This handbook provides information on autism to enable Colorado parents and educators to recognize early symptoms in young children and to provide for early intervention. Sections of the booklet address: (1) the importance of early intervention; (2) early indicators for screening children ages birth through 60 months, including difficulties in sensory-motor skills, speech-language skills, and social skills; (3) screening for the very young; (4) the identification process; (5) characteristics of autism disorder; (6) the federal definition of autism; (7) Colorado eligibility criteria for autism; (8) the educational process for identification and individual program planning; (9) elements of effective programs; (10) common misconceptions about autism; (11) facts about autism; (12) guidelines for evaluating treatments for autism; (13) questions for parents to ask regarding specific treatment; (14) components of evaluation for autism; and (15) competencies of Colorado Regional Autism Specialists. (CR)