Autism Spectrum Disorder Books

Book SynopsisYoung people with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) can often find the step into adulthood and independence more difficult than their neurotypical peers, particularly where employment is concerned. The authors show, however, that with the right guidance and a positive attitude in schools, young people with ASDs can be every bit as happy and successful as those who are not on the spectrum.The book describes a programme developed over a number of years by teachers at a school for young people with ASDs, which successfully enabled autistic pupils to achieve their full potential. The authors explain in detail the challenges faced by the young people at the school, and show how, encouraged by a culture of optimism and hopefulness, the programme developed their confidence and skills, with the result that many of them are now in employment. The book also provides an in-depth exploration of a multitude of styles and techniques for building relationships. Concluding with a reflection on leadership and organisational culture, the authors demonstrate that if the approach is adopted by an entire school and not just a handful of teachers, it really can work.This inspiring and innovative book will be a must for educators at every level, psychologists, academics, and anybody else interested in a positive educational approach that will enable young people with ASDs to get the most out of life.Trade ReviewSo often books describing an educational method or philosophy can seem divorced from the real world of the schoolroom and the school office, with the day-to-day procedures, staffing difficulties and petty bureaucracy involved. This title comes as an exception to that rule, chronicling the "transformation" experienced by a group of students on the autism spectrum, and the teachers and staff in their special school, as a result of making major changes to their way of working. These changes were based firmly on what the latest research has revealed about learners with autism, but you get a sense of how hard it is to turn around school cultures alongside the engaging descriptions of students and their development. The authors are highly experienced practitioners with a wealth of expertise in understanding and managing behaviour problems and challenges to learning. This shows through in their descriptions of the hard work involved in this process of change... Interestingly, past receipt of speech and language therapy emerged as an importantfactor in later progress, something that should be highlighted in an era of cuts that have affected this already hard-to-access specialty. In sum, educators will find the attitudes, enthusiasm and practices described by these authors worth emulating. -- Educational Review"Transition or Transformation?: Helping Young People With Autistic Spectrum Disorder Set Out on a Hopeful Road Towards Their Adult Lives" reveals a program developed by teachers concerned with helping autistic spectrum kids make the transition into adulthood, and is a 'must' for any health or educator's collection dealing with these kids. It explores styles for building relationships at school, explains how the program fosters social skills that continue into successful employment and social interactions outside the classroom, and addresses the need for a whole-school approach to helping autistic children integrate into the classroom -- The Midwest Book ReviewThrough case studies and descriptions of 'ecological' approaches they show us how to do that difficult thing: link autism 'theory' to practice. Tbook shows in detail how to:* get the 'relationship style' right* build an autism specific curriculum* promote well-being in young people with autism spectrum condition.The book has at its core the belief that people with autism can, and the people who will get most out of this book are those who share that belief. -- Learning Disability todayWithin a school culture of optimism and hope, the program can develop students's confidence and skills in building day-to-day relationships in adulthood. Student stories and staff perspectives accompany techniques for visual support for communication, developing a reflective self, body basics and massage, and reward and punishment. Appendices provide sample staff training materials, and a 25-page paper on the role of educational placement and parents on the school performance of children with ASD. -- Reference & Research Book NewsTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Introduction. 1. Student Stories. 2. The Staff Perspective. 3. An Understanding of Autism. 4. Ethos, Practice and Curriculum. 5. The Relationship Style. 6. Relationship Techniques - Visual Supports for Communication. 7. Relationship Techniques - Developing a Reflective Self. 8. Relationship Techniques - Body Basics and Massage. 9. Relationship Techniques - Reward, Punishment and a Culture of Celebration. 10. Transition or Transformation? 11. Organisational Supports. Appendix I. Sample Staff Training Materials. Appendix II. The Role of Educational Placement, Education Provision, and Parents on the School Performance of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (Phil Reed, Lisa A. Osborne and Emma Waddington, Swansea University).

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Book SynopsisGetting to Grips with Asperger Syndrome is a practical, problem-solving guide for those caring for or supporting an adult with Asperger Syndrome (AS). It will help them understand the condition and the difficulties it may cause, so that they can offer support in the most beneficial way.The book explains what AS is and why certain behaviours frequently occur: such as anxiety, fear of change and unusual sensitivities. Once behaviours and reactions are understood, many of the apparent problems become less troublesome, and difficulties can be avoided or easily-resolved. Practical strategies are offered to combat problems that may arise, and common issues that specifically occur with individuals diagnosed later in life are addressed.Easy-to-read and accessible, this book is a useful reference for friends and family of individuals with AS, as well as health and social care staff and students, whatever the level of training and experience.Trade ReviewThe success of this book is truly in the author's ability to convey in each chapter what Asperger Syndrome may look like on a day to day basis... In a remarkable way, the author is describing and illustrating the most insignificant and potentially trivial daily issues all of us encounter by through the eyes of the individual with Asperger Syndrome which transform these circumstances and situations into a true and rather different challenge... The book would be very useful and helpful to parents and other family members, educators and Para-professionals. A very well written, easy to read and rooted in reality exposure book that sheds light on the population of adults with AS which at times get forgotten. -- Journal of Autism Developmental DisordersTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. What is Asperger Syndrome? 2. Differential Diagnosis. 3. Memory, Attention and Understanding. 4. Practical Difficulties and Everyday Tasks. 5. Language and Conversation. 6. Social Rules and Relationships. 7. Problem-solving and Coping with Change. 8. Coping with Anxiety and Other Emotions. 9. Obsessional Interests and Other Common Characteristics. 10. Needs and Service Development. Further Reading. Index

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Book SynopsisIntensive interaction is a valuable approach, with the potential to radically enhance the well-being of difficult-to-reach individuals, such as those with profound and severe learning disabilities, autistic spectrum conditions and emotional problems. This highly accessible book will help families and professionals develop a deeper understanding of this highly-successful approach and its associated issues, resulting in improved communication opportunities within a variety of care, therapeutic and educational settings.This compendium offers a multidisciplinary perspective to intensive interaction, bringing together the authors' experience and research from different disciplines. A glossary format and thematic structure are employed to enable readers to quickly access topics of interest, and gradually build on their understanding of the approach. Each chapter is devoted to an over-arching concept - including psychological theories of human behaviour, relationship building and maintenance and social inclusion - and illustrated with case studies to support theoretical assertions and offer practical examples of useful techniques.A useful reference and reflective tool, this book will interest both family and professional carers, support staff, special education teachers, learning disability nurses, social services practitioners, speech and language therapists, clinical psychologists, occupational therapists, or anyone who is interested in intensive interaction and wants to learn more.Trade ReviewThis is a helpful little introduction to an approach that provides a way to enrich the lives of many individuals with ASD and severe learning difficulties through making their communication with others more enjoyable. It addresses an important and neglected aspect of the everyday lives of many with ASD. -- Journal of Autism and Developmental DisordersFor a speech and language therapist working with adults with learning disabilities it provides useful, informative and searching discussions on where intensive interaction fits in our scope of practice, and challenges the boundaries and constraints of a conventional therapy model. Throughout, the authors provide case studies to illustrate challenges they have experience in implementing Intensive Interaction and how they have attempted to overcome these. They provide practical and useful suggestions including how to support carers and other professionals. Particularly useful is the discussion about setting up Intensive Interaction and the additional support needed at a management and strategic level. This book goes some way to support practitioners to develop a 'culture' of Intensive Interaction and leaves the reader feeling empowered to put ideas into practice. -- Speech & Language Therapy in Practice, Rebecca Finn, Speech & Language Therapist working with adults with learning disabilitiesThis book would be useful to anyone with an interest in intensive interaction, from professionals (such as occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, psychologists, nurses, social workers) through to care/support staff and families. It is also a useful resource for managers thinking about supporting teams to adopt this approach in practice. The book gives a thorough definition of what intensive interaction is. As the authors have broad clinical experience, intensive interaction is described from the viewpoint of each, clearly highlighting how this technique can be used for a variety of purposes (from education, therapeutic, social inclusion and of course, communication)...The authors cover a range of really practical issues when using this approach (including expectations, goal setting, what if it doesn't work initially, whether to schedule/structure intensive interaction sessions, and how to know if its working). The importance of disseminating an individuals' intensive interaction techniques, and what engagement/interaction might look like are highlighted, with systems suggested for communicating this within staff teams... Environmental considerations (physical, social, and political are discussed ) and support the reader to consider the environment in which they are attempting this approach, and how to maximise the impact of any intensive interaction intervention. This really highlights the importance of the 'bigger picture' when embarking on this approach with our clients... If you have an interest in intensive interaction, then this is a very good resource. I found that it covered a broad range of topics, dealing with the strengths as well as the challenges of using this approach, both on a basic level, but also thinking of service and wider political agendas within the systems we work in... I really enjoyed reading this book, and feel much more informed about this approach, which increases my confidence both in using it, and in suggesting its benefits to others. I would certainly recommend this resource to others. It really highlights the importance of making relationships with people who find it difficult to be with and relate to others, enabling these people to experience the benefits of being connected to another person (being acknowledged, valued, and listened to). The book is informative, and covers the topic from a range of professional and person backgrounds, exploring the challenges and strengths of this approach. There is an extensive list of further reading and useful websites which guides the reader to continue learning and developing their approach. -- COTSS PLD NewsletterTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. What is Intensive Interaction? 2. Issues Associated with Personal Characteristics. 3. Issues Associated with Social Inclusion (Being with Someone). 4. Issues Associated with Human Communication. 5. Relationship Building and Maintenance. 6. Issues Associated with Human Learning (Developmental Issues). 7. Some Psychological Theories of Human Behaviour. 8. Some Psychological Concepts. 9. Some Issues Associated with the Practicalities of Approach Use. 10. Creating an Interactive Environment. 11. Issues Associated with the Socio-Political Environment. 12. Issues Associated with Approach Development and Dissemination.

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Book SynopsisParents have been reporting a connection between autism and diet for decades, but for many years the science behind the connection was evasive. Today, we see a growing body of research to back up parental-reported evidence that certain foods and other environmental sources can affect the developing brains of some children, and trigger adverse behavioural episodes. Written by an autism expert who has witnessed in her own child the dramatic improvement that can be made through dietary intervention, this book offers an 'easily digestible' guide to the science behind the considerations; strategies for implementing a safe diet; a handy list of ingredients to be avoided; as well as a concise bank of essential resources and useful contacts.This book offers an accessibly concise guide to all aspects of dietary invention in children with autism, and is an ideal resource for parents, teachers and any other family member or caregiver who needs to know how to help implement a safe and healthy diet for an autistic child.Trade ReviewIf anyone should know about treating autism with diet it is Rosemary Keswick... The mother of a now adult son with autism, Rosemary is a former CEO of Allergy Induced Autism, one of the charities that championed the early use of gluten and casein-free diet in autism. Her two short and very accessible books form an excellent introduction to the subject for anyone caring for a child or adult with autism who also has (as a significant number have) serious gastrointestinal problems. -- Foods MatterTable of ContentsIntroduction. Chapter 1. What is the Autistic Spectrum? Chapter 2. The History of Dietary Intervention in Autism. Chapter 3. A Whistle-stop Guide to the Science Behind the Interventions. Chapter 4. Back to Basics. Chapter 5. The Offending Food Pyramid. Chapter 6. School Essentials. Chapter 7. Essentials for Teachers andTherapists. Chapter 8. Cautionary Tales. Chapter 9. Case Study. Chapter 10. What You Need to know about Ingredients. Resources. Appendix - Health Care Plan. Suggested Further Reading. The Last Word. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisChildren on the autistic spectrum frequently suffer from gastrointestinal complaints such as diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain, abdominal distension and flatulence. Far from being 'just part of the condition', worldwide research is confirming parents' reports that many of these children are actually suffering from serious underlying conditions which, if left untreated, are a source of constant pain, which in turn can greatly exacerbate autistic behavioural symptoms.Autism and Gastrointestinal Complaints summarises the symptoms often experienced and offers an accessible explanation of the underlying medical condition, together with practical suggestions as to how to help reduce the child's suffering. The findings of the latest research are presented in an understandable way, with a glossary explaining some of the terms often used by medics in plain language.This book offers a concise guide to all aspects of gastrointestinal complaints in children with autism, and is an ideal resource for parents, teachers and any other family member or caregiver who needs to know how to help an autistic child.Trade ReviewIf anyone should know about treating autism with diet it is Rosemary Keswick... The mother of a now adult son with autism, Rosemary is a former CEO of Allergy Induced Autism, one of the charities that championed the early use of gluten and casein-free diet in autism. Her two short and very accessible books form an excellent introduction to the subject for anyone caring for a child or adult with autism who also has (as a significant number have) serious gastrointestinal problems. -- Foods MatterTable of ContentsIntroduction. Chapter 1. Understanding Gastrointestinal Complaints in Individuals with Autism. Chapter 2. How You Can Help – 5 Steps to Success. Chapter 3. Case Histories. Chapter 4. Treatment of Gastrointestinal Complaints. Chapter 5. Resources. Glossary. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis professional text covers every aspect of Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD), from science to services, from the most disabling Kanner's syndrome to the most high-functioning Asperger syndrome, and from birth to old age. The book contains the latest research on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, intervention and support of individuals with ASD, and examines their implications at various stages of life. A wide range of neurological, genetic, psychological, developmental, social, and emotional issues are covered, and the author also includes less accessible information on the diagnosis and treatment of associated psychiatric and medical conditions, the overlap between the ASDs and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and the management of behavioural and forensic problems. The author does not presume existing technical knowledge and the background to new methods of assessment, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging, standardized clinical and psychological assessment, and genetic testing, is explained.This book will be an indispensable primary resource for paediatricians, psychiatrists, clinical and educational psychologists, specialist nurses, counsellors, psychotherapists, legal professionals and others working with individuals of all ages who are on the autism spectrum. It will also be of interest to any carers and people with an ASD who want to know about the up to date research into the causes and treatment of the disorder.Trade ReviewDigby Tantam provides the reader with a well-researched, objective summary of the neurophysiological, genetic and psychosocial theoretical aspects of autism spectrum disorder... A detailed picture of the complexities and difficulties associated with partialling out diorders is outlined, facilitating clinical practice and appropriate treatment plans..well-written book... I would highly recommend this book for anyone who wishes to have a comprehensive overview of autism spectrum disorders. -- Irish Journal of Medical ScienceThese consideration by Tantam are just a taste of the overall mood that flows through the entire book, his insight and compassion towards people with ASD who struggle every day, recognising that this may be considered an asset... unquestionably an essential resource for all professionals who work with people with an ASD... indispensable reference for students and professionals such as paediatricians, psychiatrists, clinical and educational psychologists, as well as many other professionals working with individuals of all ages with autism... I would recommend this book to anyone, including carers or people with ASD who want to know about the most recent research into the etilogy, treatment and presentation of these disorder. -- Annali, Dell'Istituto Supreiore di SanitaIf you only acquire one book on autism, then this should be the one. Digby Tantam is an international expert in the field of autism spectrum disorders and what he does not know about the subject is not worth knowing... Covering all the latest thinking and knowledge with regards to autism, this is a formidable and satisfying read. -- Nursing StandardThis substantial textbook brings together all the latest research and clinical practice in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of individuals with autistic spectrum disorders... This book is impressive in its scope. -- SEN MagazineAny reasonably educated and determined parent who wishes to gain a better understanding of their child or themselves, a more holistic view of past and present theories would gain from reading this book. .. I probably enjoyed this book more than any other I have read specifically on autism due to the brain research. It is the Ramachandran, the Oliver Sachs of the autism world - a book for academics but also accessible to the educated and determined parent. -- asteensDigby Tantam has worked with people with autism spectrum conditions for over 30 years. This experience has made him aware of the remarkable variations in the clinical pictures to be found in people on the spectrum. To take just one aspect, they can vary from those with severe or profound learning disability right up to those of remarkably high ability, even genius level, in specific areas. However, the author emphasises that they all share a major problem affecting non-verbal communication. This type of communication he considers essential for the "unconscious link between people". Is this the basis of the social instinct?The author discusses in detail, but with great clarity, what is known of the physical, neurological and genetic findings in people with autism spectrum conditions, and the developmental, social and emotional factors, including changes with age, that have an equally important effect upon the clinical picture. He also discusses the prevalence and methods of treatment.This fascinating, and intriguing analysis of the remarkably diverse picture to be found in autism spectrum conditions makes this book especially unusual in the published literature of the field, and essential reading for both professionals and parents. -- Dr Lorna Wing, Consultant to the NAS Lorna Wing Centre for AutismThis is a unique and timely contribution to the literature on autism. The National Autistic Society of the UK will be 50 years old in 2012. Many of the children who attended its first school are now approaching old age.In this astonishingly comprehensive and well researched book on autism through the lifespan, Digby Tantam's long and eminent career as a leading academic, researcher and clinician is evident throughout. His thorough examination of the science and the various theories of autism is matched by an engaging and straightforward style that makes even the most complex aspects accessible. His use of case examples also reveals a deep understanding of the true nature of autism - empathy for 'autistic thinking' and recognition of the 'strengths' of autism juxtaposed with recognition of the very real difficulties that may be present. Respect for difference and diversity is noticeably informed by research and a solid first hand clinical background and experience. It is consequently unsentimental, wise and practical.Due to the breadth and depth of this book I would recommend it as an investment that will be invaluable not just for academics, clinicians and researchers but a much wider readership that will include the autistic community and those who support them. -- Richard Mills, Director of Research, The National Autistic Society UK and Research Director, Research Autism, LondonThis authoritative, comprehensive textbook by Professor Tantam, an internationally recognized expert, provides an overview of Autistic Disorder ranging from an historical perspective to our current knowledge of its clinical presentation, life course, underlying pathology, etiology, and treatment. It fills a void in the literature, and I predict it will become "the standard reference" for students, clinicians, and researchers working with Autistic Disorder. -- Edward R. Ritvo, MD, Professor Emeritus, UCLA School of MedicineThis is probably the most comprehensive and wide ranging book on ASD I have ever read. It is an extraordinarily rich mine of information from neurobiology to treatment, and from infancy to adulthood. 'No stone is left unturned'. An original and perhaps controversial feature is the highlighting of links between ASD and ADHD. -- Professor Margot Prior AO, FASSA, FAPS, Department of Psychology, University of Melbourne, AustraliaTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Preface. Why this book. Plan of the book. Stigma. Biological vs. experiential. Limits. Introduction. Future enlargement of the ASDs. The challenge of the ASDs for all mental health professionals. Challenge, and opportunity. Coverage of the book. The brain and developmental disorders. ADHD. Swedenborg's hypothesis. Could some kinds of ASD be purely psychogenic? Emotional isolation caused by ASD. Can experience sculpt the brain? Epigenesis and learning. The limits of neuroimaging. How clinically useful is a study of the brain? Networks. Emergent properties. Neurodiversity. Other social considerations. Scope and plan of part 2. Part 1. Sciences basic to ASD. Chapter 1. Neurology of the superficial structures of the brain. Right hemisphere. Anatomy. Normal function. Functional effect of lesions in adulthood. Functional effect of lesions in childhood. Structural and functional changes in the ASDs. Parietal cortex. Inferior parietal lobule. Temporal cortex. Anatomy. Normal function. Structural and functional changes in the ADHD and the ASDs. Temporoparietal junction/ parietal operculum. Frontal and prefrontal cortex. Prefrontal cortex. Chapter 2. The cerebellum, and deep structures in the fore-brain. Cerebellum. Anatomy. Function. Functional effect of lesions in animals. Functional effect of lesions in childhood. Structural and functional changes in the ASDs and related conditions. Amygdalae. Anatomy. Function. Functional effect of lesions in animals. Functional effect of lesions in adulthood. Functional effect of lesions in childhood. Structure and function in the ASDs. Cingulate. Anatomy. Function. Functional effect of lesions in adulthood. Structural and functional changes in the ASDs. Insula. Anatomy. Function. Functional effect of lesions in adulthood. Structural and functional changes in the ASDs. Fusiform gyrus. Anatomy. Function. Functional effect of lesions in adulthood. Structural and functional changes in the ASDs. Chapter 3. Interactions in genes and neurons. Single nucleotide polymorphisms. Copy number variants. Haplo-sufficiency. Imprinting and expression. Epigenetic variation. Tandem repeats. Where we are now. Local area networks: minicolumns. Anatomy. Normal function. Working memory networks. Functional networks and fibre tracts. Anatomy. Normal function. Functional effect of lesions in childhood. Functional effect of lesions in adulthood. Structural and functional changes in the ASDs. Functional aggregates, modules, or systems. The default network. Normal anatomy. Normal function. Functional impairment in default network in ASD and ADHD. The anti-correlated, task focussed network. Attention disorders and the anti-correlated networks. Functional disorders of anti-correlated networks and the ASDs. Chapter 4. Developmental, social and emotional considerations. Social factors. In determining whether or not there is a disorder. Advantages to society in ASD and ADHD. Socioeconomic factors and ASD. Ethnic factors and ASD. Social factors affecting the symptom profile of ASD. Social dominance, power and authority. Anger, aggression, and violence. Social factors affecting the quality of life of people with ASD. Cultural factors. The construction of deviant identities. Cultural explanations of the causes of ASD. Normalization. Deviancy theory. Adopting a pathological identity. Acquiring an identity. Family interaction. Chapter 5. Social orientation, communication, and language. Social orientation. Eye orientation. Gaze following. Inference from gaze or movement direction. Imitation. Relevance to ASD. Chunking. Relevance to ASD. Communication. Classical approaches to communication. Linguistics. Digital communication. Design features of a language. The medium and the message. Combinatorial approaches to communication. Two fundamental types of communication. Anatomical approaches to communication. Language, speech, and writing. Anatomy. Development. Normal function. Impairment: speech and language disorder. Developmental speech and language disorder. Articulation disorders. Speech dyspraxia ('phonological disorder'). Phonological disorders. Speech reading and writing impairment (dyslexia). Relation to ASD. Receptive language disorders ('specific language impairment'). Prevalence of types of speech and language disorders. Management of speech and language disorders. Chapter 6. Nonverbal communication, empathy and theory of mind. Nonverbal communication. Are all nonverbal communication channels affected in ASD? Orienting attention, salience and interpersonal communication. Recognition of emotional expression. Empathy. Affective empathy. Emotional contagion. Emotional contagion and ASD. Emotional contagion and affective empathy. Self-recognition. Self and other judgements in ASD. Modulating affective empathy. Cognitive empathy. Theory of mind. When theory of mind and empathy conflict. Empathy has to be merited. Empathy modulation. Implications for ASD. Chapter 7. Neuropsychology of ASD. Introduction. Intelligence. Testing. Relation to ASD. Memory. Testing. Relation to ASD. Executive function. Relation to ASD. Working memory. Inhibition of prepotent responses. Attention shifting and attentional maintenance. Repetition and pursuit of sameness: tics, stereotypies, obsessions and compulsions. Motor coordination and topographical orientation. Ataxia. Dystonias and dyskinesias. Dyspraxia. Topographical disorientation. Part 2. Clinical aspects of ASD. Chapter 8. The autistic syndrome. Case history. Differentiating developmental disorder and mental illness. Diagnostic criteria. Setting the scene. Historical preoccupation with language. Practically useful criteria for ASD. External validity of an ASD diagnosis. Autistic syndrome. Dimensions of disorder in ASD. Early recognition of the autistic syndrome. Screening for the autistic syndrome. Red flags. Is screening currently worthwhile? Surveillance. Differential diagnosis. Investigation. Chapter 9. Presentation, prevalence, treatment, and course of the autism spectrum disorders. Presenting symptoms of the ASDs. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Language impairment. Prevalence. Rates of ASD. Rates of specific AS sub-types. Rates of ADHD. Rates in different age groups. Gender differences in rates. Has there been an increase in prevalence? Treatment. Diagnosis. Information. Training. Early intervention. Focussed remediation. Psychoeducation. Dealing with anxiety. Enablement. Sensory integration. Medication. Other interventions that are mentioned in later chapters. Course. False assumptions about course. Social disability does not affect quality of life. Quality of life in people with ASD and their carers. Burden. Conclusions . Chapter 10. Clinical assessment of the ASDs. The goal of clinical assessment. Guidelines. Who makes the diagnosis? The setting for the diagnosis. History taking. Developmental history. Other aspects of family history taking. Structured observation and examination. Nonverbal expression. Nonverbal interpretation. Speech and language. Assessing co-morbidity, associated conditions, social responses, and personal reactions. Prosocial competence. Cognitive style. Specific developmental syndromes. Temperament. Assessment of co-morbid disorder. Psychiatric disorder in the context of ASD. Intellectual disability. Family or relationship factors. Physical assessment. Sleep problems. Impact on sleep of co-morbid disorders. Chapter 11. Aetiology of the autism spectrum disorders. Introduction. Factors present at conception. Biological sex. Heritability. Genetic causes of ASD. Intra-uterine factors. Maternal stress. Placental insufficiency. Hormones and brain development. Infections. Teratology. Perinatal factors. Neonatal jaundice. Postnatal factors. Psychological events. Postnatal conditions having a recognized predilection for the brain. Chapter 12. Presentation in infancy and early childhood (the pre-school years). Relevant developmental challenges. First suspicions of ASD. Red flags. Diagnostic criteria. Illustrative case history. Presenting symptoms. Primary handicap. Secondary impairments. Tertiary disability. Differential diagnosis and associated conditions. Speech and language disorder. Hyperlexia. Attachment disorder. Distinction from intellectual disability. Recognized syndromes associated with ASD often presenting in infancy. Elimination diets. Facilitating collaboration between healthcare providers and carers. Treatment. Issues. Chapter 13. Presentation of Asperger syndrome in middle childhood. Relevant developmental challenges. Play and socializing with peers. Learning challenges. Social demand. First suspicions of ASDs presenting in middle childhood. Asperger syndrome presenting in middle childhood. Red flags of Asperger syndrome presenting in middle childhood. Red flags for ASD. Screening. Illustrative case history Asperger syndrome presenting in middle childhood. Presenting symptoms Asperger syndrome presenting in middle childhood. Primary handicap. Secondary impairments in AS presenting in middle childhood. Tertiary disability Asperger syndrome presenting in middle childhood. Differential diagnosis Asperger syndrome presenting in middle childhood. Obsessive compulsive disorder. Sensitivity. Schizophrenia. Other associated conditions. Causes of ASD. Multidisciplinary involvement. Teacher. Speech and language therapist. Educational psychologist. Paediatrician. Child and adolescent psychiatry team member. Child psychotherapist. Investigations. Intervention. Home-based. Health services. School based. Child-based. Chapter 14. Presentation of Kanner syndrome in middle childhood. Kanner's syndrome in the context of learning disability. Red flags of Kanner syndrome in the context of learning disability. Diagnostic criteria of Kanner syndrome in the context of learning disability. Illustrative case history of Kanner syndrome in the context of learning disability. Presenting symptoms of Kanner syndrome. Tertiary disability. Investigations. Intervention. Issues. Chapter 15. Presentation of Asperger syndrome in later childhood and adolescence. Relevant developmental challenges. Agency. Identity. Presenting symptoms. Primary handicap. Secondary impairments. Tertiary disability. Diagnosis. Differential diagnosis. Differential diagnosis of communicative disorder. Differential diagnosis of repetitive behaviour. Differential diagnosis of social impairment. Associated problems. Investigations. Management. The primary handicap. Secondary handicap. Tertiary handicap. Issues. Normalization and mainstream education. Chapter 16. Presentation of atypical Asperger syndrome, often with ADHD, in late childhood and adolescence (secondary school and college). Relevant developmental challenges. Belonging, giving, and taking. Self-control. Who are the atypical group? Red flags. Screening. Illustrative case history. Diagnosis. Presenting symptoms. Primary handicap. Differential diagnosis. Associated problems. Aetiology. Investigations. Treatment. Issues. Victimization. Chapter 17. The presentation and consequences of Asperger syndrome in adulthood. Challenges in assessing adults. Relevant developmental challenges. Asperger syndrome in adulthood. Illustrative case history. Illustrative case history of a woman. Gender differences. Presenting symptoms. Differential diagnosis. Associated problems. Aetiology. Investigations. Intervention. Issues. Appendix 1. Ethics and ASD. Appendix 2. An example of a pre-interview questionnaire. Subject Index. Author Index.

