Autism Spectrum Disorder Books

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 SynopsisInside Asperger's Looking Out follows in the best-selling footsteps of Kathy Hoopmann's All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome and All Dogs Have ADHD. Through engaging text and full-color photographs, this book shows neurotypicals how Aspies see and experience the world. Each page brings to light traits that many Aspies have in common, from sensitive hearing and an aversion to bright lights and strong smells, to literal thinking and difficulty understanding social rules and reading body language and facial expressions. At the same time, the book highlights and celebrates the unique characteristics that make those with Asperger's Syndrome special. This is the perfect introduction to the world of Aspies, told from their own perspective, for the people in their lives: including family, friends, and classmates. Those with Asperger's Syndrome will also appreciate this book for the way it shares their own singular perspectives on life.Trade ReviewThis is the perfect introduction to the world of Aspies, told from their own perspective, for the people in their lives: including family, friends, and classmates. Those with Asperger's Syndrome will also appreciate this book for the way it shares their own singular perspectives on life. -- Centre 404, IslingtonThrough engaging text and full-colour photographs, this book shows neurotypical how Aspies see and experience the world. This is the perfect introduction to the world of Asperger's, told from their own perspective, for the people in their lives: including family, friends, and classmates. -- Books from our backyard, Queensland Writers Centre, AustraliaSimplicity is key for me and I think that is why I love this book so much. The words that Kathy Hoopmann uses are not condescending or derogatory, but respectful and trying to get NT's (neuro-typical people) to understand how and why we live our lives the way we do. The words on each page are fact - as seen in diagnostic manuals, but are put into more friendly terms... Inside Asperger's is a must read book for those with AS, parents and people who work with AS patients. -- A Female Reviews Blogspot blogThis bright and positive book is written with the emphasis that being different is a great way to be. The book addresses the many differing characteristics, struggles, and strengths of people with Asperger's. The text provides the reader with the opportunity to adopt and better understand the perspective of children with Asperger's. It could be a useful resource for people with Asperger's as well as for people living with and working with this population. The goal of acceptance as well as understanding is demonstrated by easy-to-read and entertaining text and pictorial illustrations. -- Virginia Child Protection NewsletterThis book should not only appear in those classes which have Aspies (their own preferred term) among their number because it is an invaluable book fo all KS2 teachers and children to share. -- The SL (School Librarian)Kathy has worked with children with Asperger syndrome for many years and her books explain, through the use of engaging photographs, the world as it may appear to those with different learning and social traits. -- SNIPBy the author of All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome and All Dogs Have ADHD, this engaging book, told with little text and comic animal photographs, nevertheless imparts quite complex information on what makes a child with Asperger's syndrome tick. A great way to help children understand it. -- The TeacherEven though I have several friends with children with Asperger's, I found this book gave me a fresh insight into the challenges faced by Aspies and their families. I think it is a perfect book to have on hand in both the home and school environments to help explain common Asperger's traits such as hypersensitivity to sounds and visual stimuli anddifficulty interpreting facial cues and body language. I particularly liked the focus on highlighting the positives of the Asperger's experience, encouraging readers to consider Aspies as simply viewing life in a different way but still sharing the same hopes, dreams and needs as anyone else... I would highly recommend this book as a very helpful resource forschools, daycare centres, preschools and for families with children with Asperger's to help friends and family gain insight and understanding into this condition. -- Kids Book ReviewIn a few words the text on each page succinctly explains what it is like to have Asperger's syndrome and the illustrations will engage and delight children, parents and those who have Asperger's syndrome. However, I think this book should come with a government health warning - you may laugh until you hurt! -- Tony Attwood, Minds & Hearts Clinic, Brisbane, Australia, and author of The Complete Guide to Asperger's SyndromeThis book is a visual feast of information on Asperger syndrome and the autism spectrum. Simple, yet complex information is shared with a genius for visual