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10 Years of SPARK
10 Years of SPARK

Understanding Autism

Join a growing community of families, autistic adults, and researchers working to understand autism and improve lives.

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WHY JOIN SPARK

  • You’ll be part of the largest autism research community
  • It’s simple and free
  • SPARK is a long-term study that will provide answers to research questions for years to come
  • Together we can advance the understanding of autism
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Who Can Join

  • SPARK is for all individuals living in the U.S. with a professional diagnosis of autism and their family members
  • All ages are welcome

How to Join

  • Create an account online
  • Agree to share data and genetic information
  • Registration takes about 20 minutes

What Participation Means

  • Participation is online and free
  • Your information will be kept private and secure
  • Answer questions about your autism experience
  • Return your saliva kit if you agree to genetic research
  • Learn about additional research opportunities
New to SPARK? Learn more.
Already a participant? Visit your personal SPARK Dashboard.

MEET OUR PARTICIPANTS

How Does Raising an Autistic Child Affect a Couple’s Relationship?
How Does Raising an Autistic Child Affect a Couple’s Relationship?

Are parents of an autistic child more like to split up or be dissatisfied with their relationship? Find out what research has to say.

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Making Back to School Easier for Students with Autism and Their Families
Making Back to School Easier for Students with Autism and Their Families

How can families make the back-to-school transition easier for autistic youth — and themselves? Professionals and parents shared their tips.

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Water Safety Tips for Children with Autism
Water Safety Tips for Children with Autism

Children and teens with autism are three times more likely to drown than youth who don't have autism. How can we lower the risk? Here are tips from experts, parents, and autistic adults.

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WEBINARS

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Upcoming
Linnea Lampinen

Linnea Lampinen

Webinar: Understanding Strengths and Talents in Autistic Adults-Insights from Research

August 25, 2026

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Stuart Spielman, Esq.

Stuart Spielman, Esq.

Webinar: Planning for the Future-How ABLE Accounts and the Disabled Adult Child Benefit Can Make a Difference

July 22, 2026

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CONTACT US