Caregiver Skills Training Program
Learn the skills you need to support your child’s growth and development.
Around the world, many children with autism and other developmental disabilities lack access to quality care and interventions. To help these families, the World Health Organization (WHO), with support from Autism Speaks, developed the Caregiver Skills Training (CST) for Families of Children with Developmental Delays or Disabilities.
At no cost to families, the evidence-based CST program teaches parents and caregivers the day-to-day skills they need to help their children reach their full potential. Caregivers are taught to use everyday play and home routines as opportunities to build their child’s communication, engagement, positive behavior and daily living skills.
Parents and caregivers also learn essential problem solving and self-care skills to build confidence, reduce stress and improve their overall well-being—all while learning how to better support their children.
WHO eCST Platform
Experience the CST program in a virtual, interactive, self-paced learning environment. Through the eCST platform, you will access pre-recorded courses, videos, quizzes, prompts and other digital materials to learn CST techniques right at home.
Sign up now
Learn more about the Caregiver Skills Training Program
One day at a time: Tania and Valeria’s journey with CST
Tania shares her experiences as an autistic mom raising a nonverbal child and how CST has given her practical tools to support Valeria’s growth.
Read the Q&A with Tania
CST was a turning point for Murki and her son, Kibur
After her son's diagnosis, Mukri signed up for the Caregiver Skills Training program where she learned how to play with her son, manage his challenging behaviors, and manage her own emotions.
Read how CST helped her advocate and be a voice for Kibur
Autism Speaks helps bring WHO Caregiver Skills Training to families across China
This national effort is being led by the Chinese Ministry of Health and the Chinese Association for Maternal and Child Health Studies in partnership with Autism Speaks and the World Health Organization (WHO).
Learn more about CST in China
Contact Congress about the Autism Family Caregivers Act
This bill would award grants to caregiver skills training organizations across the United States, supporting innovative approaches to improving the health and well-being of autistic children.
Email your legislators