expression. I recommend this lovely book to all who wish to better understand individuals on the Asperger-autism spectrum. Kathy Hoopmann scores another home run! -- Susan J. Moreno, CEO and Founder of MAAP Services for Autism and Asperger SyndromeMost of us see the world from the point of 'what will others think', and we adjust our view accordingly. Kathy helps us take another, much more honest look, as she exposes the black and white but very colourful world of the Aspie. This book shows that being different is the most normal way to be. That being one's self is an adventure not to be missed. This is a book we should all read and have and celebrate. -- Dr Wendy Lawson, author of Life Behind Glass: A Personal Account of Autism Spectrum DisorderInside Asperger's Looking Out is a wonderful, whimsical portrait of Asperger's told with pictures and animals that anyone - young or old - can love. It is destined to be a classic, just like Kathy's earlier book, All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome. -- John Elder Robison, author of Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger's

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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 SynopsisGunilla Gerland's extensive experience of the autism spectrum means she is expertly placed to offer a fresh perspective on working with autism as well as a wealth of effective tools and interventions to use in practice. In a highly readable style, with many inspiring examples, this book offers original explanations of the impairments associated with autism, showing how to discover the root cause of behaviours that are challenging, not just how to manage them superficially. It looks objectively and non-judgementally at the common pitfalls and difficulties that autism professionals may encounter, explaining how to deal with these and transition to more effective working relationships. An important section on ethics and reflection equips the reader with the knowledge and skills needed to grow professionally in the field. Packed with original insights and practical, hands-on tools and strategies, this is essential reading for teachers, teaching assistants, support workers, counsellors, social workers and anyone else working with individuals of any age on the autism spectrum.Trade ReviewThe sections on empathy, ethics, moral competence and reflection are particularly informative. Entertaining and inspiring anecdotes to entertain, amuse, educate and inform are scattered throughout this book. I give it a ringing endorsement. -- Nursing StandardGunilla Gerland has developed an unusually insightful, "hands-on" approach to psychoeducational assessment and intervention in Asperger syndrome, an approach that is not only theoretically sound but also readily applicable in real life situations. In this book she shares this wisdom in a highly readable and well-structured way...It is a must for all teachers, relatives and friends of people with Asperger syndrome and related autism spectrum disorders. It should also be required reading for all autism specialists. -- Christopher Gillberg, MD, PhD, Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Gothenburg, Sweden, and Institute of Child Health, UKIt is rare to find a book like this, with pages so packed with insights and well-exampled ways of getting all practitioners not only to understand their charges with autism but also to understand themselves and thus to modify their practices. I have spent a lifetime trying to help this population, but this book inspired me to want to start again, to see if I could improve my own practice as well. It is truly an exceptional and much-needed text. -- Professor Rita Jordan, Emeritus Professor in Autism Spectrum Disorders, University of BirminghamGunilla Gerland uses her professional experience and amazing first-hand knowledge of what it is like to be autistic to give a guide to the education and care of autistic people. It is an authoritative guide, but it is also fun to read. The book is bursting with vivid examples. This is crucial as every individual case is different and needs to be understood in depth before any kind of intervention or trouble shooting can be effective. But there is not only talk of problems and troubles and how they can be overcome. There is also a celebration of people who know they are different and people who are genuinely tolerant of differences. Gunilla generously shares her extensive and imaginative toolkit, and above all she shows how a combination of critical knowledge, basic humanity and sound common sense can make special education special. -- Professor Uta Frith, Emeritus Professor of Cognitive Development, University College London Institute of Cognitive NeuroscienceTable of Contents1. Helping the Helper Help. A preface of sorts: about me, why and for whom. Section I: The Professional Role...which deals with interactions and reflects on professionalism. 2. The Framework and Ideologies - a chapter on how it can be a constructive action to smash a window. 