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Book SynopsisAs society becomes progressively dominated by an ideology of healthy living, Matt Edmonds makes a vital critique of contemporary efforts to remove 'disability' from the world around us. Surveying the logic and language of both secular and religious health movements, Edmonds highlights the misplaced generalisations and dubious values that cumulatively serve to undermine individual inclusion and well-being on a day-to-day basis. 'A Theological Diagnosis' seeks a new direction. From the resources of Christian theology it finds a paradigm with which to examine the infections of genetic theory, faith healing and the meaning of 'disability' so as to prescribe a way forward for both believer and non-believer alike. Combining history, theology and thoughtful analysis, this is a prescription that none of us can afford to ignore. Quite simply, there is little time left.Trade ReviewA superbly argued book, A Theological Diagnosis is well supported by its bibliography and indices and will be of enormous assistance to all of us living or working with disability. -- Ministry TodayThis book will be of some use to theologians, clergy and lay readers seeking new insights on disability and healing. Although written from a Christian perspective, the book is relevant to non-Christians with an interest in the ethics of genetic technologies. Edmonds' theology of healing is bold; his exploration of ethics in relation to 'faith healing' has much to offer a church that does not often critique its own approaches to health and illness. -- Disability & Society[A] historically grounded, theologically astute, and pastorally insightful book...unique in its accessibility for readers unfamiliar with more technical theological debates -- CHOICE MagazineTHIS lovely study seeks to overturn prevalent conceptions about "disability", and to offer a more loving and graceful approach to individuals with all their distinctive and varied differences. It challenges some of the all-too-prevalent assumptions made in claims for both genetic intervention in the secular world and for faith healing within many Churches. Instead, it offers an approach that the author hopes could be adopted by secular and religious people alike. -- Church TimesWell referenced and indexed this is a complex book, difficult to summarise briefly but well worth reading. -- Triple HelixThis is an important publication which should be included in bioethics, pastoral theology and ecclesiology reading lists. Most of all, it will appeal to anyone who cares that the Church be truly Christ-like and our society truly human. -- The WayAdvances in genetic technologies raise important theological questions. Edmonds (independent scholar) directs his historically grounded, theologically astute, and pastorally insightful book toward Christian communities struggling with genetic technologies' ethical and pastoral implications. The book gives a good overview of the history of genetic exploration, and of the debates over those explorations, set within a Christian theology of personhood. This theology focuses on ways that identities are formed in relationship rather than being radically autonomous, and how that relational knowledge should shape theological and ethical thinking. Among recent titles on genetics, this book is unique in its accessibility for readers unfamiliar with more technical theological debates. Large theology collections will find it a useful addition. -- CHOICE MagazineThis book has a bold intention, namely, to examine genetic therapies through alternative lenses, including not just a perspective from theological reflection but also from those who suffer disabilities. As an academic achievement this book bears the marks of its origin as an MPhil thesis. -- TheologyMatt Edmonds... produced an enormously significant book... recommended both to theologians and to those engaged in day-to-day pastoral work... One of the particular strengths of the book is setting theology at the heart of contemporary concern. -- John Gillibrand * Modern Believing *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements. An Introduction: Who Will Comfort Her? 1. Three Able Voices. 2. A Graceful 'On Behalf Of'. 3. The Genetic Revolution. 4. A Theological Diagnosis of Genetics. 5. Obstructing Healthy Critique - The Global Rise of Faith Healing. 6. The Infections of Faith Healing. 7. Beyond Scriptural Blindness - A Biblical Reflection on Faith Healing. 8. The Alternative Therapeutic of L'Arche. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis volume covers several perspectives on autism which bring together the most recent scientific views of the nature of this disorder. A number of themes organize major developments and emerging areas in autism: Cognitive and neural systems development: how autism arises in the behavior and thought of very young children. Discovering brain mechanisms underlying social and cognitive deficits in autism: how we can explain "social awkwardness" and poor language comprehension in terms of malfunctions of brain mechanisms, revealed by fMRI studies of people with autism. Integrating information about genes, brain, and biological mechanisms with behavioral evidence. Linking the science of autism with lives lived: how the new information about autism impacts people with autism and real-world considerations. Trade Review"If you’re a clinician or scientist and you want a one-stop opportunity to stay on top of the latest thought and research into the development of autism in early childhood, I suggest you read this book. The editors -Dr. Just and Dr. Pelphrey - are well-regarded experts in the field, and the contributing authors describe some fascinating and insightful work." - John Elder Robison, Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee, US Department of Health and Human Services"A truly marvelous book. This volume addresses a critically important area with outstanding contributors in cutting edge areas of research. It will be of great interest to researchers and clinicians alike." - Fred R. Volkmar, M.D., Yale University School of MedicineTable of ContentsPart 1. Lives Lived with Autism. Grandin, T., My Experience with Visual Thinking and Sensory Oversensitivity: The Need for Research on Sensory Problems. Hippler, K., Hans Asperger’s Patients Growing Up. Part 2. Brain Mechanisms and Genetic Influences. Just, M.A., Keller, T.A., Kana, R.K., A Theory of Autism Based on Frontal-Posterior Underconnectivity. Scott-Van Zeeland, A.A., Bookheimer, S., Implicit Learning and Reward Systems Deficit in Autism: A Mechanism for Social Learning Deficit? Geschwind, D.H., Autism Susceptibility Genes and Normal Variation: Connecting Genes to Brain Structure and Function. Part 3. Developmental Processes in Autism. Bryson, S.E., What Do Early Signs Tell Us about the Developmental Roots of Autism? Jones, W., Klin, A., Social Engagement in the First Two Years of life in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Part 4. Neural Systems in Social and Emotional Processes. Pelphrey, K.A., Perlman, S.B., Vander Wyk, B.C., Brain Mechanisms for Social Perception Dysfunction in Autism. Kana, R.K., Klein, C.C., Klinger, G.L., Travers, B.G., Klinger, M.R., Neural Representations of Self versus Other: Lessons from Autism. Moss, J., Wicker, B., Brain Connectivity and Emotional Processing in Autism. Part 5. Overview. Minshew, M.J., Mazefsky, C.A., Organizing Principles For Autism Research: Where Do We Go From Here?

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Book SynopsisOne of the major difficulties for children with autism is in developing communication and language. The earlier this problem is addressed, the more effectively these skills can be improved. Inspired by research and clinical practice, this book addresses communication and language development of children with autism, from teaching non-verbal communication such as pointing, to moving towards spoken language. This book champions initial intervention with children at an early stage of communication, but the many practical ideas and strategies can also be usefully applied to children of school age, if they are at an early stage of communication.First Steps in Intervention With Your Child With Autism is perfect for parents looking to understand their child better and, in turn, help improve their child's development and communication. This will also be a useful reference for all professionals working to support families with a child on the autism spectrum.Trade ReviewThis is a beautifully written book by experienced practitioners from differing professional backgrounds...It's clearly written teaching ideas will be highly valued by parents and professionals alike. Even experienced practitioners are likely to find new ideas or approaches to consider...This book will be highly valued addition to these because to its unique style in sharing theory and practice. -- Naplic NewsletterThis enjoyable, easy to read, informative book champions initial intervention with preschool children with autism. It contains many practical ideas and strategies centred around interactive play and early social communication that can also be applied to school aged children if they are at an early stage... It is good value for money for departments on a budget. -- Speech & Language Therapy in PracticeThis book offers a wealth of of strategies and will help parents to understand their child better and help them to improve their child's development and communication. This will also be useful to professionals working to support families with a child on the autism spectrum. -- CommunicationThis book is written to address one of the major difficulties children with autism face; developing social empathy. The book supports individual early intervention in order to progress early communication skills. The text provides an overview on understanding autism and guides the reader through topics such as interactive play, teaching pointing, understanding language, developing spoken language and sharing conceptual play... The book provides a lovely, gentle way of comparing typical development of childhood communication to those with a diagnosis of autism. It is very easy to read and interweaves practical activities and strategies... The book is perfect for parents looking to understand a child who has a diagnosis of autism, and ways they can help develop the child's communication. It is an appropriate text for occupational therapists and professionals that are new to working with children with autism. -- British Journal of Occupational TherapyTable of ContentsChapter 1. Introduction. Chapter 2. Developing an Understanding of Autism. Chapter 3. Taking the First Steps. Chapter 4. Interactive Play. Chapter 5. The Beginnings of Structure. Chapter 6. Teaching Pointing. Chapter 7. Understanding Language. Chapter 8. Moving Towards Spoken Language. Chapter 9. Sharing Conceptual Play. Index.

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Book SynopsisWhen we tell someone that our child is autistic, the most common response is a sad face and an apologetic look. I hate it when people say "I'm sorry to hear that".Parenting a child on the autistic spectrum can be tough at the best of times, but few books take the time to celebrate the love and laughter an autistic child can elicit in their parents and those around them. In this warm, honest and laugh-out-loud tale of bringing up Bobby, now ten, Georgina Derbyshire shares and rejoices in his 'slightly different' childhood.As she outlines momentous events in Bobby's life, from the day he decided he was a dog (continuing life as a canine for a year afterwards), to the time he catapulted an innocent shopper into a mountain of strawberries, Georgina repeatedly challenges the perception of autism as an affliction, maintaining that neurotypical people often make far less sense. Through her light-hearted and hilarious storytelling, she reveals how social codes and psychological games make the neurotypical world a very confusing place to live in, more so than ever if you happen to be a young boy with a passion for rocks, tape measures and trains. This book is a must for anybody involved in the upbringing of an autistic child, whether they are in search of a little comfort, companionship, light relief - or all three.Trade ReviewStand up for Autism by Georgina J. Derbyshire is a delightful and light-hearted book about the author's son, Bobby, who has Autism... the author takes us on the insightful journey through Bobby's life and, in doing so, helps demonstrate how Autism is something that should be celebrated and embraced... This book is strongly recommended not only to parents and families with an autistic child, but also to anyone who comes into contact with or is planning to work with such families. -- Youth in MindA book that explains stammering in a concise, accessible manner and uses the voices of children and young people to explain how it feels from their viewpoint, clears up the myths that surround it and offers a wealth of advice as to how parents, teachers and friends can help and support, is surely a real treasure. This book does all that and more. -- Red Reading Hub - Jillrbennett's Reviews of Children's Books"Stand Up for Autism" is a book written by a mother, Georgina Derbyshire, about her own experiences of having a young son with autism.... It is a readable detailed narrative of a parent's experience, not just a mother's and that experiences' meaning to other relationships in Derbyshire's life. Using examples from her life with her son, Derbyshire addresses basic questions that families/parents might themselves go through: Should I explain my child to strangers? How do I manage my autistic child on a plane? How do I get to sleep? -- Journal of Autism and Developmental DisordersDerbyshire shares humorous anecdotes, as in a chapter titled "Barking at Parents and Toddlers," and disastrous trips to the supermarket; "not my idea of fun" the author says (a runaway cart; an unsuspecting shopper in the produce aisle). She relays snippets of the amusing daily she has with her son and conveys her tale with deliberate lightness and wit. -- Publishers WeeklyTable of ContentsPreface. Introduction - Why Have I Written This Book? 1. This is Bobby. 2. Barking at Parents and Toddlers. 3. Tape Measures, Sticks and Stealing Rocks. 4. Trolley Wars and Battles with Fruit. 5. Holiday Horrors and Disastrous Days Out. 6. Sleeping is Not an Option. 7. The 'A' Word is Not Autism.

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Book SynopsisParenting a child with Asperger syndrome is never easy, and adding ADHD to the psychological mix makes life even more difficult. In this searingly honest account of bringing up her son, Luke, Jan Greenman challenges common perceptions of a 'life with labels', and recalls her family's 18 year journey to the edge and back. Writing frankly about the medical issues of Luke's early years, including the impact of MMR and Ritalin, Jan recalls how Luke's diagnoses came about, and how life at The Edge, their aptly named family home, changed as a result. She describes the causes and effects of the behaviours associated with Luke's conditions, and the impact they had on each family member, including his younger sister, Abbi. The only predictable thing about Luke is his unpredictability, and Jan also takes a light-hearted look at some of his more unusual habits and obsessions. The book includes tips and advice from Jan, Abbi, and Luke himself, and the final chapters go beyond Luke's early years to look at his life as a teenager - his solo trip to Dubai, and subsequent encounter with customs, his expulsion from school, and the inspirational Headteacher who helped him to turn his life around. Life at the Edge and Beyond is a must for anyone involved in bringing up a child with Asperger syndrome, ADHD - or both. Parents will take from the family's successes, learn from their mistakes, and realize that, no matter how close to the edge they may feel, they are never alone.Trade ReviewThis is a deeply moving and thought-provoking account of the effect that we have on our loved ones - parents, siblings and wider relatives... Seeing behaviours and acts that many of us will have done from the neutral perspective of someone else can help with our own behaviours and actions, and in particular being aware of those around us and the effect we have upon them. -- Asperger UnitedThis is the best account I have read of the impact of autism on a family. Jan, Luke and Abbi give their different perspectives on their life so far, in challenging and insightful ways. Any parent would find this book fascinating. But every teacher, social worker, policy maker should be sat down in a room and made to read it! -- Professor Richard AshcroftWritten from the mother's point of view, with excerpts from her son Luke, I found this book to be engaging, informative, humorous and sometimes outrageous...I think this book will be an enjoyable and informative experience for readers. -- Support and Training for Exceptional Parents NewsletterThis is a story of hope, and parents will come away with the knowledge that even though they may feel like their life is teetering on the edge, they are not alone... While Luke's story is definitely an original one, the struggles and feelings of being overwhelmed and out of control will be familiar to families dealing with a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The authentic voices of Greenman, Luke, and Abbi are invaluable in validating the feelings of all those living with ASD. -- Library JournalI found it fascinating to read about Luke and his family. I found the insights from Luke himself especially helpful. The book is very easy to read. It is almost like you are sitting in a room with the author and she is telling you about her life. It is always encouraging to know you are not alone. The author's honesty was incredibly refreshing. -- Tara's View on Books blogAny parent struggling with such a child will find this packed with practical tips not just from the author, but from the entire family. -- The Midwest Book ReviewTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Foreword by James Gray MP. Introduction. Part I: 1991 to 2004. 1. A Very Good Place to Start: The Beginning. 2. The Nightmare Begins. 3. Going for Broke. 4. Savour the Moment. 5. Consequence, Cause and Effect. 6. Labelling of Luke: ADHD. 7. Turn on the Light: Language Taken Literally. 8. Black and White. 9. Labelling of Luke: Aspergers Syndrome. 10. Siblings: Abbi's Chapter. 11. Friend or Foe? 12. Professionals: Just the Few. 13. Sad, Mad but Not Bad. 14. Call me Nigel. 15. Education, War and Peace. Part II: 2004. 16. The End...of Life at The Edge. Part III: 2005 to 2007. 17. Beyond The Edge. Part IV: 2007 to 2009. 18. Life at The Edge Becomes a Book! 19. Nigel Mansell, Pinstripes and Parliament. 20. Dubai: Customs and Contraband. 21. Luke Tips over the Edge of Reason. 22. Trust, Trystan and Public Speaking. 23. Keith Lemon Has the Last Word, Literally!

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Book SynopsisLeaving home and moving to college or university can be a daunting experience. In this easy-to-use book, Rosemary Martin provides guidance and invaluable advice for students on the autism spectrum as they plan for and settle into college life.Packed with straightforward methods for coping and succeeding away from home, this book focuses on the particular needs of people with Asperger Syndrome, and covers every aspect of student life - from how to get up on time for lectures, to the art of living with other people and attending to the basics of personal health care. Rosemary Martin's helpful hints encourage everyone to make the most of student life in a style that suits them and reassure the reader that going to college is a big deal for every student, regardless of whether or not they are on the autism spectrum.This cheerful and pragmatic guide is an absolute must for any student on the spectrum about to embark on a university or college education.Trade ReviewAs I am mother of a son soon to leave the nest, I found it very encouraging. -- ASTeensWhile highlighting useful information and basic practical tips, the author writes with gentle humor and insight. Top Tips for Asperger Students: How to Get the Most Out of University and College, would be beneficial for every new student. -- Penny Hastings - Foreword ReviewsTable of ContentsAbout the Authors. Acknowledgements. Foreword. 1. Introduction. 2. The Daily Routine. 3.Managing Your Time. 4. Socializing. 5. The First Week at University. 6. Feeling Good About Yourself: The Physical Stuff. 7. Feeling Good About Yourself: The Mental Stuff 8. Money Matters. 9. Getting a Job while at University. 10. All About Food and Drink. 11. Managing Your Stuff. 12. Cleanliness is next to Godliness. 13. Living accommodation. 14. Getting about. 15. Studying. 16. Getting the most out of university. 17. Expanding Your Horizons. 18. The End (but it is just the beginning). Checklist: What to Take with You to University. Budget Planner. Useful Websites. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisBeginning school is a challenging time for most young children. For those with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) the significant change this entails can be overwhelming, and everyone involved will be in need of guidance to make the transition as smooth and as stress-free as possible.This positive and practical book arms schools with a wealth of essential information, easy-to-implement strategies and photocopiable resources that will help to make early schooldays an enjoyable experience for young children on the spectrum. Constructive suggestions, such as introducing visual schedules and accommodating sensory issues, will help children with ASD to feel comfortable in school, and activities including making a 'happy scrapbook' and a home-school diary will support staff home liaison.From Home to School with Autism is essential reading for education professionals seeking to encourage and inspire greater confidence in young children with ASD as they embark on school life.Trade ReviewIt is always good to read about strategies to help teaching staff in the mainstream classroom help children on the autistic spectrum. The fact that this book is clearly set out and in larger than average hint makes it easy to dip into and find relevant information. I have enjoyed reading this book and particularly liked the Happy Scrap book idea and the helpful tips for Teaching Assistants. I also like the wide range of visual cues used throughout, given as ideas to help children with ASDs process information better. The ideas of the pupil profile book and the starting school books were really good and so beneficial too... Overall, I think the idea of the book is something that is much needed. Now we just need educational staff to take notice and implement some of these very helpful strategies. -- OAASISTo have a book that will contain a range of strategies, resources and useful suggestions to support the inclusion of a child with an ASD will do much to lessen the anxiety levels of many of these children and no doubt the teachers or Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCO) that strive to support them. From Home to School with Autism will be a vital tool for all education professionals teaching and supporting young children. -- Anna Collins, Acting Key Stage 1 SENCO and class teacher, Silverdale Primary School, Hastings, UKThe earlier these strategies can be put in place the better. As soon as a child with ASD enters school for the first time they should be exposed to the visual way of working. In my case, the child was not diagnosed until she was in Year 3, but seeing first hand the positive way in which they have worked I would definitely advocate these techniques for children of Reception age. -- Jane Barnard, Individual Needs Assistant to a girl with Asperger Syndrome, Little Ridge Community Primary School, St. Leonards-On-Sea, UKI have a sticker chart. When I do lots of work I get stickers to put on the chart and then I get prizes. I am a lot happier at school since Kay showed Mrs Goodwin how to use these things. I really wish I had these things when I first started school. -- Joshua Merrick, Pupil with AS, Red Lake Count Primary School, Hastings, UKAl-Ghani, a special educational needs teacher whose son has ASD, and Kenward, a retired specialist teacher for inclusion support, compile practical ideas to ease the transition to school and inclusive classrooms for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Their program offers a visual structured approach to the school day, incorporating scrapbooks, visual schedules, motivation boards, and symbols for various activities. Ideas are given for common situations such as preparing children for substitute teachers and holidays, and dealing with children's obsessions. -- Reference and Research Book NewsThis comprehensive, constructive information – filled resource is a title that should be on the bookshelf of anyone caring for an autistic child, either at school or at home. -- Families OnlineTable of ContentsPreface 1. Introduction. 2. First Steps. 3. The Importance of Good Communication. 4. How the Parents/Caregivers Can Help the School. Prepare a pupil profile. The pupil profile. Sample pupil profile. Home visual schedule. The 'Happy Scrap Book'. 5. The Home/School Liaison. The Starting School Book. Reinforcing consistencies. 6. Starting School Procedures. 7. Visual Support in the Classroom. 8. Supporting Transitions at Home and School. Transition Trains. 9. The 'Good Job Log Book'. 10. Disclosure: Who Needs to Know? 11. Avoiding Trouble in the Classroom. 12. Top Tips for Teaching Assistants. 13. Pictorial Narratives. School. The teacher/s. The children. Different adults. Assembly. Playtime. Wet playtimes. My peg. The toilet area. Visitors. The workstation. Lunch time (dinner time). Sharing classroom toys. The reward/treat/activity board. The 'Good Job Box'. 14. Photocopiable Resources. 15. Troubleshooting. New class. Start of day. School assemblies. Playtimes. Play/activity/choosing times. P.E. lessons/gym class. Swimming lessons. Obsessions. Staffing changes. End of term/school year. The Fire Bell (song). 16. The Final Word.

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Book SynopsisDoes your child struggle with brushing their teeth? Is it difficult to get them dressed and undressed each day? Do they struggle to understand their body's relationship to the world?This book is brimming with simple ideas, activities and exercises to address these daily challenges that young children with autism face. Easy to carry out and to fit into your routines, they will help improve a child's sense of body awareness, coordination and motor skills, and address key tasks such as eating meals and healthy sleep. There are also ideas for tackling social challenges, including playing with friends, going on holiday and staying calm at school. The final chapter of the book explains the different support professionals parents of a child with autism are likely to encounter and how each can help their child.This jargon-free book shows how occupational therapy techniques can be used to help your young child with autism to live life to the full, and will be an essential tool for parents and carers.Trade ReviewThis guide to incorporating occupational therapy techniques into routine activities combines the expertise of Jacobs, an occupational therapist, and Betts (superintendent, Boyertown Area Sch. District). It introduces readers to autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and describes how ASD can affect areas like body awareness and the senses, then presents clear, simple activities that can be performed by families throughout the course of the day to work on specific issues. VERDICT: This work is an indispensable tool for parents and caregivers seeking to improve the lives of children with autism, whether they are performing daily tasks or just having fun. -- Library JournalDebra Jacobs and her co-author Dion Betts have developed an excellent resource for families who are struggling daily in their homes with challenges related to raising a child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ...This book provides families with multiple strategies for promoting daily life activities through sensory adaptations to routines. ... I applaud this book for promoting love, happiness, and function in families. -- From the Foreword by Carol A. Just, OTD, OTR/L, Department of Occupational Therapy, Thomas Jefferson University, USAQuite often when presented with a diagnosis of ASD it is difficult for a parent or carer to know how best to help their child. This book, by Debra Jacobs and Dion Betts, not only provides a veritable cornucopia of practical suggestions and insightful advice, it goes one step further. It teaches how to reach and relate to a young child with ASD in a calm, confidant and loving way. The writers have left nothing to chance. Starting with babyhood, they show how to maximize the learning potential of every waking moment and demonstrate how this can be fun for everyone involved. This book could stand alone as a handbook for raising all children, but combined with the authors' astute insight into autism, it is a triumph of empowerment. If you follow the advice set out in its pages you will, undoubtedly, be training your child with ASD to live life to the full. -- K.I. Al-Ghani, special educational needs teacher and author of Learning About Friendship and From Home to School with AutismTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. A Note About This Book. Foreword by Carol A. Just. Introduction. 1. Body Awareness. 2. Increasing Coordination. 3. Fine Motor Skills. 4. Understanding the World Through the Senses. 5. Daily Living Skills. 6. Activities in the Home, School and Community. 7. Calming Techniques. 8. Building Capacity: Optimizing Care and Treatment.

