The Birds and Bees: A pilot study of a parent-mediated sexuality education program for preteens and teens on the Autism Spectrum

PI: Lindsey DeVries, PhD and Co-PI: Caitlin Middleton, PhD

Youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience challenges navigating puberty, sexuality, and relationship changes that take place in adolescence. Parents of preteens and teens with ASD frequently feel ill-equipped to provide proactive teaching and support to their child around puberty, caring for changing bodies, sexuality, and relationships.

To date, there are very few interventions and supports that provide specific information and resources for parents in supporting their autistic children through puberty and adolescence. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the feasibility and initial efficacy of the Birds and Bees Program, a parent-mediated sexual and reproductive health program for youth with ASD.

Interested parents can call 720-777-6630 to get on the list for Birds and Bees.

This project is funded by the Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health (AIR-P). The project is working on COMIRB approval. Birds & Bees Flyer