3. Same Same but Different - a chapter for everyone but especially for those who have previously worked in psychosocial treatment settings. 4. Just doing your job or being a true professional? A chapter with some thoughts about what professionalism could mean. 4.1. Awareness, Development and Change. 4.2. Making right and doing wrong. 4.3 Empathy, ethics and moral competence. 4.4. Some ideas. 5. Remove the cake even if you don't think it's ready: Common pitfalls for staff - A chapter on things you would rather avoid. 5.1. Pitfall 1 and 2: Falling into another role (than the professional) - "Parent" or "Buddy". 5.2. Pitfall 3: That's the way he wants it! 5.3. Pitfall 4: Prohibit or allow - this is not the question! 5.4. Pitfall 5: Steering the will of others. 5.5. Pitfall 6: Excessive empathy. 5.6. Pitfall 7: Lack of empathy. 5.7. Pitfall 8: Universal truths. 5.8. Pitfall 9: "We know this". 5.9. Pitfall 10: More normal than normal. 5.10. Pitfall 11: The gender trap? 5.11. Pitfall 12: Good aids that no one uses. 5.12. Pitfall 13: "What if everybody...?" 5.13. Pitfall 14: Other children will never accept... 5.14. Pitfall 15: Normality produces quality of life. Section II: Understanding the Impairments...which deals with the symptoms we often see and what may cause them. 6. "You never know if orange juice will taste like orange juice." A chapter on sensory processing issues. 6.1. The visual perception. 6.2. The tactile perception. 6.3. The auditory perception. 6.4. The olfactory sense. 6.5. The sense of taste. 6.6. Balance. 6.7. Proprioception - "Muscle and joint sense". 6.8. Interoceptive senses. 6.9. Synaesthesia. 6.10. Sensory integration problems. 6.11. Desensitization (Habituation). 6.12. Different is not always a problem. 6.13. How do we know, what do we do? 7. The man with two left feet - a chapter on motor skills. 7.1. Motor automization. 7.2 Other motor difficulties. 7.3. Practical implications. 8. One person may be of many ages. - a chapter on the development perspective. 8.1. Mentalization in practice. 9. Say what you mean and mean what you say - a chapter on communication. 9.1. Language comprehension poorer than verbal expression. 9.2. Echolalia. 9.3. Truths, lies and subtext. 9.4. To announce your actions. 9.5. Literal language comprehension. 9.6. Lack of "auto correction". 9.7 "Attitude". 9.8. Restorative Communication. 9.9. Repetitive communication. 10. Living without a spare gas can - a chapter on energy and stress. 10.1. The drop excavates the stone (and the straw that broke the camel's back). 10.2. Stress and stress management. 10.3. Sleep. 10.4. Time Perception. 11. I don't give a damn about the chores! A chapter on cognition. 11.1. Executive functions. 11.2. Working memory. 11.3. Categorization. 12. The short and boring chapter - a chapter on definitions, incidence and other things you may want to know, but which are of little help little in practice. 12.1. Definition. 12.2. Incidence. 12.3. Causes. 12.4. Criteria. 12.5. Work-up. Section III: The Change Process...which is an important element of the craftsmanship. 13. Can we make a deaf person hear better by setting limits? A chapter on punishment of "violations", and consequences of action. 13.1. Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes. 13.2. Truth and Consequence. 13.3. Making the professional "environmental friendly". 13.4. Avoid a financial crisis on the trust account. 13.5. The development of mature strategies - how does it come about? 14. CRAP - a chapter with thoughts on the use of Confirmations or Rewards, the idea of being Affirmative, and why Punishments do not work. 14.1. Attribution. 14.2. Penalty marking is banned! 14.3. A/C - Affirm and Confirm. 15. Diving lessons in the ocean - a chapter on how to make assessments and analyses. 15.1. Assessment. 15.2. Analysis and hypothesis. 15.3. Intervention plan. 15.4. Evaluation. 15.5. Documentation. 15.6. Troubleshooting or "HELP - it does not work!" 15.7. Finally, about assessments. 16. An underwater guide - a chapter on common contributing factors in challenging behaviours. 16.1. Self-esteem. 16.2. Ability to envision/imagine. 16.3. Developmental perspective and Theory of Mind (mentalization). 16.4. Communication. 16.5. There and then, here and now: When someone fights or injures himself. 17. The danger of focusing on the behaviour itself - a chapter about what could happen if you do not learn to dive. Section IV: Practical Intervention. 18. The toolbox - an introduction to the tools. 19. Not having to learn to be "as others" - a chapter on adjustments. 20. Inform more - and well! A chapter on how we can work with information as a tool. 20.1. The individual - "I do not have any bloody autism!" 21. Written, drawn and other visual aids - an important chapter on matters that too many get too little of! 21.1. Choices and ability to envision. 21.2. Informed choices. 21.3. Stress, overview and time. 21.4. TEACCH. 21.5. Social stories and comic strip conversations. 21.6. Nag-free information. 21.7. The time model. 21.8. Five point scale. 21.9. The Clothes-according-to-temperature-thermometer. 