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Book SynopsisGetting into the Game: Sports Programs for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder will help families, clinicians and coaches support children with autism in taking their first steps into sport and recreation.Participation in individual and team sports plays an important part in children's development and promotes growth in a number of areas. As well as the obvious health benefits, sport also provides the perfect backdrop to teach young people with autism about rules, strategy and teamwork – all invaluable lessons that can be applied to wider society. By detailing six of the most popular sports: cycling, ice skating, swimming, soccer, taekwondo and tennis and including the unique experiences of families of children with autism, it offers all the information, advice and support needed to help get kids with autism engaged in fun and positive sport environments. This book is an invaluable resource for parents, teachers, coaches and anyone supporting children with autism spectrum disorders in a sport or recreation environment.Trade ReviewRead in its entirety or as a handy reference, Getting into the Game offers a positive mindset and a toolkit of ideas to ensure that children with autism can engage in and love sport.'Your Autism Magazine'The author understands the challenges face by individuals with autism and the need for clear, visually-supported teaching strategies that lead to success. I'd definitely recommend this book. -- Netbuddy.co.ukWritten in a friendly voice that is readily accessible to both professionals and families, Getting into the Game offers concrete suggestions for including people with autism in sports and other physical activities. The authors clearly understand both the challenges faced by individuals with autism and the need for clear, visually-supported teaching strategies that lead to success. This is a 'must-have' book for parents, teachers, and coaches who are dedicated to the eradication of 'couch potato syndrome' as a side effect of autism! -- Dr Pat Mirenda, Professor in the Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology and Special Education, University of British ColombiaAs a gymnast with Asperger syndrome, I have had to overcome many of the issues highlighted in Getting into the Game. I was very fortunate to start gymnastics at the age of 3 and so I am testament to the fact that sport can help young people with autism spectrum disorders overcome fears and difficulties in all aspects of their lives. I would highly recommend this book to parents or teachers who have children with autism. It is full of information and advice that will help readers gain a better understanding of ASD and how to introduce and teach sport to children on the spectrum.''Philip Davis, 26, gymnast, - Special Olympics - silver medallist (Athens, 2011), former Senior and Junior British Champion (2005, 2002) and coach at the Croydon School of Gymnastics'Getting into the Game is an essential reference for any parent or professional considering the opportunities and benefits sport can bring to children with autism. Over the past two decades, I have witnessed many thousands of profoundly disabled children participate in sailing around the UK. Without exception, there are benefits to be gained for all involved in any sport; the child, the providers and the family. You don't need any special qualification to see those benefits, but it is useful to have a reference like this book that explains the process of accessing and participating in different sports. -- Geoff Holt, MBE, ex-professional yachtsman and disability sports ambassadorThis book importantly provides strategies for engaging children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other disabilities in sporting activities. It offers needed, practical information for parents, coaches, teachers and others. The reader is guided to consider sport as a means to physical fitness, community engagement and quality of life. The book is an important contribution in building 'welcoming' communities, and critically addressing under-studied opportunities in sport for persons with ASD. A highly recommended read! -- David Nicholas, associate professor, faculty of social work, University of CalgaryCanadian Sport for Life (CS4L) would like to express its support and enthusiasm for the authors' expertise in writing 'Getting into the Game - Sports Programs for Kids with Autism.' This book reflects what we believe to be the important, key messages regarding increasing the activity levels of kids. We believe this work assists the way professionals lead and deliver sport and physical activity in Canada and other nations, and will contribute to its overall improvement, resulting in a healthier population. -- Richard Way, Project Lead, Canadian Sport for LifeTable of ContentsPreface. Part 1. Active Engagement in Sport: The Basics on How and Why to Get Started. 1. Why Participating in Sports is Great for Individuals with ASD. 2. Choosing a Sport. 3. Working with Your Coach. 4. Supports and Strategies for Learning in Sport. 5. Learning Supports for Children with ASD. 6. Keeping Everyone Organized and Motivated: Strategies for Encouraging Volunteer Engagement. Part 2. Sports for New Athletes with ASD: Basic Skills, Strategies and On-going Adapted Programs. 7. Bike Riding – Getting on the Road. 8. Skating – Let's Go Skating! Introducing a New Skater to the Ice for the First Time. 9. Swimming – Life Skills for the Water. 10. Taekwondo – Breaking the Habit. 11. Tennis – The Perfect Match. 12. Soccer – Join the Football/Soccer Team! References.

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Book SynopsisTrueman Bradley is a genius detective with a difference, he has Asperger's Syndrome (ASD). Trueman leaves his hometown of Heartville, Illinois, and arrives in New York City, hoping to fulfil his dream of becoming a private detective, like his comic book heroes. He is soon told that a guy with AS could not possibly succeed as a detective. Undeterred, Trueman uses his exceptional mathematical skills to invent a crime-fighting equation, and with the help of his new friends and some amazing inventions, sets out to test his skills against the criminal world of New York. Suitable for children aged 10+Trade Reviewif you're looking for some light-hearted fiction that beautifully - and wittily - illustrates the best advantages of Asperger's whilst vividly bringing to life its accompanying difficulties, it's a great read. -- AukidsLet me start by saying I didn't know a lot about Asperger's Syndrome prior to reading this. Whilst it's not meant as a work of non-fiction, I feel I've come away with some insights as to what Asperger's is, the prejudices surrounding it and an idea of how someone with Asperger's might behave... I thought this was an easy to read and follow book... Truman's character, mannerisms and the way he logically does things made for interesting reading. This has some unseen twists which compliment the storyline well. -- Clover Hill Book ReviewsIn my desire to curate a definitive collection of books for people on the autism spectrum, I enjoy learning of and reading new titles. Among the books I recommend is a growing list of fiction in which the main character has Asperger's syndrome.... "Trueman Bradley: Aspie Detective" combines detective fiction and fantasy to advocate for the abilities of people on the autism spectrum. It's a welcome addition to my recommended stories that feature an Aspergian protagonist. I enjoyed this book, which is written by Alexei Maxim Russell and is published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers. It presents characteristics of Asperger's Syndrome as assets in a professional career. It uses dramatization to illustrate prejudice and misconception about people who are on the spectrum. -- Lake County Record-BeeI want to make everyone aware of a rather fun novel called "Trueman Bradley: Aspie Detective" by Alexei Maxim Russell. This book is ideal for the new novel reader, young tween or teen. It is perfect (depending on their reading level) for older elementary or middle school students.... If you are a teacher, a social worker, or psychologist, this is a terrific book to use during diversity education, in order to promote compassion, understanding and acceptance for those who "march to their own drummer." Trueman Bradley is a wonderful way to teach others how aspies think, feel and understand the world around them. -- Raising Asperger's Kids: Book ReviewTrueman Bradley is a young man with Asperger Syndrome who wasn't diagnosed until later on in his youth and he so badly wants to be a detective, just like Slam Bradley, the comic-book hero he idolizes. So, he moves from the small town of Heartville, Illinois, where he grew up to the mad, bustling world of New York City, with the loud traffic noises that he hates so much.... Throughout the book (which I couldn't put down!) Trueman learned how to pick up subtle cues and to better figure out how the others were feeling, in different situations and he formed some very close friendships. This is a fabulous way for a young person to learn about Asperger Syndrome in a positive way, without being talked down to or being preached at. This one's a winner. -- Autism Society of MichiganMy copy of 'Trueman Bradley' is very dog eared because it has been read by all my family and many of my friends and we all love it... It is actually quite hard to describe because it is not to adults. It is for people on the spectrum, people interested in people on the spectrum but is equally applicable to anyone who likes escapism in the form of a light detective story with a moral... This book is unique and subtly educates, entertains and can be shared across the generations. I hope it will be made into a tv series or film for family viewing with the first asperger hero. I highly recommend this book - delightfully different and indulgent fantasy for everyone. -- asteensTrueman Bradley is an endearing, plucky, and determined protagonist who has readers cheering for him throughout the book. Though he wants to be a famous crime solving detective like his comic heroes Slam Bradley and Dick Tracy, Trueman, and his Aspergers, teaches readers that sometimes the bravest things we are required to do in life are those that we take for granted - being able to cross the street, and make true friends. -- Shana Nichols, Director of the ASPIRE Centre for Learning and Development and author of Girls Growing Up on the Autism SpectrumA brilliant but unconventional detective is a perfect way to illustrate the strengths and weaknesses of an Aspie. I love how Trueman typifies the vulnerabilities of an Aspie... and yet shows how thinking outside the box, is a strength that few neuro-typicals possess... Trueman is intriguing and that will make readers hungry for more. -- Kathy Hoopmann, author of the Asperger Adventures SeriesTrueman Bradley is a quirky, charming novel... From the opening lines I was gently gripped...First and foremost Trueman Bradley entertains and enchants but a secondary benefit is that he educates the reader about Aspergers and shows it as an asset. I look forward to many more Trueman Bradley Stories. -- Anna Van Der Post, research psychologist and author of Children and Teenagers with AspergersThe writing style is very simple, straightforward language - in keeping with the thought processes of the protagonist - but the plot twists are complex and interesting, and fit together well. -- Erika Hammerschmidt, autism advocate and author of Born on the Wrong PlanetThis is a fantastic book in which the reader really gets to know an individual with Asperger's and all of the benefits and challenges that this can bring to relationships and life. A great read! -- Anna Tickle, clinical psychologist and co-author of Exploring Bullying with Adults with Autism and Asperger SyndromeAs an educator who had worked with students with Asperger's, I was delighted to read 'Trueman Bradley - Aspie Detective'. The novel was not only a fun read, it provides tremendous insight into the world as seen through the eyes and understanding of a young man with Asperger's. It's a story where ability triumphs over disability. Trueman's incredible gift, to understand the world through his complex math formulas, his penchant for innovation and invention to implement his formulas and solve problems, are incredible triumphs for a young man who has struggled to fit in and find simple comforts in the complex environment in which he functions.It also portrays the reality of stigma and the lack of understanding that people hold for what remains for many a misunderstood and mysterious disorder. Trueman Bradley will help people understand Asperger's and give reason for people to pause and reflect on how they view those who are faced with challenges in their lives. Trueman Bradley will help people to see past the challenges and appreciate the gifts that each of us possess. -- Peter Bjornson, former teacher and Minister of Education, Province of Manitoba, Canada, now Minister of Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade, ManitobaMy copy of 'Trueman Bradley' is very dog eared because it has been read by all my family and many of my friends and we all love it... The book is unique and subtly educates, entertains and can be shared across the generations. I hope it will be made into a tv series or film for family viewing with the first asperger hero. I highly recommend this book – delightfully different and indulgent fantasy for everyone. -- BFK BooksTable of Contents1. Slam Bradley is back in New York City. 2. New York Hospitality. 3. The Crime-Fighting Equation. 4. The Professional Detective's Convention. 5. Magic Jerks. 6. Out-Smarting Eddie. 7. The Trueman Bradley Detective Agency. 8. There are 71 Public Telephones in Manhattan. 9. Hickson Warehouse. 10. The Mystery of the Zeroes. 11. A True Man Exposes Truth. 12. La Guardia Airport. 13. The Court Case. 14. One More Big Surprise. 15. The Surprise Revealer. 16. Two Ends of a Perfect Circle.

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Book SynopsisFacing any type of change can cause confusion and anxiety for individuals with autism spectrum conditions. This book looks at the small transitions in everyday life that can be a big deal for a child with autism and offers simple and effective strategies to make change less of a daily challenge.Explaining why seemingly minor changes to routine can be emotionally distressing for children with autism, this book teaches parents practical solutions for coping with common transitions including switching from a weekday to weekend schedule, the changing of the seasons, and sleeping in a different bed when on holiday. With insights from the authors' personal experiences and helpful scripts, signs and sketches to use along the way, this book shows that with planning and preparation parents can reduce the stress surrounding change for their child and the whole family.This book is the perfect tool to help children with autism deal with change in a calmer and more confident manner and will be essential reading for parents and any professionals working alongside them.Trade ReviewI think many parents will find inspiration in this book and, for professionals, any insight as to children's and families' experiences can only be beneficial. -- British Journal of Occupational TherapyA hallmark of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is difficulty with change. Parents John Smith and Jane Donlan join with 16-year-old son Bob Smith (co-authors, Create a Reward Plan for Your Child with Asperger Syndrome) to address the difficulties that they encountered together with Bob's resistance to change. Whether the change is large or small, Smith and Donlan have developed a strategy using a combination of scripts, signs, and sketches to help Bob, and others with ASD, navigate successfully.... The sample scripts, signs, and sketches, as well as Bob's input, make this a particularly meaningful and useful book. A great addition to any ASD collection; highly recommended. -- Library Journal ReviewsThis book vies for your attention literally from the minute you see the bold, colourful cover - and it doesn't disappoint... The chapters are short with good size paragraphs that are easy to read... hones and thought provoking. The strategies and techniques suggested throughout the book are extremely useful and manageable... the book is written in such a way that it would give you the confidence to try adapting the techniques to suit the needs of your child... The book is effortless to read as it is written in plain, everyday language... This book would be a perfect reference for parents or carers who need a guide to useful strategies and techniques that could be used or adapted to work for their child. It would also be excellent for anyone who is looking for a plain-speaking, comprehensive book on the subject of "everyday transition". I would definitely recommend it! -- Nasen SpecialThis is a positive self-help book written in an easily accessible style. -- Cerebra NewsbeatI think this book would be a useful resource for parents and carers. It is easy to read and the point are illustrated well with the use of case studies. It offers some very practical suggestions and gives examples throughout. -- Solent NHS Trust, "Shine for Members"Brilliant in its usefulness and accessibility to all readers, this book successfully addresses a huge issue. Life is all about change, and change is one of the biggest challenges for individuals with autism spectrum disorders. It is time that an entire book deals with this important issue. Authors Smith, Donlan, and Smith accurately describe how transitions affect individuals with autism spectrum disorders. They provide real life situations and solutions that work. Additionally, the authors provide valuable, practice proven tools, such as scripts and signs that may be used for a variety of transition situations. Helping Children with Autism Spectrum Conditions through Everyday Transitions is one of those books that may be considered a "must have". -- Dion E. Betts, Ed.D., author of Everyday Activities to Help Your Young Child with Autism Live Life to the Full and Superintendent of Schools, Boyertown Area School District, USAThis easy-to-read book shows a brave honesty and depth of understanding that can be borne only from individual experience. It is so useful to hear Bob's point of view and the book provides helpful practical ideas for every occasion that can be easily put into practice and more importantly might spark the turning point with a difficult issue. This book shows great understanding of the fact that the size of the change is not equal to the enormity of the challenge! It reaches to the sometimes bewildering experience and crucial issues that I hear parents of children with autism spectrum conditions talking about on a daily basis. The authors understand behaviour as a means of communication and represent the impact that the minutiae of everyday life can have on a young person with autism and their families. -- Chantal Blake, Clinical Psychologist, Werneth Primary Care Centre, Oldham, UKA jargon-free book that is easy to read. It recognises day-to-day dilemmas faced by families who have a child with autism. I was able to relate to the real-life experiences illustrated through the case studies, make sense of the practical advice and consider how it could apply to my own situation. -- Debbie Gainsborough, parent of a child on the autism spectrum, Lancashire, UKJohn Smith, along with his wife Jane Donlan and their teenage son with AS, Bob (the darling boy pictured on the cover of the book) have come up with a roadmap to help their son navigate the everyday things that can throw one off, such as getting ready for Christmas or planning a vacation to Florida... This book should have been around yesterday, so that I wouldn't have been so anxious and overstimulated at Christmas! -- Autism Society of Michigan NewsletterTable of ContentsIntroduction. Section 1: Issues Related to Change. 1. Autism/Asperger Syndrome: A Brief Overview. 2. Change. 3. Emotions. 4. Sensory Overload. Section 2: Examples of Times of Change and How to Use the Transition Techniques at these Times. 5. Weekends. 6. Vacations /Holidays. 7. Public Holidays and Festivals. 8. Other Examples of Times of Change. Section 3: Additional Techniques/Strategies to Use at Times of Change and with Autism in General. 9. Useful Tools to Use with Change: Scripts, Signs and Sketches. 10. General Advice. 11. Conclusion. Useful Resources.

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Book SynopsisParties and celebrations can be highly challenging for children and teens on the autism spectrum and they can often feel reluctant to participate. This book shows that if parties embrace the differences intrinsic to autism, and are planned carefully, they can be inclusive events enjoyed by all.Drawing on personal experience with her son, the author highlights aspects of conventional parties that can heighten the anxieties of those on the spectrum and outlines practical solutions to these issues. The book covers considerations for party invitations, prizes, food and venues and includes chapters suggesting activities for age groups 2-8, 9-12 and teenagers. This book will empower parents and caregivers to plan stress-free parties with ease, enabling those on the autism spectrum to develop social skills and self-confidence – and most importantly, have fun!Trade ReviewThis book is about how to get the best "party" deal for your autistic child/children and the best "party" future. The author recognises that social events like parties can often expose an autistic child in a cruel and harmful way, and her aim is to mitigate any damage in this respect... Reynolds understands from a 'in your shoes' perspective, which is a position which gains much respect in the autism community... she shares her best tips and practice. -- Action for Asperger'sReynolds book has good flow and structure throughout'A former nurse and counselor, a mother of an autistic child, Reynolds knows first-hand the difficulties of attending social engagements with a youngster who is on the spectrum. Here she offers a concise and practical guide to important considerations for hosting or attending parties.... Not only will parents of autistic children find helpful suggestions for parties, but any family hosting a child with autism would do well to review Reynolds's work and see how they can best make appropriate accommodations. Recommended for all libraries.' -- Library JournalI really liked the fact that the book was broken down from children to teens and higher and low functioning, giving different ideas for both, from simpler formats with not many activities, to more complex ones. -- Netbuddy.co.ukIt's great to have a "checklist" style guide to planning and attending parties for kids on the autism spectrum. As a mom who, without much forethought, invited a whole class full of autistic kids over for a fun afternoon, I can say that a little pre-planning can go a long way. Especially helpful are the specific recommendations for menus, activities and pre-planning. Bounce houses, trampolines, swimming pools and soft play centres are all ideal for non-competitive, low-stress venues for kids who enjoy sensory experiences but may have a tough time with organized games or social activities. -- Lisa Jo Rudy, author of Get out, Explore, and Have Fun! How Families of Children with Autism or Asperger Syndrome Can Get the Most out of Community Activities and writer for www.autismafter16.com and www.authenticinclusion.orgGiving or attending parties with a child on the autistic spectrum can be immensely challenging, and what should be fun for both of you can end up in distress and chaos. This practical book is full of sensible and useful advice for anticipating every problem and negotiating the way around it, written by one who knows exactly what she's talking about - a mum, of course. -- Jane Asher, President of the National Autistic SocietyTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Introduction. 1. Difficult Aspects of Conventional Parties. 2. Home Versus Public Venues. 3. Using Party Invitations as Visual Aids. 4. Examples of Party Plans. 5. Considering Sensory Issues and Developmental Level at Parties. 6 Challenging Aspects of Party Food. 7. Party Bags, Favours and Prizes. 8. Party Activities for 2-8 Year Old Children with ASD. 9. Party Activities for 9-12 Year Old Children with ASD. 10. Parties for Teenagers with ASD. 11. What to do When Things Go Wrong. 12. Conclusions, Further Advice and Support. Appendix 1. Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Appendix 2. The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). Appendix 3. Makaton. Appendix 4. Visual Cues. Appendix 5. Social Stories. References.

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Book SynopsisStudents on the autism spectrum often face difficulties in the secondary education environment that result from a lack of awareness on the part of their teachers and peers. This guide acquaints teachers with all the information and practical tools needed to understand and support their students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The book presents specific, ready-to-use classroom initiatives with example worksheets, checklists and timetables to help students keep organised with their school work. It also covers general obstacles such as social situations, anxiety, mental health issues and extracurricular activities and how adults can help. Guidance about the leaving school stage and how to ensure the teen is equipped to make the best possible decisions about their future is included.Packed with useful information and examples, this book will be a lifesaving resource for teachers, and everyone else working in secondary education, who want to help their students with autism to stay focused and positive at school.Trade Review“This book provides practical guidance for those engaged in the education of young people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in secondary education. It is clearly written, based on best practice, and takes a 'can do' attitude to what the youngsters can achieve and how mainstream staff can understand and support them. It is full of helpful strategies and examples. This book meets a gap in the literature and will help improve life for young students with ASD and those who educate them.” -- Professor Rita Jordan, PhD, OBE, Emeritus Professor in Autism Studies, University of Birmingham, UK“This is a valuable manual for professionals who will be guiding their students through an important chapter in life. The authors provide a wealth of practical methods for engaging students with autism and highlight them in case examples throughout the book. It is an important resource for teachers who are supporting adolescence, secondary education, and transitions into early adulthood. The integrated approach will help the educational team to facilitate person-centered planning, to be sensitive to an array of issues that may arise, and to implement strategies to promote the student's overall success. This book is like a teacher training and support group all wrapped into one package. The outcomes of reading it are plentiful, but the most important result is a student who is better understood.” -- Kirstina Ordetx, Ed.D, CNS, Owner of Pinnacle Academy, CEO of the Center for Autism Resources and Education, Director of Developmental Behavior Services at Advanced ABA, Southwest Florida and author of Teaching Theory of Mind“People on the autism spectrum perceive the world differently and therefore learn differently. To enable them to access the curriculum, they have to be taught differently and this becomes more challenging for teachers as the pupil progresses through their school careers. This book provides secondary education teachers with case examples that translates theory into day to day classroom strategies and practice. This book is easy to understand and is rich with practical suggestions on how best to support students on the autism spectrum to reach their fullest potential.” -- Dr Jacqui Ashton Smith, Executive Principal, Robert Ogden School And Helen Allison School, National Autistic SocietyTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Preface. Introduction. Part 1. Unravelling ASD, Associated Features and Theories of Thinking and Learning. 1. Characteristics of Autism and the Impact on the Student. 2. Learning Theories Associated with ASD. Part 2. Implications of ASD and Associated Features for High School Students with Autism. 3. Challenges in High Schools and their Impact on Students with Autism. 4. Learning Style and Scholastic Achievement. 5. Social Understanding and Peer Relationships. Part 3. How to Combat Obstacles Experienced by High School Students with ASD: Suggestions and Strategies.6. A Framework for Inclusion. 7. Transition to High School - Implications for Practice. 8. Class-wide Pedagogical Approaches. 9. ASD-specific Approaches. 10. Individualised Learning and Education Plans. 11. Social Interaction and Socio-Emotional Support. 12. Anxiety, Emotional Support and Student Welfare. 13. Supporting Students in High School Towards Independence. Part 4. Post High School…Where to Next? 14. Planning for the Future. Appendix 1. The Causes of Autism. Appendix 2. Resources. Appendix 3. Outline of Research Methods. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisExploring the relationship between ASD and mental health difficulties, this book offers practical guidance to help parents and professionals recognise and handle co-morbid conditions, and dispels the myth that they are just a part of autism.The authors cover a wide range of common mental health problems experienced by children with ASD, including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, psychosis, stress, tics and depression, and illustrate these issues with case studies. They also provide vital advice in an accessible format and suggest strategies to ease the difficulties which arise from these co-morbid conditions. This book is essential reading for professionals working with children on the autism spectrum and is an accessible and practical resource for parents and carers.Trade ReviewThis book aims to help parents and professionals recognise and handle co-morbid conditions, dispelling the myth that they are just part of autism... It provides advice in an accessible format and suggests strategies to ease the difficulties that arise from co-morbid conditions. -- Autism eyeThis is a timely book, as there are few books that address the complex topic of mental health disorders and children with autism labels. At once, the authors provide the reader with practical examples, personalized stories, and clear descriptions of how to recognize and offer support to children with autism labels who experience mental health challenges. The authors take great care when describing the meanings of autism, normality, and mental health 'disorders', and offer parents and practitioners tangible ways to address daily challenges. -- Jessica Nina Lester, Assistant Professor of Inquiry Methodology, Department of Counselling & Educational Psychology, Indiana University, USAAlthough our initial ideas about ASD in the 1940s through 1960s was to think of it as a Mental Health problem, empirical research has unequivocally determined that it is a Neurodevelopmental Disorder, caused by differences in the ways the brains of those with ASD understand and process information compared with their typical peers. Although this is well established and generally accepted, recent studies have pointed to Mental Health difficulties frequently accompanying this Neurodevelopmental Disorder. Because this is a relatively new development and many professionals in the field of ASD are not as well trained in Mental Health disturbances as they are in Developmental Disabilities, this book is a significant addition to the literature. Written by three professionals in the field who recognize a gap developing between understanding those with ASD and seeing how Mental Health problems can alter their needs and suggest appropriate strategies that would be useful to assist them, the book meets an important need. The authors show a thorough understanding of ASD and Mental Health problems and explain both in a straightforward and comprehensive way. The clear writing, penetrating insights, and wonderful case examples combine for a very clear and comprehensive presentation. These exhaustive discussions and descriptions help capture the unique characteristics of those with ASD and show how understanding and working with them changes when their differences are compounded by Mental Health difficulties. Parents and professionals wanting to help those with ASD will welcome this splendid addition to the field. -- Gary B. Mesibov, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Psychology and Psychiatry, University of North Carolina, USAWhat is particularly valuable about this book is its sustained acknowledgement that children with ASD have emotional and social needs beyond what might be assumed from their primary diagnosis. The authors present the complexities that surround this simple and powerful message in a commendably clear and accessible manner. -- Dr Tom Muskett, Lecturer and Speech and Language Therapist, Department of Human Communication Sciences, University of Sheffield, UKChildren and young people on the autism spectrum are more vulnerable to developing mental health problems for a variety of reasons, but we can do much to reduce the likelihood of some of these (e.g. anxiety and depression). This book gives a very comprehensive account of the difficulties which can co-occur with autism and summarises current strategies to address these. As such, it is a very important and accessible addition to the relatively sparse literature on the subject for parents, carers and practitioners. -- Dr Glenys Jones, Chartered Psychologist, Autism Centre for Education and Research, University of Birmingham, UKTable of ContentsAbbreviations. Preface. Introduction. 1. Autistic Spectrum Disorder: An Introduction. 2. Mental Health: An Introduction. 3. Autistic Spectrum Disorder and Comorbid ADHD. 4. ASD and Comorbid Anxiety Disorders. 5. ASD and Comorbid Depression. 6. ASD and Tics or Tourette's Syndrome. 7. ASD and Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD). 8. ASD and Comorbid Eating Disorders. 9. ASD and Other Less Common Psychiatric Conditions. 10. Reducing Stress and Strategies that Help. 11. ASD and Sleep Problems. 12. Sensory Processing Problems and Executive Functioning Difficulties. 13. ASD and Self-Harm. 14. The Use of Therapies. 15. The Role of Different Professionals. Glossary of Terms. References.

