As a court hears arguments from two Oregon families that thimerosal, once widely used in childhood vaccines, does in fact trigger autism, what if you're already living with an autistic child?

Autism can seem "hidden" because it's often hard to recognize the signs and symptoms. But for parents of autistic children, the challenges go far beyond discovering the disease. The CDC has estimated that one in 150 babies born in 2007 will eventually be diagnosed with autism. For these children and their families, every day will be different—many days will be difficult. They'll face issues like getting along with siblings, fitting in at school and simply staying safe and healthy.

It's hard to find an easy day, and it's even harder to find time for yourself. Perhaps the best thing to do is learn from parents who have been through it, so help is here with the iVillage community. For new parents and experienced parents, it's about sharing advice and experience.

Member lahartk's advice, offered on an autism spectrum disorders message board is "to love your son through any challenge he has with autism. Validate his feelings. Give him resources...allow him to explore positive solutions."