22. Talk, gab and babble, and a little about how to play - a chapter on how to use conversation as a tool. 22.1. Conversations for "landing". 22.2. Solution-focused conversations. 22.3. Furnishing. 22.4. Conversations in group. 22.5. Younger children: play skills. 22.6. Rule play. 23. Can you be yourself when you do not know who you are? A chapter on working with self-knowledge and self-esteem. 23.1. Thought - Feeling - Action. 23.2. Getting your reality confirmed. 23.3. Positive feedback. 23.4. Balance of power. 23.5. Better communication skills break powerlessness. 24. Methods and approaches - a short chapter about some specific techniques that may be useful. 24.1. Social stories and drawn conversations. 24.2. Solution-focused methods. 24.3. Cat-kit. 24.4. CBT. 24.5 Motivational interviewing. 25. Tips, tricks and gadgets - a final chapter for filling your toolbox. 25.1. Learning to shop. 25.2. Structure in the fridge. 25.3. Belt bag. 25.4. Smart phones and apps. 25.5. Brushing teeth and hygiene. 25.6. Other stuff. 26. Finally...the last chapter. 27. But wait a minute, was not the previous chapter the last chapter? References. Index.

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Book SynopsisCertain characteristics of autism, such as difficulty understanding social cues, may make women vulnerable to potentially dangerous situations. Robyn Steward has written this supportive guide to help all women on the autistic spectrum live independently, make their own choices in life, and be safe whilst doing so.This book will provide you with the knowledge to recognise potential risks to your personal safety and the skills and strategies required to avoid and overcome them. Informed by a survey of, and interviews with, women on and off the autistic spectrum, it explores common safety issues encountered by women and offers practical advice to help you stay safe and supported in your independence. Topics covered include friendships, relationships and sex, alcohol and drugs, money and employment and staying safe outside the home and online.This handbook is your guide to super safe living as an independent woman and will help you to stay safe whilst living life to the full. It may also be of interest to your family, friends and carers, giving them insight into life on the spectrum and confidence that you will enjoy your independence in an informed and safe manner.Trade ReviewPacked with "autism alert cards" and references that will prove key to the safety of any woman struggling with autism and independence. -- The Midwest Book ReviewIt does not matter how bright a young person on the spectrum is, you cannot send them out into the world without skills for living, loving and resilience. Robyn's book comes framed with experience and the personal knowledge that autism does not stop with childhood… Knowledge keeps us all safe… This is a book everyone who works with teenagers and young adults with autism should have as a reference and it forms an essential resource for women with autism providing the kind of insight only a woman on the spectrum could provide. -- Lynne Moxon, Chartered Psychologist who teaches socio-sexual skills, Senior Lecturer, University of NorthumbriaRobyn has written a brilliant, no nonsense, straight-talking guide in how to navigate the daunting world of people and relationships - not just the obvious stuff, but the subtle things that women on the autistic spectrum are likely to stumble into trouble with. This is a useful book for women themselves and those looking out for them. -- Sarah Hendrickx, Hendrickx Associates, freelance trainer and consultant in autistic spectrum conditions, author of several books on Asperger syndromeA woman on the autism spectrum who lives in a big city such as London has perhaps an intensified need for clarity in the issue of safety, and an insight others might not possess. Like the underground system she loves, Robyn Steward has created the equivalent of a “color-coded tube map” to help you navigate a variety of situations. But this is more than just a list of dos and don'ts – Robyn's intelligent, yet clear and personable voice makes it a compelling and enjoyable read. -- Rudy Simone, author of Aspergirls, 22 Things a Woman Must Know If She Loves a Man with Asperger's Syndrome and 22 Things a Woman with Asperger's Syndrome Wants Her Partner to KnowThis book provides a how-to-guide for spotting unsafe situations while offering concrete tips for safer living for women on the autism spectrum. Spoken from the voice of a young woman with autism, readers will be given practical strategies for navigating socially vulnerable relationships and situations – a useful tool for helping independent women living on the spectrum stay safe. -- Dr Elizabeth Laugeson, author of The Science of Making Friends, Assistant Clinical Professor, UCLA, Founder and Director, UCLA PEERS ClinicRobyn has addressed the subject of safety for women on the autistic spectrum in a very creative way. She is open and honest when discussing sensitive topics and has collected together a wealth of practical, common sense information based on her