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Book SynopsisSexual health and sexuality can be difficult subjects for parents and caregivers to broach with autistic children, made more challenging when children are at the severe end of the autism spectrum. Some parents may even question the validity of teaching sexuality to those who are severely autistic.This practical handbook guides you through the process of teaching about sex and sexuality, answering all of the most crucial questions, including: Why is it necessary to teach this subject to my severely autistic child? When is the right time to start talking about these issues? How detailed and explicit should I be? What methods are most appropriate? It addresses male and female issues separately and covers public and private sexual behaviours, sexual abuse, cross-gender teaching and liaising with school, in addition to the more obvious areas such as physical changes and menstruation. This will be the ideal guide to teaching about sexual issues for any parent, caregiver or health educator caring for a person on the severe end of the autism spectrum.Trade ReviewSexuality and Severe Autism... is a relatively short and accessible book written by a health care professional who is also the mother of a son on the spectrum and so can bring genuine insight to the topic. This book includes many important topics (e.g. public and private behaviours and sexual abuse), contains lots of practical advice and tactics and is respectful in focus. -- Davida Hartman for Autism Sex Education , http://autismsexeducation.wordpress.com/This is not simply a book that can educate and inform. Reynolds makes the point that the book is also about 'protection' and that severely autistic children need to possess a broad sexual knowledge, from knowing the correct names for body parts (and understanding their function in sex), to how to recognise and report abuse. -- Action for AspergersProvides a practical handbook to sex and sexuality, showing parents and educators how to impart the basics to even the most severely autistic child. -- Midwest Book ReviewThis book is an excellent guide for parents of children with more severe forms of autism struggling with how to talk about sexuality and keep their kids safe. Reynolds delivers an honest account of the issues sometimes faced by those with autism while providing practical strategies for tackling this somewhat taboo subject from the sensitivity and experience of a parent's perspective. -- Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson, author of The Science of Making Friends, Assistant Clinical Professor, UCLA, Founder and Director, UCLA PEERS ClinicI find this book to be informative and inspiring; I really hope parents, carers and professionals alike learn from it, in turn impacting positively on this key area of people's lives. -- Jo Hinchliffe, Family Planning Association Project OfficerTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Preface. 1. The Context of Sexuality and Severe Autism. 2. A Framework for Teaching Sexuality. 3. Boys and Men. 4. Girls and Women. 5. Appropriate Behaviour. 6. Recognising and Reporting When Things Don't Seem Right. 7. Long Term Future. Appendices. References. Resources. Index.

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Book SynopsisIdentifying Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as early as possible can have a significant, positive impact on the child's journey to adaptation and independence. Yet too few diagnoses take place at an early, developmentally crucial stage. This unique visual guide aims to equip readers with the skills to recognise ASD in children as young as 15-18 months old. The book provides a systematic framework for understanding the complex nature of ASD. From social interaction to communication to restricted and repetitive behaviors, each chapter focuses on key symptoms and uses photographs to illustrate and enhance understanding of presenting or absent behaviors. It is written in an accessible style and covers all of the core aspects of ASD, giving readers everything they need to be able to successfully identify the behavioral indicators of autism. A final chapter provides an overview of assessment options for young children being evaluated for possible ASD.Taking a visual approach to identifying ASD in very young children, this book will be a valuable resource for early intervention professionals and students, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, psychologists, paediatricians, teachers as well as parents of children pre- and post-diagnosis.Trade ReviewThe author provides an easy-to-read handbook for observing the communication, social play, and cognitive skills of young children with ASD through the use of stills from videos and photographs... This book could be a useful tool for the newly qualified therapist or for the professional with limited experience of working with children with autism, as well as educators and health professionals who seek to extend their knowledge and observation skills in this area. -- British Journal of Occupational TherapyThis is a brilliant, visual, photo-illustrated, guide that demonstrates the benefits of early intervention and how having the right support in place early on can have such a significant and positive impact on a child's journey to adaptation and independence. -- Early Years Educator (eye)Although there are still many mysteries concerning Autism Spectrum Disorders, one thing generally agreed upon is that early intervention is important for more positive, long-term outcomes. This book offers an in-depth analysis of the quest for earlier identification strategies and training techniques and represents a major contribution that many will find invaluable. The research review is thorough and presented in a way that scientists, practitioners, and parents will be able to appreciate and understand. Its combination of scientific integrity, clear descriptions, and jargon-free explanations is one way that this book stands out. Another is that the book reflects the author's conviction that the use of many visuals, including pictures, photographs, and figures, is the best way for readers to understand the issues related to early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorders and to develop the necessary observational skills to be effective researchers and practitioners. -- Gary B. Mesibov, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, The University of North Carolina at Chapel HillPatricia O'Brien Towle offers a fresh, new look at the intricacies of identification of autism in children. Her approach is very worth reviewing and taking into consideration when making this vital diagnostic call. Read, remember, and reference! -- Susan J. Moreno, CEO and Founder, OASIS@MAAP, MAAP Services for Autism and Asperger SyndromeTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. The Importance of Early Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder. 2. Sources of Variability in Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. 3. Communication in Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. 4. Social Interaction in Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. 5. Sustained Social Interaction, Joint Attention, and Reciprocity: Putting it All Together. 6. Restricted and Repetitive Behavior in Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. 7. Sensory Behaviors in Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. 8. Assessment and Evaluation of Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Introduction. References. Further Reading.

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Book SynopsisThis professional text covers every aspect of Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD), from science to services, from the most disabling Kanner's syndrome to the most high-functioning Asperger syndrome, and from birth to old age. The book contains the latest research on the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, intervention and support of individuals with ASD, and examines their implications at various stages of life. A wide range of neurological, genetic, psychological, developmental, social, and emotional issues are covered, and the author also includes less accessible information on the diagnosis and treatment of associated psychiatric and medical conditions, the overlap between the ASDs and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and the management of behavioural and forensic problems. The author does not presume existing technical knowledge and the background to new methods of assessment, such as functional magnetic resonance imaging, standardized clinical and psychological assessment, and genetic testing, is explained.This book will be an indispensable primary resource for paediatricians, psychiatrists, clinical and educational psychologists, specialist nurses, counsellors, psychotherapists, legal professionals and others working with individuals of all ages who are on the autism spectrum. It will also be of interest to any carers and people with an ASD who want to know about the up to date research into the causes and treatment of the disorder.Trade ReviewThese consideration by Tantam are just a taste of the overall mood that flows through the entire book, his insight and compassion towards people with ASD who struggle every day, recognising that this may be considered an asset... unquestionably an essential resource for all professionals who work with people with an ASD... indispensable reference for students and professionals such as paediatricians, psychiatrists, clinical and educational psychologists, as well as many other professionals working with individuals of all ages with autism... I would recommend this book to anyone, including carers or people with ASD who want to know about the most recent research into the etilogy, treatment and presentation of these disorder. -- Annali, Dell'Istituto Supreiore di SanitaIf you only acquire one book on autism, then this should be the one. Digby Tantam is an international expert in the field of autism spectrum disorders and what he does not know about the subject is not worth knowing... Covering all the latest thinking and knowledge with regards to autism, this is a formidable and satisfying read. -- Nursing StandardThis substantial textbook brings together all the latest research and clinical practice in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of individuals with autistic spectrum disorders... This book is impressive in its scope. -- SEN MagazineAny reasonably educated and determined parent who wishes to gain a better understanding of their child or themselves, a more holistic view of past and present theories would gain from reading this book. .. I probably enjoyed this book more than any other I have read specifically on autism due to the brain research. It is the Ramachandran, the Oliver Sachs of the autism world - a book for academics but also accessible to the educated and determined parent. -- asteensDigby Tantam has worked with people with autism spectrum conditions for over 30 years. This experience has made him aware of the remarkable variations in the clinical pictures to be found in people on the spectrum. To take just one aspect, they can vary from those with severe or profound learning disability right up to those of remarkably high ability, even genius level, in specific areas. However, the author emphasises that they all share a major problem affecting non-verbal communication. This type of communication he considers essential for the "unconscious link between people". Is this the basis of the social instinct?The author discusses in detail, but with great clarity, what is known of the physical, neurological and genetic findings in people with autism spectrum conditions, and the developmental, social and emotional factors, including changes with age, that have an equally important effect upon the clinical picture. He also discusses the prevalence and methods of treatment.This fascinating, and intriguing analysis of the remarkably diverse picture to be found in autism spectrum conditions makes this book especially unusual in the published literature of the field, and essential reading for both professionals and parents. -- Dr Lorna Wing, Consultant to the NAS Lorna Wing Centre for AutismThis is a unique and timely contribution to the literature on autism. The National Autistic Society of the UK will be 50 years old in 2012. Many of the children who attended its first school are now approaching old age.In this astonishingly comprehensive and well researched book on autism through the lifespan, Digby Tantam's long and eminent career as a leading academic, researcher and clinician is evident throughout. His thorough examination of the science and the various theories of autism is matched by an engaging and straightforward style that makes even the most complex aspects accessible. His use of case examples also reveals a deep understanding of the true nature of autism - empathy for 'autistic thinking' and recognition of the 'strengths' of autism juxtaposed with recognition of the very real difficulties that may be present. Respect for difference and diversity is noticeably informed by research and a solid first hand clinical background and experience. It is consequently unsentimental, wise and practical.Due to the breadth and depth of this book I would recommend it as an investment that will be invaluable not just for academics, clinicians and researchers but a much wider readership that will include the autistic community and those who support them. -- Richard Mills, Director of Research, The National Autistic Society UK and Research Director, Research Autism, LondonThis authoritative, comprehensive textbook by Professor Tantam, an internationally recognized expert, provides an overview of Autistic Disorder ranging from an historical perspective to our current knowledge of its clinical presentation, life course, underlying pathology, etiology, and treatment. It fills a void in the literature, and I predict it will become "the standard reference" for students, clinicians, and researchers working with Autistic Disorder. -- Edward R. Ritvo, MD, Professor Emeritus, UCLA School of MedicineThis is probably the most comprehensive and wide ranging book on ASD I have ever read. It is an extraordinarily rich mine of information from neurobiology to treatment, and from infancy to adulthood. 'No stone is left unturned'. An original and perhaps controversial feature is the highlighting of links between ASD and ADHD. -- Professor Margot Prior AO, FASSA, FAPS, Department of Psychology, University of Melbourne, AustraliaDigby Tantam provides an authoritative and comprehensive guide to Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)...this book can help us progress from simplistic notions about ASDs to a recognition of their, often subtle, complexities and differences, while ever mindful of the remarkable individuals described or diagnosed as having these conditions. This book is highly recommended for EPs, teachers and educators. -- Michael A. Vickers * Debate - British Psychological Society *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements. Preface. Why this book. Plan of the book. Stigma. Biological vs. experiential. Limits. Introduction. Future enlargement of the ASDs. The challenge of the ASDs for all mental health professionals. Challenge, and opportunity. Coverage of the book. The brain and developmental disorders. ADHD. Swedenborg's hypothesis. Could some kinds of ASD be purely psychogenic? Emotional isolation caused by ASD. Can experience sculpt the brain? Epigenesis and learning. The limits of neuroimaging. How clinically useful is a study of the brain? Networks. Emergent properties. Neurodiversity. Other social considerations. Scope and plan of part 2. Part 1. Sciences basic to ASD. Chapter 1. Neurology of the superficial structures of the brain. Right hemisphere. Anatomy. Normal function. Functional effect of lesions in adulthood. Functional effect of lesions in childhood. Structural and functional changes in the ASDs. Parietal cortex. Inferior parietal lobule. Temporal cortex. Anatomy. Normal function. Structural and functional changes in the ADHD and the ASDs. Temporoparietal junction/ parietal operculum. Frontal and prefrontal cortex. Prefrontal cortex. Chapter 2. The cerebellum, and deep structures in the fore-brain. Cerebellum. Anatomy. Function. Functional effect of lesions in animals. Functional effect of lesions in childhood. Structural and functional changes in the ASDs and related conditions. Amygdalae. Anatomy. Function. Functional effect of lesions in animals. Functional effect of lesions in adulthood. Functional effect of lesions in childhood. Structure and function in the ASDs. Cingulate. Anatomy. Function. Functional effect of lesions in adulthood. Structural and functional changes in the ASDs. Insula. Anatomy. Function. Functional effect of lesions in adulthood. Structural and functional changes in the ASDs. Fusiform gyrus. Anatomy. Function. Functional effect of lesions in adulthood. Structural and functional changes in the ASDs. Chapter 3. Interactions in genes and neurons. Single nucleotide polymorphisms. Copy number variants. Haplo-sufficiency. Imprinting and expression. Epigenetic variation. Tandem repeats. Where we are now. Local area networks: minicolumns. Anatomy. Normal function. Working memory networks. Functional networks and fibre tracts. Anatomy. Normal function. Functional effect of lesions in childhood. Functional effect of lesions in adulthood. Structural and functional changes in the ASDs. Functional aggregates, modules, or systems. The default network. Normal anatomy. Normal function. Functional impairment in default network in ASD and ADHD. The anti-correlated, task focussed network. Attention disorders and the anti-correlated networks. Functional disorders of anti-correlated networks and the ASDs. Chapter 4. Developmental, social and emotional considerations. Social factors. In determining whether or not there is a disorder. Advantages to society in ASD and ADHD. Socioeconomic factors and ASD. Ethnic factors and ASD. Social factors affecting the symptom profile of ASD. Social dominance, power and authority. Anger, aggression, and violence. Social factors affecting the quality of life of people with ASD. Cultural factors. The construction of deviant identities. Cultural explanations of the causes of ASD. Normalization. Deviancy theory. Adopting a pathological identity. Acquiring an identity. Family interaction. Chapter 5. Social orientation, communication, and language. Social orientation. Eye orientation. Gaze following. Inference from gaze or movement direction. Imitation. Relevance to ASD. Chunking. Relevance to ASD. Communication. Classical approaches to communication. Linguistics. Digital communication. Design features of a language. The medium and the message. Combinatorial approaches to communication. Two fundamental types of communication. Anatomical approaches to communication. Language, speech, and writing. Anatomy. Development. Normal function. Impairment: speech and language disorder. Developmental speech and language disorder. Articulation disorders. Speech dyspraxia ('phonological disorder'). Phonological disorders. Speech reading and writing impairment (dyslexia). Relation to ASD. Receptive language disorders ('specific language impairment'). Prevalence of types of speech and language disorders. Management of speech and language disorders. Chapter 6. Nonverbal communication, empathy and theory of mind. Nonverbal communication. Are all nonverbal communication channels affected in ASD? Orienting attention, salience and interpersonal communication. Recognition of emotional expression. Empathy. Affective empathy. Emotional contagion. Emotional contagion and ASD. Emotional contagion and affective empathy. Self-recognition. Self and other judgements in ASD. Modulating affective empathy. Cognitive empathy. Theory of mind. When theory of mind and empathy conflict. Empathy has to be merited. Empathy modulation. Implications for ASD. Chapter 7. Neuropsychology of ASD. Introduction. Intelligence. Testing. Relation to ASD. Memory. Testing. Relation to ASD. Executive function. Relation to ASD. Working memory. Inhibition of prepotent responses. Attention shifting and attentional maintenance. Repetition and pursuit of sameness: tics, stereotypies, obsessions and compulsions. Motor coordination and topographical orientation. Ataxia. Dystonias and dyskinesias. Dyspraxia. Topographical disorientation. Part 2. Clinical aspects of ASD. Chapter 8. The autistic syndrome. Case history. Differentiating developmental disorder and mental illness. Diagnostic criteria. Setting the scene. Historical preoccupation with language. Practically useful criteria for ASD. External validity of an ASD diagnosis. Autistic syndrome. Dimensions of disorder in ASD. Early recognition of the autistic syndrome. Screening for the autistic syndrome. Red flags. Is screening currently worthwhile? Surveillance. Differential diagnosis. Investigation. Chapter 9. Presentation, prevalence, treatment, and course of the autism spectrum disorders. Presenting symptoms of the ASDs. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Language impairment. Prevalence. Rates of ASD. Rates of specific AS sub-types. Rates of ADHD. Rates in different age groups. Gender differences in rates. Has there been an increase in prevalence? Treatment. Diagnosis. Information. Training. Early intervention. Focussed remediation. Psychoeducation. Dealing with anxiety. Enablement. Sensory integration. Medication. Other interventions that are mentioned in later chapters. Course. False assumptions about course. Social disability does not affect quality of life. Quality of life in people with ASD and their carers. Burden. Conclusions . Chapter 10. Clinical assessment of the ASDs. The goal of clinical assessment. Guidelines. Who makes the diagnosis? The setting for the diagnosis. History taking. Developmental history. Other aspects of family history taking. Structured observation and examination. Nonverbal expression. Nonverbal interpretation. Speech and language. Assessing co-morbidity, associated conditions, social responses, and personal reactions. Prosocial competence. Cognitive style. Specific developmental syndromes. Temperament. Assessment of co-morbid disorder. Psychiatric disorder in the context of ASD. Intellectual disability. Family or relationship factors. Physical assessment. Sleep problems. Impact on sleep of co-morbid disorders. Chapter 11. Aetiology of the autism spectrum disorders. Introduction. Factors present at conception. Biological sex. Heritability. Genetic causes of ASD. Intra-uterine factors. Maternal stress. Placental insufficiency. Hormones and brain development. Infections. Teratology. Perinatal factors. Neonatal jaundice. Postnatal factors. Psychological events. Postnatal conditions having a recognized predilection for the brain. Chapter 12. Presentation in infancy and early childhood (the pre-school years). Relevant developmental challenges. First suspicions of ASD. Red flags. Diagnostic criteria. Illustrative case history. Presenting symptoms. Primary handicap. Secondary impairments. Tertiary disability. Differential diagnosis and associated conditions. Speech and language disorder. Hyperlexia. Attachment disorder. Distinction from intellectual disability. Recognized syndromes associated with ASD often presenting in infancy. Elimination diets. Facilitating collaboration between healthcare providers and carers. Treatment. Issues. Chapter 13. Presentation of Asperger syndrome in middle childhood. Relevant developmental challenges. Play and socializing with peers. Learning challenges. Social demand. First suspicions of ASDs presenting in middle childhood. Asperger syndrome presenting in middle childhood. Red flags of Asperger syndrome presenting in middle childhood. Red flags for ASD. Screening. Illustrative case history Asperger syndrome presenting in middle childhood. Presenting symptoms Asperger syndrome presenting in middle childhood. Primary handicap. Secondary impairments in AS presenting in middle childhood. Tertiary disability Asperger syndrome presenting in middle childhood. Differential diagnosis Asperger syndrome presenting in middle childhood. Obsessive compulsive disorder. Sensitivity. Schizophrenia. Other associated conditions. Causes of ASD. Multidisciplinary involvement. Teacher. Speech and language therapist. Educational psychologist. Paediatrician. Child and adolescent psychiatry team member. Child psychotherapist. Investigations. Intervention. Home-based. Health services. School based. Child-based. Chapter 14. Presentation of Kanner syndrome in middle childhood. Kanner's syndrome in the context of learning disability. Red flags of Kanner syndrome in the context of learning disability. Diagnostic criteria of Kanner syndrome in the context of learning disability. Illustrative case history of Kanner syndrome in the context of learning disability. Presenting symptoms of Kanner syndrome. Tertiary disability. Investigations. Intervention. Issues. Chapter 15. Presentation of Asperger syndrome in later childhood and adolescence. Relevant developmental challenges. Agency. Identity. Presenting symptoms. Primary handicap. Secondary impairments. Tertiary disability. Diagnosis. Differential diagnosis. Differential diagnosis of communicative disorder. Differential diagnosis of repetitive behaviour. Differential diagnosis of social impairment. Associated problems. Investigations. Management. The primary handicap. Secondary handicap. Tertiary handicap. Issues. Normalization and mainstream education. Chapter 16. Presentation of atypical Asperger syndrome, often with ADHD, in late childhood and adolescence (secondary school and college). Relevant developmental challenges. Belonging, giving, and taking. Self-control. Who are the atypical group? Red flags. Screening. Illustrative case history. Diagnosis. Presenting symptoms. Primary handicap. Differential diagnosis. Associated problems. Aetiology. Investigations. Treatment. Issues. Victimization. Chapter 17. The presentation and consequences of Asperger syndrome in adulthood. Challenges in assessing adults. Relevant developmental challenges. Asperger syndrome in adulthood. Illustrative case history. Illustrative case history of a woman. Gender differences. Presenting symptoms. Differential diagnosis. Associated problems. Aetiology. Investigations. Intervention. Issues. Appendix 1. Ethics and ASD. Appendix 2. An example of a pre-interview questionnaire. Subject Index. Author Index.

