A survey carried out by autism charity Treehouse found that 58 per cent of parents or carers of autistic children had been criticised by passers-by for their child's behaviour.
A total of 87 per cent felt unsupported by their community and 32 per cent reported that their child had been excluded from a recreational club or activity due to autism.
Meanwhile, more than a quarter believed that autistic children are just naughty and only 14 per cent are aware that 1 in 100 children have autism.
Jolanta Lasota, chief executive of Treehouse, said: "The low level of public understanding is causing families to feel self-conscious, isolated and judged. We know that some families even avoid going to public places.
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