experiences and of others on the autistic spectrum. Of particular interest is her chapter on the internet and digital information sharing which is currently very relevant for any woman, not just those on the spectrum. This book is a must read for helping woman navigate the social complexities of life. -- Dr Judith Gould, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Director of the NAS Lorna Wing Centre for AutismRobyn Steward covers important issues of daily life including friendship, sex, alcohol, the Internet, money, and mental health, providing information to help you make informed decisions about your actions...This is an excellent book for any woman on the autistic spectrum, and for anyone who loves or supports a woman with autism. -- Asperger UnitedSteward, a 26-year-old autistic woman, is an autism trainer, mentor, consultant, and artist. She begins her first nonfiction work with an explanation of her "nothing is too basic" approach, explaining that everyone learns differently. She discusses how certain characteristics of autism (literal thinking and difficulty reading social cues) can create vulnerability in potentially dangerous situations. Using an online survey, which questioned people both on the spectrum and not, she obtained information about matters pertaining to safety, such as friendship, relationships and sex, alcohol and drugs, money and employment, and staying safe outside the home and online. VERDICT To the nonspectrum reader, much of this work may seem painfully naive. But that, in essence, is Steward's point, and she succeeds admirably at educating her audience in matters of personal safety. An invaluable resource for autistic individuals as well as those who live and work closely with them. -- Library JournalTable of ContentsThe Purpose of this Book. Important Information. About Me (The Author). Introduction: How Does Being On the Autistic Spectrum Affect Safety Issues?. 1. Platonic Friends. 2. Sex. 3. Romantic Relationships. 4. Drugs, Alcohol and Other Substances. 5. Preparing to Go Out. 6. Internet, Mobile Devices and Digital Information Sharing. 7. Money. 8. Work. 9. Mood. 10. Useful Skills and Strategies for Multiple Situations. Appendix A: Record Sheets for Reporting Abuse. Appendix B: Erogenous Zones Diagram. Final Thoughts. 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 provides a complete picture of how non-physical and physical interventions can be used to manage behaviour and keep children with autism spectrum disorders or emotional, social and behavioural difficulties safe.With clear advice and strategies that can be easily implemented in practice, Steve Brown explores various options and interventions, and explains how professionals can manage the behaviour of children (aged 3-18) in the safest possible way, promoting assertiveness and confidence. He includes a range of de-escalation and behaviour management strategies, information on risk assessments and legalities, advice on how to create safe spaces, insight into non-verbal communication and positive listening, and an honest and open discussion about the important role of physical interventions and positive handling techniques.Providing clarity and insight into this complex subject, this book will allow professionals working with children and young people with ASD or ESBD to use non-physical interventions with confidence and understand the role of physical interventions as a last resort, within a legal framework.Trade ReviewThis straight-talking and often humorous guide to managing the behaviour of children and young people with ASD bursts with practical strategies that are conveyed in a wholly accessible style and founded on the knowledge and skills of a highly experienced practitioner. Acknowledging the challenges of supporting young people with ASD, Brown also tackles the thorny issue of physical interventions, providing clear guidance within the legal framework. -- Chris Collett, Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Education and Care, Newman University, BirminghamSteve Brown has written an engaging and accessible book about techniques that staff (and parents) can use both to manage constructively and to prevent some of the more difficult situations that can arise when supporting children and young people on the autistic spectrum. Steve draws on his own extensive experience as an educator as well as on the research literature. The tactics are well described and relatively straightforward to apply in many situations. This is a very useful book to have around if you live or work day to day with youngsters on the autism spectrum whose behaviour involves a significant risk of harm. -- John Clements, clinical psychologist and author of Letters to the Home Front and People with Autism Behaving BadlyTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. ASD and Behaviour. 2. De-escalation. 3. Environment. 4. Language strategies. 5. Visual strategies. 6. Behaviour Management. 7. Legalities, risk assessments and guidance. 8. Restrictive Physical Intervention and Positive Handling. Appendix – Risk Assessment.