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Book SynopsisFor Aspie girls and women, dating and sexual relationships can be confusing, intimidating and potentially dangerous. Even if actively avoiding romantic relationships or sexual encounters, a lack of understanding about acceptable social interaction between men and women can leave Aspies vulnerable to negative experiences. It is vital, therefore, that the facts and unwritten rules about sexual conduct and relationships are clearly laid out for girls and women on the spectrum.Understanding that Aspies need explanations to be explicit and unambiguous, Debi Brown, a female on the spectrum, presents the truth about sex and relationships, shares her personal insight and provides practical strategies for staying safe in many different situations. As she guides Aspies through the unwritten safety rules around dating, relationships and sex, her advice will empower females on the spectrum, allowing them to build up their knowledge, recognise and report abusive behaviour, understand boundaries, develop relationship skills and work towards a safe independence. Covering topics such as boyfriends, sex, pregnancy and rape, this book includes advice on building a support network, saying 'no', self-esteem and emotional healing and will prepare Aspie girls and women to make independent, informed and safe decisions when interacting with men.Written with warmth, honesty and understanding, this is essential reading for every Aspie girl and woman, from age 13 upwards. It will also be a valuable source of insight and advice for parents, friends, professionals and anyone else supporting a female on the autism spectrum.Trade ReviewWould I recommend this book? Absolutely. Debi's thoroughness, frankness and clarity make it an important book for a lot of girls and women, not just those who are Aspies. -- NASAs an Aspie herself, Debi Brown has written warmly, startlingly honestly and from a position of knowledge... She has understood the fundamental truth, that to ensure a girl's safety, it is vital to educate her... Debi doesn't use innuendo or assume knowledge on the part of the reader... She lays it bare, and when it all gets too difficult (some of the subject matter is deeply challenging), she envelops you warmly with reassurances and kind words. You feel as though you are sitting having a heart-to-heart chat with your best friend. This beautifully written book should be essential reading for all young women, not just Aspies. -- from the foreword by Sarah Attwood, author of Making Sense of Sex: A Forthright Guide to Puberty, Sex and Relationships for People with Asperger's SyndromeMany female Aspies will identify with the sense of uncertainty and vulnerability surrounding sexuality and relationships, which Debi Brown conveys with great sensitivity and honesty. Like a reassuring friend, she guides readers through a carefully structured series of 'rules' about social support, intimate relationships and safety. Written with tremendous warmth, this book gives indispensable advice for females with Asperger syndrome, as well as being enlightening for parents, like me. I particularly enjoyed the personal experiences and insights Debi shared. -- Kate E Reynolds, counsellor, autism mother and author of Party Planning for Children and Teens on the Autism Spectrum and Sexuality and Severe Autism (forthcoming)Table of ContentsForeword by Sarah Attwood. Why I wrote An Aspie Girl's Guide and why you should read it. Introduction. Part I: The support, knowledge and skills you need as pre-requisites to being safe with men. 1. Your support network. 2. Boundaries. 3. Useful rules. Part II: Being safe with men - protecting yourself, making informed choices and acting on your choices. 4. Understanding the female and male bodies. 5. Boyfriends. 6. Kissing. 7. What is sex? 8. Safer sex. 9. Pregnancy and abortion. 10. Too young for sex? 11. Making your choices and acting on them. 12. What to do if you get raped. Part III: Emotional healing. 13. Emotional healing. Conclusion. End Matter. Why the Aspie Girl's Guide is written as it is written. Note to autism professionals. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisChildren and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are often not instinctive and intuitive in expressing their liking or love for someone, or in understanding that family members, friends and others need affection. Expressing affection to teachers, other close professionals, or family friends, can be even more challenging. This book, by the leading experts in the field, provides a carefully constructed CBT programme for professionals to help boys and girls with an ASD to feel confident recognising, expressing and enjoying affection. The activities will help the young person identify their own and others' comfort and enjoyment range for gestures, actions and words of affection. They will also learn the variety of appropriate ways they can express liking or loving someone, helping them to strengthen friendships and relationships. This book will be an invaluable resource for professionals supporting a child with an ASD.Trade ReviewThe book is a complete resource guide focusing on the emotion of affection... This book includes not only worksheets by also baseline measures... The book also includes information about other significant approaches to work with ASD, such as a social stories and comic strip conversations. The authors have included quotes from clients and carers, making the writing style engaging and helping the reader to relate to the information better. The book focuses on younger population however; the strategies recommended can be adapted for other age groups. -- The PsychologistThis book proclaims to be a manual... Worksheets are supported by pictures that show what is being asked of the person... The manual is great in that it looks at providing a diagnosis and is simple to use. I felt it would be fantastic in a classroom environment to help with social skills for children between the ages of 5 and 10 years. -- The Newsletter of the College of Occupational TherapistsThis is a positively written and an easy-to-use book for professionals offering sound information and guidance around a challenging life-long condition. It has some terrific activities, which are fun to complete, to help understand and express emotion appropriately in various situation... It is a super programme for a wide variety of professionals to use with children on the autism spectrum. -- EYEExpressing affection is a fundamental element for the development and maintenance of interpersonal relationships. The interactive and practical material contained in this book will definitely improve the essential knowledge and fluidity necessary to build and use advanced social skills. -- Dr Isabelle Hénault, MA, PhD, psychologist and author of Asperger's Syndrome and Sexuality: From Adolescence through AdulthoodProfessor Tony Attwood and Dr Michelle Garnett have created a perfect resource for home and school. This easy-to-use book offers great information and guidance. It is a wonderful resource that will help children and adolescents understand affection which will enable them to build relationships and friendships. -- Sue Larkey, autism spectrum specialist, teacher and author of Making it a Success, Practical Sensory Programmes and Practical Mathematics for Children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Developmental DelaysThis programme provides a welcome and needed new "positive" perspective on ASD. Attwood and Garnett provide guidance on how to help children with ASD experience and express affection and like, something so important to the human condition and critical to healthy family functioning. -- Susan W. White, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, Director, Psychosocial Interventions Laboratory, Assistant Director, Child Study Center and Co-Director, Virginia Tech Autism ClinicTable of ContentsPart 1. Introduction. 1.1. Why children and adolescents who have Asperger's syndrome (autism spectrum disorder) need a programme to understand and express affection. 1.2. Aims of the programme. 1.3. Who can use this programme?. 1.4. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. Part 2. How to conduct the programme. 2.5. Assessment of the ability to communicate affection. 2.6. How to run group and Individual sessions. 2.7. Session components. 2.8. Session Overviews. Part 3. Sessions. 3.1. Introduction to the programme: Exploring Feelings of Affection. 3.2. Beginning to Recognize and Express Affection. 3.3. Giving and Receiving Compliments. 3.4. The Reason we Express Like or Love through Affectionate Words and Gestures. 3.5. Developing our Skills at Expressing Affection. Recommended resources. References. Appendix 1. Stories Used in the Assessment Programme. Appendix 2. Affection Questionnaires.

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Book SynopsisPeople with Asperger Syndrome (AS) often struggle with change and this is magnified when it is part of their professional role to manage and lead change. Written by a business leader with Asperger Syndrome, this practical guide provides advice and strategies for coping with and implementing change in the workplace.Combining theory and practice with case studies and hands-on tools, the book aims to help those who find change particularly difficult to overcome these challenges and use their unique talents and skills to become change champions in the workplace. The book explores the change management life cycle and how it affects leaders with AS and teaches key skills for successfully leading change, preparing staff for change, and dealing with the effects of change on the organisation as a whole.This is a vital leadership development handbook for executive-level business professionals with Asperger Syndrome as well as those who aspire to careers in these roles.Trade ReviewThis book will be a great encouragement to those who are either in, or aspire to take on leadership roles in business and the professions. I hope it will also be an inspiration and challenge to those NTs who assume that AS people are a liability. The message is loud and clear in these pages: the innate strengths, and the skills you have had to learn in many areas of your life, mean that if you have Asperger traits, you are in some ways even better equipped to adapt than those who have never experienced the challenges of change. -- from the foreword by Will Napier, Chartered Psychologist in private practiceTable of ContentsForeword by Will Napier. Introduction. Part 1: The Change Life Cycle and How that Affects Us as Leaders with Asperger Syndrome. 1. Defining the Asperger Leadership Challenge. 2. Examining the Psychological Contract. 3. Understanding the Transitional Stages and the Psychological Change Cycle. 4. Understanding How Change Affects You. 5. Understanding How Change Affects Them. 6. Understanding How Change Affects the Organisation. Part 2: Some Defining Characteristics of Asperger Leaders and their Relevance for the Change Process. 7. Characteristic 1: The Centre of Knowledge. 8. Characteristic 2: Above Average Intellectual Skills. 9. Characteristic 3: Social Dichotomy - Social when Necessary, Loner when Able. 10. Characteristic 4: Need for Personal Space. 11. Characteristic 5: Delegation Challenges. 12. Characteristic 6: The Natural Leader in Times of Crisis. Part 3: Key Skills for Successfully Living and Leading Change. 13. Key Skill 1: Understanding Yourself and Your Reaction to Change. 14. Key Skill 2: Making Communication a Focus. 15. Key Skill 3: Preparing Them for Change. 16. Key Skill 4: Programme Management and Its Application. 17. Key Skill 5: Establishing the Rules for Change. 18. Key Skill 6: Motivating the Team - Challenges, Opportunities and Rewards. 19. Key Skill 7: Dealing with the Undercurrents. 20. Key Skill 8: Acknowledging Individuals Facing Challenges. 21. Key Skill 9: Developing Internal Change Agents. 22. Key Skill 10: Working with External Consultants. 23. Key Skill 11: Establishing a New Culture. 24. Key Skill 12: Applying the 5th Stage of the Transitional Change Cycle. 25. Summary and Application. Part 4: Practical Tools for Asperger Leaders Leading Change.

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Book SynopsisThis practical guide to effective public speaking for professionals with Asperger Syndrome (Autism Spectrum Disorder) provides tailored advice on using your Asperger strengths to your advantage and overcoming areas of challenge to find your public speaking voice.Written by a business leader with Asperger Syndrome, it includes guidance and hands-on tools for preparation, research and delivery of successful speeches and presentations. It addresses all the key areas that can cause particular difficulty for people with Asperger Syndrome such as coping with anxiety, interpreting the facial expressions of your audience, awareness of your own body language as projected to others, sensory overload issues caused by the speaking environment, and surviving post-speech networking and social events.Whether giving a presentation at a meeting, hosting a corporate event, or delivering an autism awareness speech, this book provides all the guidance that professionals with Asperger Syndrome need to master public speaking.Table of ContentsIntroduction. 1. I Don't Need to Speak Publically Right Now. So Why Worry About It? PART I: Getting Ready for Public Speaking - Before You Need to Do It. 2. Defining the Asperger Challenges and Strengths. 3 Types of Public Speaking. 4. Early Coping Strategies. Part II: Key Elements For Successful Public Speaking. 5. Developing Your Public Speaking Voice. 6. Acknowledging Others. 7. How Do Inspirational Speakers Suceed?. PART III: Preparing for a Public Speaking Engagement. 8. Researching Your Audience. 9. Researching Your Topic. 10. Preparation of Your Material. 11. Personal Preparation. 12. Practical Issues Before You Speak Publically. Part IV: Delivering Your Speech. 13. Engaging Your Audience. 14. The Importance of Post-Speech Socialising and Networking. 15. Managing Sensory Overload Issues After Your Speech. Part V: Practical Tools for People on the Autistic Spectrum Preparing for Public Speaking. References. Further Reading.

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Book SynopsisAdvocating for an increased emphasis on evidence-based practice, this book describes and analyses a wide range of available Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessment measures. The author offers guidance on how to evaluate services and programmes and how to recognise which will be most effective in different scenarios for people with differing needs. A wide range of measures are reviewed in detail, including assessments used in situations often ignored in overviews relevant to ASD, such as assessments of internet addiction, response to traumatic stress, and criminal offending risk and witness credibility. This book is an invaluable resource to professionals who support people with ASDs, including social workers and teachers, and who are under increasing pressure to reliably assess which services, programmes and therapies are effective and fit-for-purpose.Table of ContentsIntroduction. Part I. General Issues. 1.1. Why would you buy a book like this? 1.2. Evidence-Based Practice (EBP). 1.3. Why the emphasis on making practice 'Evidence-Based'? 1.4. A different path - Comparative Evaluation research (CER). 1.5. What if there is no good evidence? 1.6. What sort of evidence do we need? 1.7. Who needs help? 1.8. Understanding the different diagnostic systems and their differences. 1.9. Why are these so important to know about? 1.10. How common is ASD, what services are needed, and do we have the capacity to meet this need? 1.11. Are evidence-based strategies available with known outcomes that should be achieved by routine services? 1.12. Why are some approaches adopted and others ignored? 1.13. We need 'Practice-Based Evidence' for 'Evidence-Based Practice'. 1.14. Assessments for those with ASD. 1.15. Key Questions. Part II. Core Areas in ASD and Assessment. 2.1. Cognitive Ability / Intelligence. 2.2. Communication. 2.3. Motor skills. 2.4. Executive Functioning. 2.5. Central Coherence. 2.6. Working Memory. 2.7. Theory of Mind / Mentalizing. 2.8. Issues with Eating and Drinking. 2.9. Sleep Difficulties. 2.10. Independent Functioning and Vocational Skills. 2.11. Social Skills. 2.12. Quality of Life. Part III. Non-Core Assessments. 3.1. Neuropsychological Test Battery Assessments. 3.2. Attention. 3.3. Behavioural Issues. 3.4. Restricted and Repetitive Stereotyped Behaviour. 3.5. Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. 3.6. Self-Injurious behaviours. 3.7. Sensory Problems. 3.8. Anxiety. 3.9. Depression. 3.10. Obsessionality. 3.11. Fears and Phobias. 3.12. Trauma and Post-Traumatic Distress. 3.13. Risk of Offending. 3.14. Internet Safety, Addiction, Hacking, Cyberbullying. 3.15. Bullying and Social Difficulties. 3.16. Physical Pain and Distress. 3.17. Affection, Friendship and Loneliness. 3.18. Happiness. 3.19. Parental Stress. Part IV. Overview. Part V. Conclusions. Tables. Figures. Abbreviation. Names and Terms. Appendix A. Developing a Personal Profile. Appendix B. Sources of Test Materials. Appendix C. Behavioural Assessment and Single-Case Analysis. Index.

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Book SynopsisPicture stories can play a vital role in helping parents negotiate challenging scenarios with kids with ASD. Yet no matter how many books and flashcards you have, they can't cover every eventuality. So, suppose you could draw the stories yourself...Brian Attwood took up pen and paper when his son John's meltdowns became harder to deal with. The effect was immediate and time and time again picture stories have bailed the family out of trouble and saved John from unhappiness and confusion. In this book, Brian describes step-by-step how to create simple yet effective picture stories using basic drawings and short lines of text, and provides examples based on real-life situations for you to adapt for your child. This book will give parents and carers the tools and confidence they need to create individualised picture stories to help their child with ASD cope with social situations, difficult emotions, transitions and other challenging situations.Trade ReviewSimple, easy to follow instructions, and time to practise too! Brian Attwood shows us how to draw, and use stories for children with autism, and how to adapt them to fit our own situations. What are you waiting for? Get drawing... -- Jane Donlan, co-founder of ASK-PERGERS? and co-author of Create a Reward Plan for your child with Asperger Syndrome and Helping Children with Autism Spectrum Conditions through Everyday TransitionsTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. The answer lies in your hands. 2. It's easier than you think. 3. Stick your toe in the water. 4. Words are pictures too. 5. From single image to story. 6. Here's some I made earlier. 7. Over to you. 8. Against the clock. 9. Not the end but perhaps the end of the beginning...

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Book SynopsisLuke Jackson's unabridged and sparkling sequel to his best-selling user guide to adolescence Freaks, Geeks and Asperger Syndrome is the must-read handbook for teenagers and young adults on the autism spectrum. With devastating clarity, Luke focuses on the pitfalls involved in navigating the transition to adulthood, and the challenges of adult life. He covers everything from bullying and drugs to socialising, sex, negotiating relationships, and finding and keeping your first job.Trade ReviewSex, Drugs and Asperger's Syndrome is one of my favorite books this year. Luke Jackson provides the reader with an in-depth understanding of many relevant issues regarding both Asperger's Syndrome as well as autism in general. This includes employment, bullying, sexuality, relationships, and much more. The autism community and society as a whole will benefit greatly from these much needed discussions. -- Stephen M. Edelson, Ph.D., Executive Director, Autism Research Institute (autism.com), San Diego, CaliforniaWith wisdom beyond his years and the mastery of an expressionist artist, Luke guides the reader through the rocky shoals of successful transition from adolescence to adulthood as a person on the autism spectrum. A straightforward, honest must read for anyone seeking greater understanding of the coming of age of the human soul, autistic or otherwise. -- Stephen Mark Shore, Ed.D., Clinical Assistant Professor of Special Education at Adelphi UniversityThis is a brilliant book. Luke writes beautifully, engagingly and with wisdom. There is nothing he shirks, it is all there, all the drugs, all the pitfalls of relationships, all the social gaffes and mistakes, all described with humour and without judgement. -- Jude Ragan * Autistica *Reading Sex, Drugs and Asperger's Syndrome feels like having a conversation with an older brother or cousin. He advises without preaching, explains without boring and throws in enough jokes to make the entire reading experience thoroughly enjoyable... From bullying to drugs, employment to nights out, and mental health to sex, it includes the entire spectrum of life without judgement, leaving no stone unturned and rendering no subject taboo... Powerful, honest, funny and friendly, Sex, Drugs and Asperger's Syndrome is a must-read -- Penny Gotch * Disability Now *Jackson wrote Freaks, Geeks and Asperger ­Syndrome: A User Guide to Adolescence at age 13. Now he returns at age 26 to share all that he has learned, both the good and the challenging, about becoming an adult, living with Asperger's, and finding his place in the world. With candid humor, the author shares his experiences in becoming an adult and what that means to him. He explores the difficulties he and many others with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) deal with, such as finding work, social scenes, bullying, drug use, sexual relationships, and friendships. A consistent message throughout is the acceptance of differences in yourself and others. Jackson encourages those on the spectrum to embrace and own those qualities that make them unique and to use them to their advantage. VERDICT Jackson's personal and brutally honest take on being an adult with ASD is eye-opening and refreshing. A valuable read for teens and adults with ASD as well as parents, siblings, employers, teachers, caregivers, friends, and partners of those on the spectrum. Jackson's view that ­acceptance of oneself is the first hurdle; welcoming others is key as well -- Library JournalI enjoyed reading Luke's book immensely and will be recommending it to the majority of my teen/young adult counselling clients in the hope that it will go some way towards assisting them through the years of 'storm and strife' that accompanies this particular passage of time. Luke has managed to cover many facets of 'growing up', including dating and sex among other things. However, his book is not for the parent who wishes to keep their 15-year-old wrapped in a blanket of innocence, for Luke tells it 'how it is', with a no holds barred approach. Using correct descriptors for body parts and various sexual acts, there is an absence of euphemisms. Luke writes from an autobiographical perspective, not claiming to be an expert. What is clear though is that he is an 'expert by experience' and conveys his knowledge deftly like a wise old professor! -- Elaine Nicholson * Action for Asperger's *Table of Contents1. Introduction. 1.1. Meet the Family. 1.2. A Layman's Guide to Asperger's. 1.3. Sensory Issues and Autism. 2. Pitfalls of Adolescence and Beyond. 2.1. Under Pressure. 2.2. Spoken Peer Pressure. 2.3. Unspoken Peer Pressure. 2.4. Coping with it All. 3. Work and Education. 3.1. Further Education and the After School Club. 3.2. Higher Education, Whatever That Is. 4. Bullying. 4.1. ...And How It Still Happens. 4.2. Preventative Measures. 4.3. Confidence is Key. 5. Going Out and Staying In. 5.1. New Places and New Faces. 5.2. Staying In: The Calm After the Storm. 5.3. Upping Your Dating Game. 6. Sex and Relationships. 6.1. Big Dumb Sex. 6.2. Relationships and How to Cope. 7. Growing Up. 7.1. Out with the Old and In with the New. 7.2. Employment and Coping with Unemployment. 8. Final Thoughts. Further Reading. Index.

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Book Synopsis*Silver medal winner in the 'Middle Grades Fiction' category of the Nautilus Book Awards 2015*Astie has always been different. Her 12th birthday is looming and she still has not decided on her thesis. All the Learners at the Hub picked theirs years ago. If it wasn't for her cousin, Jakob, life would be unbearable on Elemental Island. On the verge of being diagnosed with Social Syndrome, she stumbles upon Danny who has landed in a forbidden flight machine. To protect him, Astie persuades Jakob to tamper with the Overseer's memory. On the run from the Monitors together, Astie calls on her unique qualities to forge a friendship with the stranger and discover his reason for coming to the island. What she finds will shake the foundations of the place she calls home.Set on a secretive island utopia where science and logic rule, this intriguing novel explores and celebrates differences in people from an alternative perspective. It is engaging reading for children aged 8-13.Trade ReviewThe illuminating adventure of a misfit in a world where autism is so ordinary there isn't even a word for it. Elemental Island is thought-provoking, compassionate and recommended for readers of all ages, with or without 'Social Syndrome'. -- David Mitchell, The Reason I Jump and Cloud AtlasI read many manuscripts, but very occasionally, there is one that totally captivates me and that is the case with Elemental Island. I have absorbed every word with great pleasure, a delicious meal that needs to be savoured and cannot be hurried...The exciting and humorous storyline will captivate the reader and also change and enhance our perception and understanding of the challenges faced by those who have an ASD. Fiction can create a paradigm shift more effectively than facts. -- Tony Attwood, Minds and Hearts Clinic, Brisbane, and author of The Complete Guide to Asperger’s SyndromeThis is a great book for people who have Aspergers because it creates characters and a world that feel real and are easy to relate to. It's also just a great book. So buy it! -- Dylan Hamilton, aged 11, blogger, Book WalrusThis quick futuristic tale encourages autistic and neurotypical readers alike to venture beyond their comfort zones. -- KirkusThis long and meaty sci-fi novel is full of imagination and interest, and its reversal of 'normality' means that readers with Asperger's will be able to relate happily to the majority of people on Elemental Island...a thought-provoking novel with lots to commend it, and it will be of real value to all those who feel themselves to be outsiders. -- HealthyBooksTable of Contents1. Blue and Wet Behind the Ears. 2. In Danger of Becoming Mildly Interesting. 3. But Flight is Forbidden. 4. If I Were a Zogart, No One in My Village Would Starve. 5. I Would Never Eavesdrop Whilst Hiding in the Cat Runs. 6. Elementally We Are All the Same. 7. The Boy Who Flew. 8. The Stranger in Shadows Who Called Me Sweetheart. 9. You Have Very Long Hair for a Boy. 10. Code Red One. 11. Fear of Butterflies in Surprisingly Common. 12. In the Air It Looks Like a Great Big Moth. 13. How to Immobilise an Overseer without Sheep Tackling Experience. 14. I'd Rather Fight a Bio Suit than a Scavenger Any Day. 15. Monitors Are Coming! 16. Cloud Surfing on the Run. 17. Stand By For an Unscheduled Calcast. 18. What Do You Know About the Off-Landers? 19. We've All Done Things We Regret. 20. Captured! 21. Danny and the Tiny Woman in the Window. 22. The Butterfly Kiss. 23. If Someone Betrays You, Punch Them on the Nose. 24. The Adventurers of Elemental Island.

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Book SynopsisUnemployment can be an isolating experience. In this much-needed book, Michael John Carley reassures readers who are unemployed and have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) that they are not alone.Offering guidance on how you can cope with unemployment in a constructive and emotionally healthy manner, Michael John Carley writes with a crucial understanding of the isolation and negative emotions that unemployment can bring about if you have ASD. He explains why so many people find themselves out of work and how it's often not their fault. Providing guidance on how to maintain your confidence and motivation, this book offers advice on how you can pursue other opportunities, such as part-time work or volunteering. The book also features advice on how to manage your finances during periods of unemployment.Trade ReviewIf you're looking for a book filled with fluffy platitudes promising an easy path toward employment for people on the spectrum, this isn't the read for you. But if you're a hopeful realist who wants counsel on how to deal with the ups and downs of unemployment (yes there are ups, as Carley will point out); encouraging guidance on how to believe in and achieve your own highest potential; pragmatic direction for building a strong background and dossier; and loads of helpful ideas for finding your way through the maze of hoops between unemployed and employed; then you have found the very book you are looking for! -- Liane Holliday Willey, author of Pretending to be Normal: Living with Asperger’s Syndrome and Safety Skills for Asperger Women: How to Save a Perfectly Good Female LifeUnemployed on the Autism Spectrum presents a very fresh perspective on joblessness. Michael's message will help many people with ASD. -- Temple Grandin, author of Developing Talents and The Autistic BrainMichael John Carley's brave and witty Unemployed on the Autism Spectrum explains in simple language how people on the spectrum can negotiate some of the trickiest aspects of a neurotypical world. Carley provides cogent advice on how to do and be what is needed in professional contexts without burying your true self and identity, and he does so with immense charm and hard-won wisdom. -- Andrew Solomon, PhD, Professor of clinical psychology at Columbia University and National Book Award-winning author of Far from the Tree and The Noonday DemonMichael John Carley has long been a champion and respected leader in addressing quality of life and mental health needs of persons on the autism spectrum. In this book, he goes at one of the most challenging issues that is sadly all too common for spectrumites, but does so with practical advice from his first hand experiences as an unemployed autistic person, and as a support for so many others. In a highly respectful, personal and intimate manner, Michael wisely addresses the absolute priorities of emotional well-being and living a healthy lifestyle as inseparable from seeking employment. Infused with poignant quotes and anecdotes from many autistic people, this book is a call to action, and provides specific guidelines to motivate readers to take control and make positive changes in their lives. Thanks to Michael's deep wisdom and generosity, this book will help countless individuals transform their lives for the better. -- Barry M. Prizant, PhD, CCC-SLP, author of Uniquely HumanIf you are on the autism spectrum, or care about someone who is, then you really should read this book. However, if you are among those of us diagnosed as "typical," then you NEED to read this book. Why? Because in Michael Carley will introduce you to a vast, untapped workforce of people who just may be your next essential employee and who, simply by you taking that first step toward understanding neurodiversity, may well change both your lives for the better. -- Peter F. Gerhardt, Ed.D, President, Peter Gerhardt Associates, LLCUnemployed on the Autism Spectrum should be required reading for every person as they enter their adult lives, not just individuals diagnosed with autism. It is like having an older, worldly brother provide guidance, support and encouraging ideas as one journeys on the obstacle course to employment. Filled with facts, personal anecdotes and a unique perspective on the challenges faced by individuals on the spectrum, Michael John Carley has written a highly readable resource not only for those on the autism spectrum, but for all who seek to better understand and employ them. -- Linda J. Walder, Founder and Executive Director, The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation for Adult AutismAs the Executive Director & CEO of both Gateway Academy/Spectrum College Transition Program and a mother of a 23 year old Aspie, I found Michael's perspective and insight more than enlightening. It was encouraging and informative! In my experience, the most difficult time for Aspie's is after they have completed their post-secondary education, and the thought of securing a job disables them. As someone who "walks in their shoes", Michael offers a unique perspective and understanding. We will be making this book mandatory in our post-secondary program. Thank you, Michael! -- O. Robin Sweet, Executive Director & CEO, Gateway AcademyA tremendously valuable resource, this volume addresses an important and rarely discussed issue. As with all of us individuals on the autism spectrum often face issues of employment and best approaches to finding new jobs. This volume brings considerable insight into the issue of employment for persons with Asperger's and higher functioning autism. Full of practical and useful advice, it will be an immense help to those seeking to enter the work force. -- Fred R Volkmar, M.D., Irving B. Harris Professor Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine Editor in Chief, Journal of Autism and Developmental DisordersTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Foreword by Brenda Smith Myles, Ed.D. Two Notes on This Book. Introduction. 1. Are You Unemployed? It's Not Just You. 2. Psychological and Emotional Factors of Being Unemployed. 3. Forgiveness. 4. Looking for Work: All You Can Do is Your Best. 5. Take Care of Your Head: Beating the Psychological and Emotional Factors of Being Unemployed. 6. Some minimum wage in the meantime?. 7. The Opportunities. 8. Momentum. Appendix: Survey Participant Data.

