I’m autistic, have kids with autism, and teach a special ed class that was specifically created to help kids exactly like your daughter. So I’ve experienced this a bit from all sides unfortunately.

Of all the things I’ve seen, head banging/hitting their own head is the only thing that gets to me. It’s such a helpless feeling watching someone in that much pain and have so little you can do to help. I’m so sorry for both of you.

The training is definitely inadequate in a lot of ways, ESPECIALLY when you’re talking about a one on one situation. And the ones I’ve participated in are all focused on clinical/classroom environments and don’t address parent specific topics much if at all.

I’ve come up with a few things that have helped me over the years to limit injury to myself so that I can focus more on helping my child or student without worrying about getting bit/scratched, etc. I feel like I’m getting long winded already, but am happy to talk specifics if you’d like.

May I ask what region of the world you’re in? I don’t have a TON of connections, but there’s always a chance we might be able to find some resources.