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Book SynopsisThe late teens and twenties are exciting times, but filled with potential pitfalls as young people navigate the transition into independent adult life. This handbook is filled with the information that young people with ASD say they want (and need) to know about alcohol and drugs, social media and online safety, relationship types and boundaries, safe sex, stress and emotional health, and independent living. It includes real life examples, coping strategies and practical tips to help young adults with ASD stay safe while living life to the full. Informal and frank, this will be a go-to guide for young people on the autism spectrum.Trade ReviewThe authors are respectful and informative in explaining concepts that may be socially confusing and cloaked in non-verbal cues for young adults on the spectrum. This manual fills a gap in resources and, for that, we parents and young adults on the spectrum are grateful. -- from the foreword by Jane Thierfeld-Brown, Ed.D, Director, College Autism Spectrum, and Assistant Clinical Professor, Yale Child Study, Yale UniversitySensitive and hard to discuss issues (often glossed over for individuals with ASD) such as dating, measuring the stages of relationships, sex, and drinking are covered frankly, bluntly, and thoroughly. While of the utmost importance to everyone, these tough discussions affect young adults on the spectrum differently, often times due to the awkwardness of the topic, and the social faux pas that happen during everyday spectrum living. -- from the foreword by Aaron Schatzman, young adult with ASDTable of ContentsForeword by Jane Thierfeld-Brown. Foreword by Aaron Schatzman. Social Aspects of Adult Life. 1. Socializing Safely. 2. "Friend Me" - Safe and Healthy friendships and Relationships. 3. Let's talk about Sex: Sexuality, Sexual Relationships and Safe Sex. 4. Safely Navigating the Web: Social Media and Online Safety. Health Concerns in Adulthood. 5. Drinking and Drugs: Danger zone!. 6. Stressing Out: Managing Stress and Health. Independent Living. 7. Don't touch my things: Independent Living and Roommates. 8. Preventing "Oops": Household Safety Concerns. 9. Keeping track of the dough: Safe Money Management.

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Book SynopsisIn 1964, the release of Dr. Bernard Rimland's book, Infantile Autism, revolutionized the autism field by providing the autism community with much-needed guidance on how to understand and treat individuals on the spectrum. He single-handedly realigned the field from a psychodynamic, parent-blaming perspective to a scientific, physiological course of action. This 50th anniversary edition presents the original book with contributions from leaders in the autism field, including Drs. Martha Herbert and Simon Baron-Cohen, who celebrate Dr. Rimland's exceptional work, and place his findings within the context of autism as we understand it today. Bringing Dr. Rimland's findings up to date for a new generation of readers, this book will be fascinating reading for parents and those on the autism spectrum as well as professionals working with autism and anyone with an interest in autism and/or psychological theory.Trade ReviewThis book is an unparalleled testament to [Dr. Rimland's] long and productive career, to his determination to solve the puzzle of autism and to a brilliant and inquisitive mind. Please enjoy this book. It is a testament to this man's exceptional journey to find answers to one of the most complex medical disorders of our time. -- from the foreword by Margaret L. Bauman, M.D.Dr. Rimland is to be commended for presenting the first evidence that autism was a biological condition. When his book was published, he was a lone visionary. -- from the foreword by Temple Grandin, Ph.D.Bernard Rimland was an astonishingly farsighted pioneer in drawing a road map towards a neuroscience of autism. It is a fitting tribute that his seminal book, published fifty years ago, is made available to a new generation of researchers, together with reflections on its influence on our understanding of autism today. -- Uta Frith, Emeritus Professor of Cognitive Development, University College London, UKBernie Rimland's substantial impact on the field of autism can still be felt today. It is fitting that his legacy be honored with this reprint of his original book which was written 50 years ago. The added commentaries by today's experts highlight how Dr. Rimland's original insights permeate current perspectives on autism. Every student of autism should read Dr. Rimland's book. -- Geraldine Dawson, Ph.D., Director, Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development, Duke University School of Medicine, USBernard Rimland wrote with both passion and scientific fervor. The end result was a classic that reinterpreted the prevailing view on autism by the medical profession. His book enriched our minds with a neurobiological perspective that continues to generate interest across generations with ideas that are still relevant. -- Manuel F. Casanova, M.D., Gottfried and Gisela Endowed Chair in Psychiatry, University of Louisville, USWhile still in fellowship training in pediatric neurology, my chief Richmond Paine handed me a copy of the book on infantile autism by Bernard Rimland and told me to read it. I was impressed by the book and began to schedule young patients with autistic features. I got in touch with Bernard Rimland and offered to test blood levels in children with autism in a serotonin laboratory I had just started. The rest is history - that prescient book by Bernard Rimland to some extent altered my lifelong professional focus. -- Mary Coleman, M.D., President, Foundation for Autism ResearchBernie Rimland was a pioneer in the field of autism. From his work in being one of the founders of the Autism Society of America in 1965 to his work in setting up the Autism Research Institute, Bernie's legacy is one of caring, compassion and results. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Bernie's writings helping so many impacted by autism, we also celebrate the strong legacy of this man and his work.? -- Scott Badesch, President, Autism Society, USThis book is a remarkable testament to where the neurobiology of autism began and thus where the recognition of autism as a brain disorder originated. The understanding of the neural, cognitive, and genetic basis of autism has come light years beyond its origins in this original treatise and is moving very fast. The updates to the original chapters provide a wonderful sense of the distance that has been covered. I would recommend this book to everyone with an interest in autism or as we call it now, autism spectrum disorder. -- Nancy Minshew, M.D., Professor of Psychiatry & Neurology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, USBernard Rimland's book "Infantile Autism: The Syndrome and Its Implication for a Neural Theory of Behavior" (1964), was a pioneering effort, especially noteworthy because, as a parent as well as a scientist, he stuck out strongly for an objective, science-based approach to understanding autism at a time when the field was rocked by mysticism. The book was prescient, pointing at the connections between the underlying neural deficits in autism, and effective behavioral treatment which are only today being proven. Rimland's book, along with Rosalind Oppenheim's "Effective Teaching Methods for Children with Autism," were the very first in the field, both strongly promoted objective, systematic behavioral strategies and both were written by parents. Remarkable. -- Travis Thompson, Ph.D., Professor, Special Education Program, Department of Educational Psychology, University of Minnesota, USTable of ContentsForeword to the New Edition. Margaret L. Bauman, M.D, Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Boston University School of Medicine, Integrated Center for Child Development, Newton, Massachusetts, US. Foreword to the New Edition. Temple Grandin, Ph.D, autism advocate and Associate Professor of Animal Science, Colorado State University, US. Introduction to the New Edition. Stephen M. Edelson, Ph.D, Director, Autism Research Institute, US. Foreword by Leo Kanner. Preface. General Introduction. Introduction to Part I. The Controversies and their Resolution: A Critical Analysis of the Literature. Introduction to Chapter 1. Stephen M. Edelson. 1. The Syndrome of Early Infantile Autism: Background, Course, Diagnosis and Prognosis. A. Background. B. Course and Symptom of the Disease. C. Prognosis. D. The Diagnosis of Autism. Introduction to Chapter 2. Stephen M. Edelson. 2. The Parents of Autistic Children. Parent Occupations. Stephen M. Edelson. Introduction to Chapter 3. Stephen M. Edelson. 3. The Etiology of Infantile Autism: The Problem of Biological versus Psychological Causation. A. The Arguments for Psychogenesis of Infantile Autism. B. The Case for Biological Causation. C. Psychogenesis as an Inadequate and Pernicious Hypothesis. A Commentary on Chapter 3. Robert K. Naviaux, M.D., Ph.D., Professor of Genetics, Department of Medicine, Pediatrics, and Pathology, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, US. Introduction to Chapter 4. Stephen M. Edelson. 4. The Differentiation of Early Infantile Autism from Childhood Schizophrenia. Introduction to Part II. A Theory of Autism: Its Nature and Cause. Introduction to Chapter 5. Stephen M. Edelson. 5. Autism as a Cognitive Dysfunction. A. The Conceptual Impairment. B. A Hypothesized Relationship Between the Cognitive Dysfunction in Autism and the Reticular Formation of the Brain Stem. Cognitive Dysfunction: Impairment in Memory. Stephen M. Edelson. Introduction to Chapter 6. Stephen M. Edelson. 6. The Specific Biology of Infantile Autism: Sensory Phenomena, Psychopharmacology, Autopsy Reports and Hyperoxia as Related to the Reticular Formation. A. The Reticular Formation and Perception. B. Psychopharmacology. C. Autopsy Findings and Other Attempts to Determine the Organic Basis of Autism. D. Hyperoxia as a Possible Causative Factor. E. Discussion. Reflections on Bernard Rimland and the 50th Anniversary of Infantile Autism. Paul Millard Hardy, M.D., Hardy Healthcare PLLC, US. Rimland's Contributions: The Role of Sensory Processing Challenges in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Lucy Jane Miller, Ph.D., OTR, Clinical Director, Sensory Therapies And Research (STAR) Center and Research Directory, Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) Foundation, US. Matthew S. Goodwin, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, US. Jillian C. Sullivan, Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) Foundation, US. Vitamin B6. Jon B. Pangborn, Ph.D., Former Consultant to the Autism Research Institute and Co-Founder of “Defeat Autism Now”, US. Introduction to Chapter 7. Stephen M. Edelson. 7. The Theory: Integration and Support. A. The Inheritance of Intelligence and its Biological Substrate. B. The Paradoxes of Intelligence. C. The Hypothesis of Oxygen Intolerance and the Cerebral Vasculature. Introduction to Chapter 8. James B. Adams, Ph.D., Director, Autism/Asperger's Research Program, Arizona State University, US. 8. Ideas for Research. A. Diagnosis. B. Etiology. C. Therapy and Training. D. Broader Implications of Research on Autism. The Fetal Steroid Theory of Autism. Simon Baron-Cohen, Ph.D., Autism Research Centre (ARC), Cambridge University, UK. Bonnie Auyeung, Ph.D., Autism Research Centre (ARC), Cambridge University, UK. Michael Lombardo, Ph.D., Autism Research Centre (ARC), Cambridge University, UK. Wisdom and Vision: A Comment on Rimland's Concept of “Training” for Children with Autism. V. Mark Durand, University of South Florida, St. Petersburg, US. Relevance to Modern Biomarker of Autism. Richard E. Frye, M.D., Ph.D., University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Arkansas Children's Hospital, US. Introduction to Part III. Some Possible Implications for the Theory of Autism for a Theory of Behavior. Introduction to Chapter 9. Stephen M. Edelson. 9. Some Implications of Early Infantile Autism for the Study of Personality. A. Emotion and Parental Personalities. B. Drive and the Parental Personalities. C. Cyclothymia, Schizothymia, and the Parental Personalities. D. The Relationship Between Autism and Schizophrenia: A Hypothesis. Introduction to Chapter 10. Stephen M. Edelson. 10. Further Implications of the Study of Autism. A. The Abilities of Autistic Children. B. Distractability, Concentration, and Intelligence. C. Delayed Mental Audition. D. The Problem of Innateness of the Specific Affective Disturbance. Special Abilities and Savant Syndrome: An update on Dr. Rimlands observations. Darold A. Treffert, M.D., Behavioral Health, Agnesian Health Care, Wisconsin, US. Introduction to Chapter 11. Stephen M. Edelson. 11. Some Implications of Early Infantile Autism for a Theory of Behavior. A. A Hypothesis Concerning Reticular Function. B. Toward a Neuron Entelechy Theory of Cognition. Rimland's Reticular Formation Theory of Autism in the Light of 50 Years of Brain Research. Martha R. Herbert, Ph.D., M.D., Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, US. Appendix. Suggested Diagnostic Check List. Appendix. The Invisible Wall. Stephen M. Edelson. Appendix. Environmental Vulnerability and Everday Epigenetics: Empowering Treatment and Recovery. Martha R. Herbert. Appendix. Mark Rimland: An inspiration to us all. Stephen M. Edelson. Afterword. Sidney M. Baker, Ph.D., Coordinator of the Autism Database Project for the Autism Research Institute. Bibliography. Name Index. Subject Index.

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Book SynopsisSpectrum gals, ever wished you had a handbook to help navigate the confusing world of teenage girlhood? Look no further! Aspie-in-the-know, Jennifer Cook O'Toole provides just that with her inspirational guide to life for teenage girls with Asperger syndrome. Drawing on her own, real-life experiences rather than preaching from textbooks, she covers everything you need (and want!) to know, from body shapes and love interests to bullying, friendships and how to discover and celebrate your unique, beautiful self. With illustrations by an Aspie teen and inspirational quotes from well-known, female Aspie voices, including Temple Grandin, Rudy Simone, Robyn Steward, and Haley Moss, Sisterhood of the Spectrum is your perfect companion on the "yellow brick road" to womanhood. It will leave you empowered, informed and excited to be different.Trade ReviewAs a psychologist specializing in working with females with ASD, I am truly privileged to see sparks of great beauty daily; the girls and young women I meet and work with amaze me with their caring, their talents, and their resilience. And yet too often they do not see it themselves. O'Toole's Sisterhood is an 'at last' gift I can return to them - a safe invitation for every young woman to read and journey through while getting to know herself. For any girl on the spectrum who has felt alone, like she is the only one, Sisterhood is a chance for her to crack open her heart and let a small voice whisper - 'that's like me.' Thank you, thank you Jennifer a thousand times over for this beautiful bursting book that I cannot wait to share! -- Shana Nichols, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist, Owner, Director and Researcher, ASPIRE Center for Learning and DevelopmentI picked up this book, and could literally not put it down until I had read it through. As a developmental pediatrician, I frequently identify children with autism and address their needs. I am relieved to find such an engaging resource specifically geared towards the population of girls becoming women. Jennifer O'Toole has created a witty, insightful, and memorable guide to the workings of the young female mind. No clinician, parent, or young woman affected by autism should be without this book. -- Wendy J. Ross, MD, CNN Hero, FAAP Director, Center for Pediatric Development, and Founder, Autism Inclusion ResourcesI have been deeply moved by the meaning Jennifer gives to what I thought were my everyday experiences and it is my belief that though the primary audience of this book may be girls on the spectrum, others will find great value in the words, findings, and experiences of the vibrant Jennifer Cook O'Toole. Because no matter if we fall within the spectrum, are navigating the cusp, or we find ourselves elsewhere, aren't we all wired just a little bit differently? -- Amy Serrano, Glamour Magazine “Woman of the Year,” Internationally-Celebrated Filmmaker, Writer & HumanitarianSisterhood of the Spectrum is a smart, cheeky, authentically unique read for ALL girls. Just like she does in her other Asperkids books, Jennifer entertains and inspires and makes the reader feel as if she is talking just to them... because she is! The numerous empowering messages throughout the book such as, 'A candle doesn't lose its flame when it lights another candle' leave the reader feeling heard and remind all woman that we matter and are perfect just the way we are! If you have a tween/teen or young adult daughter, granddaughter, sister or friend you will want them to read this book. -- Zoom Autism magazineSisterhood of the Spectrum is over-the-top awesome in every way. There were times it actually made me cry with its dead-on description of the truth. Simply by inviting spectrum girls to connect with their own sisterhood, it makes a huge contribution, and that's just the beginning. With humor, directness, wisdom and honesty, this book packs spectrum girls' tool kits with what they need to grow and thrive while discovering their true selves. I couldn't put it down and can't wait to buy it for myself and share it with every clinician and every family and every girl I know who's part of this powerful and gifted community. As a psychologist with the honor and privilege of working with Aspie girls, I am deeply grateful to Jennifer Cook O'Toole for this treasure of a guidebook. -- Carol Moog, PhD, co-author of The Autism Playbook for Teens, psychologist, The Miquon School and in private practiceAuthor Jennifer Cook O'Toole shares her own experiences as a woman on the spectrum and has used each memory (which she relates with zingy humour and brash honesty) to illustrate the pain and pitfalls of being misunderstood as a girl and later as a young woman...her captivating stories have been cherry-picked to illustrate common difficulties experienced by spectrum girls. Jennifer's handbook shows her readers everything they need to know to shore up their own confidence, social awareness and personal resilience...the author's buddy-like tone is really engaging; she's the wise big sister you'll keep returning to for advice and support...this is the holy grail for girls on the spectrum. I'm not kidding, either. -- Debby Elley * AuKids Magazine *Table of Contents(A Beautiful Idea). This Calls for a Rewrite. The Microphone: Let Me Hear Your Voice, Spectrum Girls. Quotealicious Page #1. Mini-Chapters. 1. Spelunking: Discovering the Typical Diamond You Already Are. 2. Follow the Yellow Brick Road: Why You Don't Need a GPS to “Find Yourself”. 3. No Spoilers, Sweetie: A Story about Stories…And a Relay Race. 4. Let Me Introduce You…to Yourself. 5. Playing Dominoes In Reverse: Know Where You Want to Go If You Want to Get There. 6. Decisions, Decisions: What You Choose IS What Continues. 7. “No” Is a Complete Sentence: People Pleasing vs. Pleasing Yourself. 8. Anxiety: The Nemesis of All Awesomeness. Something Special: The Box on the Shelf. 9. You Cannot Actually Die of Embarrassment. 10. Blanching at Perfectionism: Real Girls Aren't Perfect. And Perfect Girls Aren't Real. Less Stress – More You (Alternatives to Self-Harm). Something Special: Daisy's Lesson. Quotealicious Page #2. 11. Sexuality: The Venn Diagram They Didn't Teach in School. 12. No 'Right' Way to 'Be a Girl.' 13. The Question Box: Why THAT Would Be a Good Idea (Or Not). 14. Body Blow: How You “Measure” Up. 15. Function over Form: Your Shape, Senses…and Bras. 16. Why Romeo and Juliet is Not a Love Story. 17. Danger Signs. 18. The Particulars: Falling in Like with Your Eyes Wide Open. Quotealicious Page #3. Something Special: The Evil Twins. 19. Ain't I a Woman: Girl. Power. For All. 20. Bullies, Mean Girls, and Stuff that Actually Works. Need-to-Know-and-Believe Bullet Point Recap. Your Song. Resources (Actual. Resources. Please trust them. Please use them).

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Book SynopsisAutism and its Medical Management explains the medical aspects of autism and how both parents and professionals can use current medical knowledge to better understand how to address the medical aspects of autism.The book begins with an overview of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) and how they are diagnosed, and goes on to identify the different types of autism and to describe relevant medical interventions. The author also provides an outline of recent research to enable parents and professionals to gain an understanding of the various factors that may contribute to the development of ASDs, as well as the latest available treatment options.Bridging the communication gap between medical professionals and parents, this book offers accessible explanations of medical terminology and treatment relevant to ASDs and is an important tool for parents and professionals working with children with ASDs.Trade ReviewThis book explains the medical aspects of autism and how both parents and professionals can use current medical knowledge to better understand how to address these aspects. -- BILD information ServiceThis book will help professionals and (scientifically literate) parents to understand the various factors that can contribute to the development of ASDs, as well as the latest treatment options. -- Booknews.comHis book is written for parents, therapists, physicians, and interested lay people. In clear language and an easy-to-read format, he starts with an overview of autism and definitions before going on to cover theories, treatment, and medication options. -- Library JournalParents and professionals who work with children will find much-needed insights and medical assessments in Autism and Its Medical Management, a guide for lay readers on its medical aspects of autism and how the latest medical knowledge can help address common concerns. From a review of autistic disorders and how they are diagnosed to new medical interventions, this offers the latest research keyed to solutions to common issues. -- The Midwest Book ReviewTable of ContentsPreface. Introduction and Reader Guide. Part I: Autism Overview 1. What is Normal Development and Does My Child Have Autism? 2. Understanding the Diagnosis of Autism. Part II: Definitions 3. Defining the Clinical Aspects of Autism Spectrum Disorders. 4. What Type of Autistic Spectrum Disorder Does My Child Have? (Non-Regressive Autism, Regressive Autism Syndromes, Asperger's Subtype, Secondary ASD). 5. Current Recommendations For Medical Evaluation of ASDs. 6. The Role of Medical Laboratory Diagnostic Testing in Autism Diagnosis. 7. Neuroanatomy and Neuroimaging in ASDs. 8. Electroencephalography (EEG): The Relationship of Epilepsy or Epileptic Activity in ASDs. 9. Genetics. Part III: Theories On Autism Spectrum Disorders 10. Are Autism Spectrum Disorders Increasing And Why? 11. Vaccinations, Mercury, And Autism.12. Immunology and Autoimmunity: Is There a Relationship to ASD? 13. Theories on a Prenatal Cause of Autism Chapter. 14. Alternative Medicine Theories on Autism. Part IV: Treating Autistic Spectrum Disorders 15. Overview of Treatment of Autism. 16. Picking A Physician. 17. Non-Medically Sanctioned Alternative Groups Promoting Therapy for Autistic Spectrum Disorders and Gluten Casein Sensitivity. 18. Overview of Medicines For Autism: No Cure But Symptomatic Treatments Can Help. Part V: Neurologically Managing Clinical Aspects of ASD With Medication 19. Medicines Prescribed for Behavioral Problems in ASD. 20. Treating EEG Abnormalities and Epilepsy in ASD. 21. Immunological Medical Therapy in Autism. 22. Gastrointestinal Issues and Autism Spectrum Disorders. 23. Medications for Core Symptoms of Language and Behavior. 24. Rational Approach to Medical Treatment of Autistic Patients: Case Studies. Appendix 1: Chapter Notes and References. Appendix 2: Glossary. Appendix 3: Resources. Index.

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Book SynopsisWhen Sally Kirk's son, Will, was diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), she did everything she could to understand his condition and to find ways of improving his quality of life. In this book, Sally shares the story of her journey with Will and how her discovery of biomedical interventions significantly improved his behaviour and changed their lives for the better.Based on personal experience and extensive biomedical research, the book shows how important it is to understand both the child's mind and body, and explores how, when underlying physical problems are treated, brain function and troublesome behaviors often improve. It describes in depth the most common physical problems for those on the autism spectrum and the variety of treatments available such as minimizing exposure to heavy metals and toxins, alterations in diet, and use of vaccinations.This positive, practical book tells a personal story of hope and provides a wealth of essential information on biomedical interventions for parents of children on the autism spectrum. It will also be a useful resource for therapists, medical professionals and adults with autism-spectrum diagnoses.Trade ReviewThrough Sally's lively and engaging writing, she empowers all parents to be curious and active ain seeking the correct treatment... Whether you are already well versed on biomedical intervention or you are just starting to find out more about it, this book will be a great guide. -- Youth in MindHope for the Autism Spectrum is the oasis every parent longs to find, the wellspring that nourishes body, mind and spirit at each reading. Sally Kirk, mom of the three boys, one who is on the spectrum, offers her story with valiant honesty. She is generous with "if only I'd known" moments, hard-won wisdom that can help other parents avoid the potholes and landmines of all that is the autism spectrum... In the end, what is priceless about the book is the infinite hope it offers to even the most down-trodden parent. Hope exist; Kirk provides a roadmap to find it. -- Autism Asperger's DigestSally Kirk has done a fantastic job taking a very complicated subject and explaining it in a way that is easy to understand and even entertaining, while staying true to the science. I think this book is a must-read for every parent of a child with autism and anyone else who wants to better comprehend the medical treatment options for the disorder. -- Bryan Jepson, MD, Thoughtful House Center for Children, author of Changing the Course of AutismSally Kirk has written a heart-warming report of her journey into biomedical therapies for her ASD son. Readers will readily identify with the questions she faced about this new way to treat autism. I particularly liked her husband's conversion from skeptic to enthusiastic supporter about these strategies as he saw his son improve. The book is helpful and enjoyable reading, highly recommended for new families starting on the long path of healing for our deserving and wonderful children. -- Jaquelyn McCandless, MD, author of Children with Starving Brains and a regular speaker at Defeat Autism Now! conferences[this book] choked me up inside, bringing tears to my eyes because of the emotions and the enlightenment. It is so honest, written with such heart-a truly informative help that brims with humor and smiles. I couldn't put this down. -- Eileen Abbott, mother of a child with Asperger's syndromeMs. Kirk's book is clear, concise and informative. She takes rather complicated topics and translates them into easy-to-understand concepts. I highly recommended this book for parents and professionals who want to learn the basics about biomedical interventions. -- Steve Edelson, PhD, Director of the Autism Research Institute[in this book] you can find the voice, the wisdom and the expertise of a mom whose words will take you up the path and give you her indispensable view of the landscape of autism. -- Sidney M. Baker, MD, co-founder of Defeat Autism Now! and co-author of Autism: Effective Biomedical TreatmentsAn extremely helpful resource for the newly-diagnosed child with autism spectrum disorder, providing the family with practical information on biomedical interventions, as well as offering emotional support from a mother who's been there. -- Kenneth A. Bock, MD, author of Healing the New Childhood Epidemics: Autism, ADHD, Asthma and AllergiesThis is a book that transforms the hard-to-understand aspects of autism into everyday language... not too hard and not too simple - it's just right. -- Jon Pangborn, PhD, co-founder of Defeat Autism Now! and co-author of Autism: Effective Biomedical TreatmentsTable of ContentsForeword by Elizabeth Mumper, MD. Many Thanks for Making this Book Possible. Why This Book was Written and Who is Behind It. 1. What is this Book About Anyway? Part I. Our Years of Searching. 2. All is Well. 3. It Started with Motor Delay. 4. The Plot Thickens. 5. Living with the Wrong Diagnosis - ADHD. Part II. Our Years of Understanding. 6. Getting the Right Diagnosis - Asperger's Syndrome. 7. Asperger's and the Autism Spectrum. 8. A New Footing. 9. Food for Thought. 10. Friends and Family. 11. Back to Our Story. Part III. A Pivotal Discovery - Biomedical Intervention. 12. Hello, Biomedical Intervention. 13. We Started Biomedical Intervention. 14. The Wow! of Biomedical Intervention. 15. Life Goes On. Part IV. Biomedical Problems and Interventions of the Autism Spectrum.16. A Foundation for Understanding Biomedical Issues and Treatments in Autism. 17. Common Problems of Body Chemistry in Autism. 18. Common Interventions for Ailing Body Chemistry. 19. Common Interventions for Heavy-Metal Overload. 20. High Mercury on the Autism Spectrum: Its Sources & Symptoms. 21. Mercury in Vaccines. 22. Minimizing Exposures to Heavy Metals and Toxins. 23. Common Gut Problems in Autism. 24. Common Gut Interventions - Food Issues. 25. Common Gut Interventions - Diets. 26. Common Gut Interventions - Gut Flora. 27. Common Gut Interventions - Last But Not Least. 28. Common Immune System Problems & Interventions. 29. Practical Tips for Doing Biomedical Intervention. 30. Parting Thoughts, Farewell, and Best Wishes. Appendix A: Will's Heroes Unveiled. Appendix B: ARI Parent Ratings of Behavioral Effects of Biomedical Interventions. Appendix C: Nutrient Supplementation. Appendix D: Interpreting the Urinary Porphyrins Test. Bibliography. Subject Index. Author Index.

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Book SynopsisAutism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, is the umbrella term used to describe a whole family of related conditions. Within this group, there is a subgroup of conditions known as PDD (NOS) - Pervasive Developmental Disorder (not otherwise specified) - which do not quite meet the diagnostic criteria of Autism or Asperger Syndrome. Written specifically for parents, this fully-updated second edition sets out what it means for a child to be diagnosed with ASD, PDD (NOS), autism or Asperger Syndrome, and explains where parents should go from there. The authors describe the signs and symptoms of each condition, what a diagnosis means, how a child fits into the diagnostic terminology, and what the diagnostic procedures involve. Associated disorders such as Rett Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder and OCD are reviewed, and the authors describe the various treatments, therapies, and educational approaches available. The book also includes new information on medication and on the evolving concept of diagnosis, as well as a list of frequently asked questions and new interviews with parents of children on the autism spectrum. Accessible, informative, and supportive, this book is an essential guide for parents of children with an autism spectrum disorder.Trade ReviewParents of the newly diagnosed may feel isolated and burdened; the new edition of Autism, Asperger Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder by Barbara Quinn and Anthony Malone offers answers, explanations, and - perhaps most importantly - a community of parents who've walked this same path...Throughout the book, with precise, supportive wording, the authors encourage parents to trust themselves, listen to their children, and relish the people their sons and daughters grow to be... The bulk of the book focuses on specific questions parents may have about their own child's diagnosis. The authors begin with a discussion of normal development and the ways children might differ from this baseline... Using anecdotal examples, they do an excellent job illustrating the difference between children with a diagnosis and children who are simply slower than average. -- ForeWord ReviewsI would recommend it to parents of newly diagnosed children with autism, PDD, or Asperger's. It is easy to read and touches on all the key subjects to help a parent understand the basics of what they are up against. Parents will learn a lot from the personal accounts of other children with ASD and will also get a good idea of what they may want to pursue next in their journey. -- Help! S-O-S for ParentsThe authors use easy to understand language to attempt to explain what may cause autism, pointing out the complex interplay between genetics and brain functioning and the possibility of an "epidemic" of autism, pointing out that may not be the case... each chapter is highlighting that particular concept the chapter is discussing, to give the reader an idea of just how complex and variable ASD really is. -- Newsletter of the Autism Society of MichiganTable of ContentsForeword. Acknowledgements. About the Authors. Sam Likes Trains. Eric is a Soldier. Introduction. 1. What is Autism Spectrum Disorder? 2. Social Reciprocity. 3. Communication. 4. Impairment in Play Style. 5. More Characteristics and Areas of Uniqueness. 6. The Evaluation Process. 7. What Can Be Done? Medical Perspective. 8. What Can Be Done? Educational Perspective. 9. Additional Options. 10. Up Close and Personal. Resources. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisGrowing up with a sibling on the autistic spectrum can be difficult, and the needs of a child with autism often overwhelm a family, leaving neurotypical children feeling overshadowed. For the first time, the 'neurotypical' siblings get to have their say. They recount the good, the bad, and the downright annoying in a way that all young people in a similar situation will immediately recognise.Young siblings of all ages candidly recount how being 'the neurotypical one' can be tiring, frustrating, and lonely, but equally rewarding, and every story is injected with wisdom gained by young people who often have to grow up a lot more quickly than their peers. This book is essential reading for children and teenagers with a sibling on the autistic spectrum, and for parents wishing to understand how autism in the family will affect their neurotypical child.Trade ReviewSiblings: The Autism Spectrum Through Our Eyes... is a good read for parents and young adult siblings of children with autism. It offers wisdom of those who have gone before to those now dealing with the issues of having a sibling with autism. It is a concise, 94-page book that will help readers truly understand and appreciate those on the spectrum and how their brothers and sisters perceive their both positive and not-so-positive experiences of having a sibling on the autism spectrum. -- Journal of autism and Developmental DisordersMost of the reports are upbeat and hopeful. They include lists of do's and don'ts or pros and cons, poems and lessons learned. Young people and parents growing up in a family where there is a child with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) will gaining comfort, reassurance and knowledge from these stories... young people will enjoy the short, readable chapters. As one of the contributors, Alyssa says, "The most important job in life is not whatever career you pursue, but to be the best sibling you can be." This book will certainly help readers achieve this goal. -- Youth in MindI felt emotional through much of this book, in a bitter-sweet way because it exemplifies all that is wonderful about family... The message that having autism in the family brings out the best in each of us, permeates all the accounts and one senses it is genuine and not just a platitude. As the mother of someone on the spectrum I'd have to concur with each and every one of them. How proud all the parents must be of these children! -- AS TeensFor the first time, the 'neurotypical' siblings get to have their say...This book is essential reading for children and teenagers with a sibling on the autistic spectrum, and for parents wishing to understand how autism in the family will affect their neurotypical child... 'Sibling - The Autism Spectrum Through Our Eyes' Edited by Jane Johnson and Anne Van Rensselaer is an anthology of what it is really like to be a brother or a sister to someone on the spectrum. The book is divided into 2 sections containing a total of 19 chapters. Each contributor has sufficient space to recall their experiences and to write about what they consider important. Too many books contain just snippets of opinions which the authors use to champion their own voice and because their statements are kept in context there is less likely to be any misrepresentations of their views...Although the book is written principally for siblings, it is actually also very relevant to parents who feel as if they are desperately failing their other children. The book will more than likely to reassure them. The stories in this book very much corroborate the impressions I have formed about the difficulties and benefits of being a sibling to someone on the spectrum... This account is perhaps more honest and realistic in that it acknowledges the frustrations, embarrassment, a sense of being hard done by without having to counter such comments with an immediate positive. The contributor also mentions the times when their sibling was teased or tormented and they failed to act through fear of themselves becoming victims. I felt that these normal human failings were as essential as the positive presentations. Children need to understand that they will sometimes behave in a way that makes them feel guilty or ashamed. However, once again, the most upsetting thing mentioned was when the contributor's brother was teased and misunderstood... I felt emotional through much of this book, in a bitter-sweet way because it exemplifies all that is wonderful about family. It is about the paramount gift we all have when we share our lives with someone of difference and are forced to learn to accept and love each other, just because we are family, and we have no choice and THAT ultimately is a tremendous gift. The message that having autism in the family brings out the best in each of us, permeates all the accounts and one senses it is genuine and not just a platitude. As the mother of someone on the spectrum I'd have to concur with each and every one of them. How proud all the parents must be of these children (including the grown up ones!) -- bfkbooks.comTable of ContentsPreface. Part 1. For Younger Children and Parents. 1. Christopher Castaldi-Moller and Joshua Vazquez, Age 10. 2. Carley Belknap, Age 9. 3. Cassidy Parker Knight, Age 13. 4. Maya Cassandra King, Age 10. 5. Chandra Kelley-Robinson, Age 11. 6. Alyssa Chmura, Age 19. 7. Cami Poole, Age 10 11/12. 8. Ben Jepson, Age 13. 9. Chelsea Lang, Age 17. 10. Micah Quindazzi, Age 14. 11. Anonymous, Age 34. 12. Adam Barrett, Age 27. 13. Missy Olive, Age 41. Part 2. For Teenagers and Parents. 14. Susannah Chandler, Age 22. 15. Rebecca Sicile-Kira, Age 17. 16. Jenna Cohen, Age 24. 17. Lisa Cohen, Age 21. 18. Hannah Burke, Age 15. 19. Christine Hurd, Age 18

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Book SynopsisWhat is it like to grow up with a sibling on the autism spectrum? What kind of relationship do such siblings have? How does that relationship change as the siblings get older? In this moving collection of beautifully-written personal accounts, siblings from a variety of backgrounds, and in different circumstances, share their experiences of growing up with a brother or sister with autism. Despite their many differences, their stories show that certain things are common to the "sibling experience": the emotional terrain of looking on or being overlooked; the confusion of accommodating resentment, love, and helplessness; and above all the yearning to connect across neurological difference. Siblings and Autism is a thought-provoking book that will appeal to anyone with a personal or professional interest in autism, including parents of siblings of children on the spectrum, teachers, counsellors, and psychologists.Trade ReviewIt has something for everyone... It's the academia to xenophobia of autistic tales The book uses siblings of children with autism as sources of these tales, who are incredibly diverse in terms of their professions, approaches to the storytelling, and cultural perspectives. While themes vary from story to story, they are never over serious or over pious. The collection is here to remind us of the multiple faces of autism... as a description of sibling experience and role in autism, autism development, and intervention, and these are "things" I needed to know. -- Journal of Autism Developmental DisordersSiblings and Autism: Stories Spanning Generalisations and Cultures is the collected tales written by siblings of children with autism, told now by those siblings in their adulthood. It has something for everyone, including tales of institutionalisation as seen from the outside (Visiting Becky), to culture clashes (Life with Runi), to blood oxygenation (Autism Connects Us). It's the academia to xenophobia of autistic tales. The book uses siblings of children with autism as sources of these tales, who are incredibly diverse in terms of their professions, approaches to the storytelling, and cultural perspectives. While themes vary from story to story, they are never over serious or over pious. The collection is here to remind us of the multiple faces of autism. -- Journal of Autism and Developmental DisordersIt is very readable, the different approaches to story telling is like unwrapping a sweet and never knowing what will be inside, but knowing you will like it nonetheless. -- AS TeensThere is much to recommend and to learn in this important collection of voices. -- Handicaps InfoMoving and true-to-life, the essays are troubling and yearning, full of fear and also hope and in many cases, full of love and understanding too. A book for the whole family. -- healthyBooksEditors Debra Cumberland and Bruce Mills have compiled a moving collection of sixteen narratives by authors growing up with siblings who have autism... There is much to recommend and to learn in this important collection of voices. In "This Night Will Pass," Thomas Caramagno poetically reflects upon the development of his brother, whose family sought effective intervention and support: "Joe David has blossomed. As I look back over the years, I realize he had been slowly blossoming all along. It was I who underestimated him, and myself, for the capacity to find solace simply in being oneself." May this memorable set of stories help others do likewise. -- ForeWord ReviewsI really appreciate that this book addresses the siblings of Autistic kids. They are often overlooked and they need support in their unique role. I love that this book acknowledges that their lives ARE different from many of their friends. Having a sibling with Autism certainly changes the dynamic of a family. I enjoyed reading from the many different perspectives and seeing the unique ways in which various people coped with their Autistic siblings. I thought the book was well written and easy to understand. -- Tara's View on Books BlogTable of ContentsIntroduction. 'House on the Meadow', Catherine Anderson. 'Family Resemblance', Erika Nanes. 'Visiting Becky', Anne Barnhill. 'On the Way to the Sky', Katie Harrington Stricklin. 'Victim of Silence', Ann Damiano. 'Life with Runi', Aparna Das. 'Autism Connects Us', Matthew Belmonte. 'My Brother's Speaker', Debra Eder. 'We Were Beautiful, Once: My Autistic-American Family', Maureen McDonnell. 'Holding On', Lindsey Fisch. 'Our Family Has Two Hearts: Me and My Older Sister Ge', Helen McCabe and Chuan Wu. 'Robie', Erika Reich Giles. 'Everyone is Different', Cara Murphy Watkins'. 'Sisters Aren't Doing It for Themselves: Negotiating Special Identities in a Disabled Family', Alison Wilde. 'This Night Will Pass', Thomas Caramagno. 'Sirens', Debra Cumberland.

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Book SynopsisChildren with pervasive developmental disorders often do not learn from conventional methods, which can result in social isolation, behavior problems, limitations in communication, and slow academic growth. Greater integration into home and school activities, improved behavior and academic success can be achieved using alternative-augmentative communication (AAC), and this book explains exactly how to make it happen.Exploring the various communication and intervention options available and offering straightforward techniques and strategies for using them effectively, this book clearly explains everything families, teachers, therapists and other professionals need to know in order to improve a child's communication, behavior, social and academic skills. Chapters follow a consistent, user-friendly format, answering the questions Who, What, Why, How, Where and When about every technique.This book will be essential reading for anyone looking to improve social interaction between children with pervasive developmental disorders and those around them.Trade Review"Rising to New Heights of Communication and Learning for Children with autism: The Definitive Guide to Using Alternative-Augmentive Communication" explains the basics of using the new AAC approach to help autistic kids integrate home and school learning and perceptions. Any working with autistic children will find this packed with keys to explore and integrating a child's academic, communication, and social skills, with chapters offering plenty of case history examples of the entire process. Educators and parents alike will find this a fine pick! -- The Midwest Book ReviewThis easy to read book provides practical guidance into visual methods of supporting communication land learning for children with autism. It contains several useful diagrams and the layout is consistent... this is a good value, informative book. It would be a useful introductory resource for speech and language therapists and students, and would also be beneficial for families and other professionals. -- Speech & Language Therapy in PracticeBy providing a thorough overview of augmentative and alternative communication and visual strategies, this book explores the many communication options and possible interventions and provides specific guidance for using them successfully...This book is essential for families, teachers, therapists and professionals who seek to improve communication between children with PDD's and their relatives -- Handicap's InfoCarol Spears and Vicki Turner write clearly and simply and have given the reader a basic introduction to a wide range of possibilities for improving the communication of children on the autistic spectrum... I recommend this book... as it is written in a positive way and encourages everyone working with children with autism to try and use these ideas to improve the child's quality of life. -- Tizard Learning Disability Review.Table of ContentsIntroduction. Part 1: Alternative-Augmentative Communication Methods. Chapter 1. Speech Generating Devices (SGD). Chapter 2. Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). Chapter 3. Symbolic Language Systems. Part 2: Strategies to Support Learning. Chapter 4. Visual Supports. Chapter 5. Social Stories. Chapter 6. Structured Environments. Part 3: Resources. Chapter 7. Information on Related Topics. Appendix 1: National Organizations. Appendix 2: Goals and Objectives.

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Book Synopsis"Your child has autism" - four small words with the power to leave parents feeling helpless, overwhelmed, and confused. This concise, no-nonsense book will enable parents to regain control of the situation and take the first practical steps towards a calm and happy life with their newly-diagnosed child.Dr. Larson Kidd's approach draws from the vast amount of information available on parenting a child with autism and distils it into ten manageable steps. It covers the key aspects of life with a child on the autism spectrum, including the basics such as sleeping, eating, and toileting, through adapting the home, creating routines, and exploring therapy. Ready-to-implement strategies are outlined simply and clearly, and are firmly grounded in the author's extensive experience of supporting children with autism.This practical book will be essential and empowering reading for every parent whose child has recently been diagnosed with autism or for parents still struggling with where to begin to help their child.Trade ReviewA must for any parent overwhelmed by the new world they have entered into. -- The Midwest Book ReviewAs a generalist speech and language therapist working in community clinic I ground this slim book to be clear and structured with a friendly tone throughout... I have no doubts that many parents will find this a good starting point for early reading without being overwhelmed by jargon and theory. Undergraduate students and practising therapists may also find it a handy little book for immediate reference.The advice given is grounded within commonly known approaches. I found the sections on "visual support", "creating routines" and "simplifying areas in the home" particularly useful. Each chapter or "step" has a helpful "to learn more" section at the end with references for further reading. At £9.99 this book is good value for money. -- Speech & Language Therapy in PracticeI have to confess that when I first held this slim volume in my hand I wondered whether so few words could make a difference, but as the saying goes, "less is more". Dr Susan Larson Kidd has her finger entirely on the button. She offers tiny gold nuggets of support, arranged neatly in ten sections, which help everyone involved in supporting children on the autistic spectrum with everyday living and learning issues. Susan's no-nonsense approach to sleeping, eating and toileting can only be good news. There are sensible strategies to using visual supports, simplifying home and school and building basic support team... As an academic I was pleased to discover the depth of research underpinning this book. Especially rewarding is Susan's citation of Mahoney and McDonald, (2007) who show that parents have a greater impact on their child's development than any known professional. If parents spend, as a low estimate, just two hours of time interacting with their child daily, they will influence their child's progress two to three times more than any teacher or therapist! -- Montessori International MagazineThis slim volume is an ideal first read for parents and carers of children who have just found out about autism. Susan Larson Kidd's book demonstrates her years of experience in a forthright manner, avoiding jargon and with many practical examples, hints and tips... Many parents are completely overwhelmed and do what I did-hit the internet for information with thousands of entries, become distracted by the adverts down the side claiming cures-and experience anxiety. We're buried in information, too much. We need a primer and a starting point and that is what this book provides. -- Whitterer on Autism blogKidd's book, My Child Has Autism, Now What? is a terrific first step on the pathway to education and adaptation. A diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder is not the end of the world, but the beginning; Kidd's clear, matter-of-fact explanations of terms and ideas on how to teach and communicate with autistic children can make those first few weeks and months a positive learning experience instead of time wasted on confusion and guilt.... Kidd writes in a welcoming, conversational manner and includes further resources at the end of each chapter. Her book is less like a manual and more like a conversation; above all her advice is friendly and easy to follow. By focusing on the practical aspects of dealing with a diagnosis of autism instead of delving into extensive theory she keeps her book appropriate for family members and educators who are new to this arena and need concrete information to improve daily life. Her book is perfect for families on the cusp of a new world. -- ForeWord ReviewsI think this would be the perfect book to give to every parent right after they get the diagnosis. It is an excellent starting point. It is very practical and very user friendly. I wish I had been given this book after my son Aiden was first diagnosed with Autism! I had no idea what to do or where to start and this book provides that. It is well written and easy to read. Even if not every step relates to every case it is still a very handy guide... I would certainly recommend this book to anyone just starting out on the path of parenting an Autistic child. -- Tara's View on Books BlogTable of ContentsIntroduction: Beginning the Path. Step One: Help Your Child with Sleeping, Eating, and Toileting. Step Two: Help Your Child by Using Visual Supports. Step Three: Incorporate Sensory Integration Strategies. Step Four: Simplify Areas in Your Home. Step Five: Use Music to Help Your Child. Step Six: Create Routines. Step Seven: Take Your Child to Speech/Language Therapy. Step Eight: Start Educational Services. Step Nine: Start with the Basic Biomedical Interventions. Step Ten: Build a Support Team. Afterword: You Are on Your Way. Appendix A: Sensory Plan Format. Appendix B: Samples of IEP Goals and Services. Appendix C: Educational Services Information in the United States. Bibliography. Index.

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Book SynopsisChildren with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) often demonstrate significant deficiencies in social interaction and social communication skills, so it is critical to understand and develop interventions which directly address these needs. This book explores the core areas of ASD development and related deficits, and introduces a practical program to assess and remediate these social competency issues.This book addresses the primary issues of social development in children with ASD by emphasizing the underlying theoretical and pragmatic considerations. Dr. Cotugno employs concepts and theories of group therapy and cognitive-development and integrates them with skill-based instructional approaches to develop the comprehensive Social Competence Enhancement Program (SCEP). This peer-based, group-focused program is explained in detail, including a step-by-step guide to its implementation and a full range of tasks and activities that can be used by practitioners at each stage of the process.This book will be a valuable resource for teachers, clinicians and all other professionals working with children with ASD who are interested in using group interventions as a means to improve social competency and treat social skills deficits.Trade ReviewThis book resists becoming overly manualised through its emphasis on assessment-informed planning and the conceptual and theoretical structures that are referenced throughout. -- Child and Adolescent Mental HealthThe book is extremely and, potentially very usefully, detailed and provides plenty of support for very accurate, SMART target setting. -- NAPLIC Matters.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements. Preface. Part I. Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). 1. ASD: A Brief History. 2. Socialization, Social Competence, and Social Skills. Part II. Understanding Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). 3. The Core Areas of Development and Related Deficits of ASD. 4. Self-Regulation: A Core Variable. 5. Emotion Competence: A Core Variable. 6. Stress and Anxiety Control and Management: A Core Variable. 7. Attention and Joint Attention: Core Variables. 8. Flexibility, Change, and Transition: A Core Variable. 9. Perspective Taking: A Core Variable. 10. Relatedness: A Core Variable. Part III. The Use of Group Interventions in the Treatment of Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): The Social Competence Enhancement Program (SCEP). 11. Basic Principles in the Development of Social Competence and in Social Skill Building. 12. Joining Emotion Competence and Social Competence. 13. A Group-Based Therapeutic Model of Intervention for Children with ASD. 14. Assessment in the SCEP Model: Understanding Individuals with ASD. 15. Introduction to a Stage Model of Group Development for Individuals with ASD. 16. Stages of Group Development. Part IV. Social Competence Enhancement Program (SCEP) Tasks and Activities with Cheryl Desautels. 17. SCEP Individual and Group Goals for Tasks and Activities by Stages of Group Development. 18. SCEP Individual and Group Goals for Tasks and Activities by Core Areas of Development and Related Deficits in ASD. 19. SCEP Tasks and Activities Related to Stages of Group Development and Related Deficits in ASD. 20. Child and Group Leader Roles within SCEP Groups. Appendices. 1. Examples of Areas of Interest. 2. Examples of Individual Goals by Stage of Group Development. 3. Examples of Group Goals by Stage of Group Development. 4.1 Specific Skills Addressed at Stage 1. 4.2. Specific Skills Addressed at Stage 2. 4.3. Specific Skills Addressed at Stage 3. 4.4. Specific Skills Addressed at Stage 4. 4.5. Specific Skills Addressed at Stage 5. 4.6. List of Emotions for Emotion Recognition, Labeling, Understanding, and Regulation Tasks and Activities. 4.7. Glossary of Terms Used in SCEP. 4.8. A Summary of SCEP. 4.9. A Summary of the Stage Model of Group Development Used in the SCEP Approach for Individuals with ASD. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisMany teenagers with Asperger's Syndrome leave school feeling unsure of how to take the next steps in their lives. Leaving the comforts of home and facing the unknown can be daunting, but with the right support and advice these young adults can adapt and enjoy their newly-acquired independence.Filled with useful advice, easy-to-apply techniques, and insights from both the author's own experiences of Asperger's Syndrome and those of his students, this book is a practical guide for helping young adults on the spectrum achieve independence and learn life-long skills of self-knowledge, self-sufficiency, and self-advocacy. With chapters on social skills, handling finances, keeping healthy, and succeeding in higher education or first employment, Dr. McManmon provides the encouragement that any young Aspie needs to make the transition from an adolescent into a happy, confident and engaged adult.This book will be essential reading for parents, young adults with Asperger's Syndrome, high-functioning autism or learning differences, and any professionals who work with them.Trade ReviewMichael McManmon's book makes an outstanding contribution to the support, development and happiness of people on the autism spectrum. It is written with the parents of people with Asperger Syndrome in mind to help them understand how they can best help their children into adulthood. This book should certainly be studied by professionals employed in the field. The ideas are above all, practical and based upon experience. They do not depend upon expensive technology but on common-sense based upon observations and sympathetic understanding of the problem. It is written with that detail, insight and honesty which is only gifted to those with at least one foot in the spectrum. -- Paul Shattock, Chairman of ESPA and President of the World Autism Organisation, UKFinally, fellow spectrumite Michael McManmon has put his personal and professional success on paper. Having known Michael for almost a decade, it was a prior shame not to have the founder of the trailblazing College Internship Program share his 'recipes' with others. A must-read for the parents of emerging young adults on the spectrum. -- Michael John Carley, Executive Director of GRASP and ASTEP, and author of Asperger's From the Inside Out, USAMade for Good Purpose has a powerful set of tools based on Dr. Michael McManmon's personal experiences and insights as a self-advocate of Asperger's Syndrome. Dr. McManmon defines 'The Donkey Rule', which will be embraced by every reader, as he guides everyone on a path towards achieving their fullest potential. -- Lawrence P. Kaplan, Ph.D., Chairman of US Autism & Asperger Association, and author of Diagnosis Autism: Now What?For all the young people who come through our high schools, we must be their guides toward self-knowledge, self-advocacy, and self-determination. In order to do that well, we need the very best guides ourselves. Dr. McManmon is one of those guides, and this book gives us many tools and stories to inform our work. -- Michael G. McDonald, special educator, San Anselmo, California, USAI found this book truly inspirational (do remember I am British and do not say such things with ease). I thought that the context was exciting and hopeful whilst grounded in reality. It is a must have for parents who are fearful about, or at a loss about, how to help their aspie child move on and gain more independence... The book would be a useful addition to anyone supporting young people in further education and also for the more pro-active person with aspergers. The book is divided into 12 chapters and is extremely well written with a depth of information rarely seen in most self-help books and the material is enlivened and illustrated with relevant examples... this book... covers a lot of ground and gives many useful resources in the forms of photocopiable charts etc. I highly recommend this book but warn that is will leave many UK parents frustrated and wondering why we do not appear to have the equivalent provision over here. -- AsteensTable of ContentsForeword by Stephen Shore, Ed.D. Opening Statement. Introduction. 1. Understanding Your Diagnosis: The Power of Knowing. 2. Learning the Art of Letting Go: The Steel Umbilical. 3. Keeping it Real: The Donkey Rule. 4. Pulling it all Together: Executive Functioning. 5. Being in the Groove: Social Competency. 6. Having a Shoulder to Lean On: Social Mentoring. 7. Get a Job, Son: Internships and Community Service. 8. Handling Finances: Money Makes the World Go Round. 9. Feeling Fit, Groomed, and Fueled: Health and Wellness. 10. Learning the "Hidden Curriculum": Friendship then Love. 11. Learning Openness, Tolerance, and Diversity: Be Yourself... Everyone Else is Taken. 12. Moving Forward: The Genuine Evokes the Genuine. Epilogue. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisFinding a way of simultaneously addressing the sensory, motor, emotional, communicative, cognitive and social needs of children on the autism spectrum can be a real challenge, and choosing from the vast array of options available is a daunting task. This book provides a blueprint for an educational intervention program that is evidence-based, comprehensive in scope and integrative in its approach.Grouping techniques into five categories for discussion, the book examines autism spectrum disorders within a developmental context, and shows that interventions with autistic individuals are not only possible, but can be really successful. Specific intervention strategies and program examples for developing competencies in areas such as joint attention, sensory integration, motor functioning, impulse control, memory, self-awareness, theory of mind and empathy, abstract thinking, problem-solving, social skills and community engagement, are presented. Techniques for dealing with specific behavior problems are also examined, including toileting delays, temper-tantrums, and eating and sleeping problems, amongst many others.This book will be essential reading for families, teachers, and other professionals working with children with autism.Trade ReviewEducators and parents alike will find it extremely helpful as they navigate the often perplexing world of ASD. Addressing topics which include empathy, social engagement, communication, and attention, Whitman and DeWitt outline strategies that will enable caregivers to teach autistic children the skills they need to survive and thrive in a world that can be unforgiving in its demand for conformity.Whitman and DeWitt manage to strike the perfect balance between theory and practical advice… those who've gone past the overwhelmed stage and entered the determined stage will find enormous support. The authors are refreshingly matter-of-fact in their approach to autism and based solidly in the scientific camp. With their help, parents, educators, and children can all make great strides. -- Foreword MagazineDr. Whitman and Nicole DeWitt have produced a practical, evidence-based, 'must-have' resource for parents, providers and educators who work with children with autism. Key Learning Skills for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders cuts through the confusion of the myriad of options of interventions available. It distils everything down to those that are proven most effective. The specific program examples included are 'where the rubber meets the road' activities that can be readily implemented in the school, office and home. Use of the information presented in this book will lead to the development of a comprehensive, customized and powerful intervention program that meets the specific needs of any child on the autism spectrum. This book is truly a gift to the autism community and to all who endeavor to help children reach their full potential! -- Laura McGuire, M.D., family physician and mother of a child with autism, Indiana, USAHaving had the privilege of working with both Dr. Whitman and Nicole DeWitt, my son has experienced firsthand the benefit of the therapies discussed in this book. These therapies allowed me to chart my son's progress and not just 'guess' how he was doing week to week. We were able to build on skills he had already mastered and keep moving forward. I was able to see what skills to work on and train my tutors how to work with my son. Matching the program to the family, whatever the dynamic, will only ensure success to the individual. I feel besides early intervention, parent training is key to any successful program for an individual struggling with ASD. -- Myra Sweeny, parent of a child with autism, Indiana, USAWithin each chapter the authors offer step-by-step lesson plans that describe practical applications of these interventions to the specific problem area being addressed. Materials lists, action plans, and troubleshooting strategies are included in each program example, which grant the parent or teacher the best possible chances for a successful outcome. The plans are issued in clear directives and include props that are easy to find or make - no shopping trip necessary. Especially helpful are the troubleshooting sections; if readers run into a problem during a session, they have immediate suggestions on what to do differently. -- ForeWord MagazineTable of ContentsPreface. 1. Selection of Appropriate Interventions. 2. Interventions. 3. Core Learning Skills. 4. Emotion-related Problems. 5. Sensory Problems. 6. Sensorimotor Deficiencies. 7. Language and Communication Problems. 8. Cognitive Deficiencies. 9. Social Interaction Problems. 10. Self-regulation Deficiencies. 11. Behavior Problems, Developmental Challenges and Medical Issues. Index.

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Book SynopsisChildren need effective communication skills as a foundation for successful participation in activities at home, school and in the community. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders are often unable to learn social skills from environmental cues and require direct teaching and lots of practice.This collection of social communication cues will enable parents and professionals to help children with social development difficulties navigate their social world and enjoy interacting with their peers. Each section begins with a simple social rule; the reason why the child may be having difficulty in this area is explained; and easy communication prompts and practice ideas are provided. The younger these skills are practiced, the happier and more self-confident the child. This program is ideal for early intervention as it can be used with children aged 2 and up.This practical guide will be an essential resource for parents, teachers, speech-language pathologists, psychologists and therapists looking for a simple program for teaching social skills to young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.Trade ReviewThis is a book |'d love to have had twenty years ago, when speech and language therapy appeared to have given up on my daughter and I was desperately searching for any ideas that might help her. -- Afasic NewsUsing the activities described by author Tarin Varughese, children on the autistic spectrum will benefit from direct teaching in small groups. The book has checklists for social skills to ensure that each child's key deficits are correctly identified... I recommend this book to all parents, students and teachers who have concerns about social skills development. There are also many excellent tips for observation activities.'Montessori International, Wendy Fidler'As both a parent and a professional I have found this approach to be incredibly useful in breaking down the complexity of social exchanges. We often struggle for the right language to convey the unwritten rules of engagement. This program gives us the 'map' and consequently the confidence to help our children. I'm encouraged by the progress I have witnessed! -- Nicole Mank, Marriage and Family Therapist and parent of a child with Sensory Processing Disorder, CaliforniaAn in-depth look at social communication broken down into simplistic step-by-step instruction. While working with children/young adults presenting with pragmatic language disorder, I have found that Varughese's program offers a hierarchical approach to pragmatic coaching and lends itself to be useful for increasing the understanding and use of pragmatic language at any age. -- Michelle Harr, Speech-Language Pathologist, MichiganAs a clinician, I found Social Communication Cues for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Related Conditions to be an incredibly useful hands-on guide for working as a social coach with children of all ages. As a parent of a child with social delays, I found it to be a blueprint for daily exercises and vocabulary that I could use at home and share with teachers. [This book] is a must-read for anyone who wants social skill-building tools at their fingertips. -- Jennie Kaufman Singer, Ph.D., Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Assistant Professor, Sacramento State University, CaliforniaIt is divided into seven easy to dip into sections - initiating social interaction, maintaining social interaction, body positioning, perspective taking, visual modality, emotional regulation and developing humour. For each skill she gives between five and ten rules, for instance "a child needs to learn to initiate asking for help", "children need to develop the ability to think about the likes and dislikes of others". The reason for each rule is explained concisely, and suggestions given for the words for teachers and SENCos to use, along with helpful tips. -- NASEN Special MagazineThis is an interesting and potentially useful book. -- NAPLIC MattersThe book is written clearly and succinctly in easy to read style... the book provides practical suggestions for areas of social and emotional wellbeing that are frequently forgotten. Although the book describes the importance of working on these areas for children on the Autism spectrum the ideas could apply to any child with emotional/behavioural or language difficulties. -- Emma Baldwin, Speech and Language Therapist, Avon.Table of ContentsIntroduction. 1. Initiating Social Interaction. Rule 1: Greeting Others. Rule 2: Initiating Joint Attention. Rule 3: Asking for Help. Rule 4: Responding to Comments. Rule 5: Sharing Ideas/Accomplishments. Rule 6: Asking Questions. Rule 7: Getting Clarification. Rule 8: Asking Someone to Play. Rule 9: Initiating Conversation. Rule 10: Repairing Misunderstandings. 2. Maintaining Social Interaction. Rule 1: Small Transitions. Rule 2: Large Transitions. Rule 3: Maintaining Play. Rule 4: Turn-Taking. Rule 5: Watching Peers at Play. Rule 6: Organizing Play. Rule 7: Deciding who Goes First. Rule 8: Negotiating. Rule 9: Navigating a “Bump in the Road”. Rule 10: Exiting a Game. 3. Body Positioning. Rule 1: Staying with the Group. Rule 2: Exiting the Group. Rule 3: Body Positioning. Rule 4: Using your Words not your Body. Rule 5: Requesting and Waiting for the Answer. Rule 6: Personal Space. 4. Perspective Taking. Rule 1: Thinking about Others. Rule 2: Use of Pronouns. Rule 3: Positioning of Objects/Items. Rule 4: Effecting Emotions of Others. Rule 5: Acknowledging Comments. Rule 6: Reading Body Cues. Rule 7: Clarifying “Why Are you Laughing?”. Rule 8: Expressing Empathy. 5. Visual Modality. Rule 1: Listening with Eye Contact. Rule 2: Speaking with Eye Contact. Rule 3: Using Eyes to Ask Yes/No Questions. Rule 4: Entering Play Already Underway. Rule 5: Localizing Sound with Eyes. Rule 6: Shifting Eye Gaze when in Group. Rule 7: Using Eye Gaze to Track. 6. Emotional Regulation. Rule 1: Understanding Likes/Dislikes. Rule 2: Tone of Voice. Rule 3: Understanding one's own Emotions. Rule 4: Understanding Emotions of Others. Rule 5: Appearance of Emotions on Self. Rule 6: Emotional Situations. Rule 7: Embarrassment. Rule 8: Human Relatedness. 7. Development of Humor. Rule 1: Understanding Rules of Laughter. Rule 2: Power of Humor. Rule 3: Literal v. Nonliteral Language. Rule 4: Experimenting with Humor. Rule 5: Effect of Humor on Others. Social Skills Check List. Bibliography.

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Book SynopsisApplied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is recognized as one of the most effective ways to teach children with autism and studies have shown that the earlier the interventions take place the more likely they are to have a profound, positive impact on a child's later development.Using the latest research into best practice for children with autism, this curriculum gives a clear outline on what to teach and how to teach it utilizing the principles of ABA. The book is divided up into three sections, each with built-in data collection, and features a CD with all the material in the book so you can print off the section you are working on. The Assessment section allows you to initially measure the child's level of learning and then track their progress over time. The Curriculum section covers nearly ninety crucial steps in a child's development spread over twelve chapters that each focus on a different pivotal area, such as 'Motor', 'Expressive' and 'Academic' Programs. These are broken down into simple tasks that can be taught and monitored easily. The final Mastered section guarantees that progress can be maintained by checking that learnt skills continue to be retained. Generalization assessment is included throughout to make sure the child has adapted to using the skills in a variety of settings.This book will equip teachers, therapists and parents with a thorough and comprehensive program to help ensure the young learners in their care are achieving developmental goals and are able to reach their full potential as they grow.Trade ReviewThere are various helpful programmes (basic, behaviour, motor, receptive, expressive, action, communication, intra-verbal, play, self-help, sort/match and academic)... I am confident that if you could "try before you buy it" you would almost certainly end up buying it, and you would not be disappointed. -- eye (early years educator)Lindsay Hilsen has gifted us with a wealth of useful forms and helpful information for pre-intervention assessment, monitoring progress during treatment and the follow-up assessment of newly learned skills... Hilsen focuses on socially important behaviors to enable the child to achieve greater independence and interact more effectively with others.... She also emphasizes the importance of generalization, which is often forgotten....[This book] will be a valuable addition to the library of anyone working with young children, whether they employ an ABA approach or something else. -- Albert Kearney, clinical psychologist and author of Understanding Applied Behaviour AnalysisLindsay Hilsen was my son's BCBA therapist during the most crucial window of time for him to learn. My son is one of the more challenging children on the spectrum...there are no quick fixes or special diets that will provide him with a miracle cure. For my child, it took a highly trained and skilled therapist who follows a strong ABA curriculum. Many will benefit from Hilsen's book. This is a proven guide that works. -- Mother of a boy with Autism Spectrum DisorderA "must" for any parent or teacher working with an autistic child. -- The Midwest Book ReviewTable of ContentsDedication Page. Acknowledgements. Introduction. About the Author. 1. ASSESSMENT. 1.1. Choosing programs to work on. 1.2. Assessment Directions. 1.3. Total Percentages.1.4. Assessment Section Example. 1.5. Quiet Hands. 1.6. Attending.1.7. Responds to Name. 1.8. Eye Contact. 1.9. Pointing Program. 1.10. Responds to Various Directions to Identify an Object/Picture/Item. 1.11. Wait Program.1.12. Transition. 1.13. Desensitization to Touch. 1.14. Desensitization to the Dentist. 1.15. Desensitization to the Doctor's Office. 1.16. Desensitization to Getting Haircuts. 1.17. Clean Up.1.18. Gross Motor Imitation. 1.19. Motor Imitation. 1.20. Fine Motor Imitation. 1.21. Oral Motor Imitation. 1.22. Color Between the Lines. 1.23. Copy Straight Lines. 1.24. One Step Direction. 1.25. Two Step Directions. 1.26. Receptive Identification of Pictures. 1.27. Receptive Identification of Objects. 1.28. Receptive Identification of Body Parts. 1.29. Receptive Identification of Articles of Clothing. 1.30. Receptive Identification of Familiar People. 1.31. Receptive Identification of Emotions. 1.32. Receptive Identification of Community Helpers. 1.33. Receptive Identification of Environmental Sounds. 1.34. Expressive Identification of Pictures. 1.35. Expressive Identification of Objects. 1.36. Expressive Identification of Body Parts. 1.37. Expressive Identification of Articles of Clothing. 1.38. Expressive Identification of Familiar People. 1.39. Expressive Identification of Emotions. 1.40. Expressive Identification of Community Helpers. 1.41. Expressive Identification of Environmental Sounds. 1.42. Receptive Identification of Actions. 1.43. Expressive Identification of Actions. 1.44. Imitates Actions of Others. 1.45. Imitation of Two Step Actions. 1.46. Pretends to do an Action. 1.47. Point to Communicate. 1.48. Yes/No. 1.49. Manding. 1.50. Requests with Eye Contact. 1.51. Gets Attention of Others. 1.52. Says Bye. 1.53. Says Hi. 1.54. Imitation of Sounds. 1.55. Uses different words to request. 1.56. Common Animal Intraverbals. 1.57. Common Intraverbals. 1.58. Daily Activity Intraverbals. 1.59. Social Questions. 1.60. Puzzle. 1.61. Shape Sorter. 1.62. Plays By Self. 1.63. Various Methods of Play. 1.64. Ball Play. 1.65. Plays with Indoor Toys. 1. 66. Outdoor Play. 1.67. Uses Language While Playing. 1.68. Sings Songs. 1.69. Games. 1.70. Pretend Play. 1.71. Drinks from a Cup. 1.72. Uses a Spoon. 1.73. Uses a Fork. 1.74. Getting Dressed: Shoes. 1.75. Getting Dressed: Pants. 1.76. Getting Dressed: Shirt. 1.77. Wash Hands. 1.78. Dry Hands. 1.79. Match Identical Picture to Picture. 1.80. Match Identical Object to Object. 1.81. Match Object to Picture. 1.82. Sort Identical Items. 1.83. Sort Non-Identical Items. 1.84. Receptive Identification of Colors. 1.85. Expressive Identification of Colors. 1.86. Receptive Identification of Shapes. 1.87. Expressive Identification of Shapes. 1.88. Receptive Identification of Upper Case Letters. 1.89. Receptive Identification of Lower Case Letters. 1.90. Expressive Identification of Upper Case Letters. 1. 91. Expressive Identification of Lower Case Letters. 1.92. Rote Count. 1.93. Count Objects. 1.94. Receptive Identification of Numbers. 1.95. Expressive Identification of Numbers. 2. CURRICULUM. 2.1. Curriculum Directions. 2.2. Curriculum Section Example. 2.3. BASIC PROGRAMS. 2.3.1. Quiet Hands. 2.3.2. Attending. 2.3.3. Responds to Name. 2.3.4. Eye Contact. 2.3.5. Pointing Program. 2.3.6. Responds to Various Directions to Identify An Object/Picture/Item. 2.4. BEHAVIOR PROGRAMS. 2.4.1. Wait Program. 2.4.2. Transition. 2.4.3. Desensitization to Touch. 2.4.4. Desensitization to the Dentist. 2.4.5. Desensitization to the Doctor's Office. 2.4.6. Desensitization to Getting Haircuts. 2.4.7. Clean Up. 2.5. MOTOR PROGRAMS. 2.5.1. Gross Motor Imitation. 2.5.2. Motor Imitation. 2.5.3. Fine Motor Imitation. 2.5.4. Oral Motor Imitation. 2.5.5. Color Between the Lines. 2.5.6. Copy Straight Lines. 2.6. RECEPTIVE PROGRAMS. 2.6.1. One Step Direction. 2.6.2. Two Step Directions. 2.6.3. Receptive Identification of Pictures. 2.6.4. Receptive Identification of Objects. 2.6.5. Receptive Identification of Body Parts. 2.6.6. Receptive Identification of Articles of Clothing. 2.6.7. Receptive Identification of Familiar People. 2.6.8. Receptive Identification of Emotions. 2.6.9. Receptive Identification of Community Helpers. 2.6.10. Receptive Identification of Environmental Sounds. 2.7. EXPRESSIVE PROGRAMS. 2.7.1. Expressive Identification of Pictures. 2.7.2. Expressive Identification of Objects. 2.7.3. Expressive Identification of Body Parts. 2.7.4. Expressive Identification of Articles of Clothing. 2.7.5. Expressive Identification of Familiar People. 2.7.6. Expressive Identification of Emotions. 2.7.7. Expressive Identification of Community Helpers. 2.7.8. Expressive Identification of Environmental Sounds. 2.8. ACTION PROGRAMS. 2.8.1. Receptive Identification of Actions. 2.8.2. Expressive Identification of Actions. 2.8.3. Imitate

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Book SynopsisVideo modeling takes visual learning to the next level by using new technologies to create an effective teaching tool. This book explains how professionals and parents can use innovative video modeling techniques to support the development of young children with autism spectrum disorders in school, home or community settings.Offering practical step-by-step guidance, the book shows how to film and edit personalized videos that highlight the exact skill that is being taught. Whether the focus is increasing attention, peer interaction, getting dressed or creative play, these videos are easy to incorporate into daily routines. They allow the child to learn new skills quickly and with less hands-on adult support leading to greater independence. Three video modeling strategies are presented – Basic Video Modeling, Video Self-Modeling and Point-of-view Video Modeling – along with all the information needed for readers to start using the techniques for themselves. The research behind the approach is also discussed and each chapter includes detailed case studies that demonstrate the techniques in action.Trade ReviewThe book lives up to its claim of being suitable for both parents and professionals, It is well organised into chapters explaining three main approaches to video modelling - basic video modelling, video self-modelling and point of view modelling... I personally found the book inspirational and am keen to start using these techniques where possible. -- Special ChildrenThe technique is well described in the book Video Modeling for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders by Sarah Murray and Brenna Noland. The authors explain how parents can target a change in a learner's behaviour, increasing the effectiveness of demonstrating a skill or routine on video. As well as teaching new skills, it's possible to increase the frequency of positive behaviours that are already part of a child's repertoire... For children who just love watching themselves on video, this technique can be particularly effective. -- Autism EyeOne of the best things about this book is that there are plenty of practical strategies and ideas that can be used instantly, without too much expense or preparation. Video Modelling is all about using new technologies to create an effective teaching tool. If you would like to know how to film and edit personalised videos that help to highlight a particular skill that is being taught, this is the book for you. From helping children to increase a child's focus an attention to peer interaction, getting dressed and undressed, creative play, calming down, circle time, or other such classroom routines, this book talks you through step-by-step.'Early Years Educator (eye)'Inspiring and comprehensive real-life examples make this book an excellent and valuable 'how-to' guide for applying this evidence-based practice in the education of preschool-aged children with autism. This should be highly recommended reading for parents, teachers and all healthcare professionals dedicated to improving the quality of life of these children. -- Dr Christos Nikopoulos, BCBA-D, Lecturer, School of Health Sciences and Social Care, Brunel University, and co-author of Video Modelling and Behaviour Analysis: A Guide for Teaching Social Skills to Children with AutismThe methods described in this book have been life changing for my three-year-old son and our family. We started with appropriate play videos, moved to self-care routines (getting dressed, brushing teeth, haircuts), focused sharply on safety videos (holding hands, staying with a parent), and are now using video modeling to help with his transition to pre-school. The videos have provided our son with the visual and audio aids that he needs and craves in order to be successful. The changes in his behavior have been nothing short of amazing. -- Wendy Gilbertson, mother of a child with an autism spectrum disorder, MinnesotaAs a special education teacher and autism specialist, I find this book to be an invaluable resource! The user-friendly format is an easy read, and it is full of practical strategies that can be used immediately, without a lot of preparation. I have utilized video modeling for individual skills as well as group routines, and the results are impressive. -- Christina Reynolds, autism specialist, Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools, Prior Lake, MinnesotaSarah Murray and Brenna Noland's book is timely as the use of technology to support the learning of individuals with autism spectrum disorders has rapidly grown due to the increased availability and decreased cost of technological equipment. This book, written by practitioners in the field, provides actual case studies that demonstrate how to realistically use video modeling. The case studies include a variety of skills and routines across multiple settings including home, community, and school. If you are thinking about implementing video modeling in your practice with young children, this book is a valuable tool. -- L. Lynn Stansberry Brusnahan, PhD, Associate Professor, School of Education, University of St. Thomas, Minnesota, and 2012 recipient of the Dr. Cathy Pratt Autism Professional of the Year Award from the Autism Society of AmericaOne of the most challenging aspects of parenting two children with (very different) Autism Spectrum Disorders is the variety of opinions on methods of treatment; from ABA to DIR/Floortime to RDI, as parents we seek to try anything that might help us navigate this uncharted territory. The beauty of video modeling is that it works, across the spectrum, in teaching our children appropriate behaviors in a way that makes sense and brings results. Over the course of the last six years our family has been blessed to work with both Brenna Noland and Sarah Murray, and their wonderful book is a clear 'how to' manual for addressing challenging behaviors and helping our children. So straightforward and helpful, this book will be my first gift to parents of newly-diagnosed children with ASD. -- Christina Kellaway-Loescher, mother to Shay (8, autism) and Kitty (10, Asperger syndrome), MinnesotaTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Introduction. 1. Basic Video Modeling (BVM). 2. Video Self-Modeling (VSM). 3. Point-of-view Video Modeling (PVM). 4. Review of Current Research on Video Modeling. 5. Other Uses of Video-Recording Devices. Appendix A: Which Type of Video Modeling Should I Use? Appendix B: Sample Outlines for Planning and Creating Videos. Appendix C: Sample Data Collection Forms. References. Index.

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