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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 SynopsisThis complete guide to LEGO® Therapy contains everything you need to know in order to set up and run a LEGO® Club for children with autism spectrum disorders or related social communication difficulties and anxiety conditions.By providing a joint interest and goal, LEGO® building can become a medium for social development such as sharing, turn-taking, making eye-contact, and following social rules. This book outlines the theory and research base of the approach and gives advice on all practical considerations including space, the physical layout of the room and choosing and maintaining materials, as well as strategies for managing behaviour, further skill development, and how to assess progress.Written by the pioneer of the approach alongside those who helped form it through their research and evaluation, this evidence-based manual is essential reading for professionals working with autism who are interested in running a LEGO® Club or learning more about the therapy.Trade ReviewThe best kind of therapy is when it's so much fun that the child doesn't know it's happening. LEGO®-Based Therapy fits that bill. The authors have left no stone unturned in developing a systematic social intervention. They provide a comprehensive, step-by-step program with documented improvements in social competence. -- Lynn Koegel, PhD, Clinical Director, Koegel Autism Center, University of California, Santa Barbara, CAEveryone loves LEGO® - including children on the autism spectrum. But did you know that through playing with LEGO® in a social setting you can draw out autistic children's hidden ability to cooperate with others? Here is a practical guide to making players come together and create together by the sheer magic of LEGO®. -- Professor Uta Frith, Emeritus Professor of Cognitive Development, Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College LondonA marvellous book that focuses on using a frequent interest as a way of access. It will be of interest to parents and educators alike. -- Fred R. Volkmar, MD, Irving B. Harris Professor of Child Psychiatry, Pediatrics, and Psychology, and Director, Yale University Child Study Center, New Haven, CTLEGO® pieces can be used to construct models, but can also be used to construct social skills. LEGO®-based Clubs will become increasingly popular with children who have an Autism Spectrum Condition as an enjoyable social activity that is actually therapeutic. -- Tony Attwood, PhD, Clinical Psychologist, Minds & Hearts Clinic, Australia, and author of The Complete Guide to Asperger's SyndromeThe book on LEGO-Based Therapy defines a particular therapeutic approach. It is a 'social development programme' according to its authors, and its aim is to provide a social development intervention for children with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASCs). It is a 'collaborative therapy in which children work together to build LEGO models'... LEGO-Based Therapy teaches turn taking, sharing, making eye contact when needed and social rules adherence (using greetings)...Children are encouraged to swap roles and tasks and engage in intelligent conflict resolution and social problem solving with very little adult intervention. -- Action for AspergersIt goes on to give guidance on how to set up a group, the day to day running and resources, how to assess pupils suitability, assessing progress as well as the environment. The book contains templates to use to support your LEGO® groups as well as great tips... I found the book incredibly useful and more accessible than the LEGO® therapy manual. As county trainer it is a book I regularly recommend to all the schools I support in setting up LEGO® based interventions as their go to guide. -- Nicki Jennings, County Trainer * SEBDA (Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties) *This book is primarily a manual for thosewishing to set up a LEGO-based club withcomprehensive information and resources foreach step. It also details research regardingLEGO building as a useful medium for socialdevelopment... This book also makes interesting reading foranyone concerned with building socialcompetence in children with autism and relatedconditions since it clearly demonstrates, boththrough research and anecdotal accounts, waysin which this can be achieved... -- Gemma Roxanne West, Student Play Therapist * BAPT - Play Therapy *LEGO®-Based Therapy is a social development intervention for children with autism. It has been specifically designed to focus on these children's strengths in a social context and to make learning fun. This well-researched book is for professionals working with children on the autism spectrum or any child who needs to improve their social communication skills... The basic idea is that children work together in a group to put lego sets together. This encourages skill such as social communication, social support, social problem solving and conflict resolution skills... The authors have outlined effective strategies to do this, and highlighted some ineffective ones to avoid. -- Sarah Combe, teacher and Senco * Special Children *This is the long awaited manual, which clearly outlines the delivery and rationale for the use of LEGO®-Based Therapy to support pupils with autism spectrum disorders or related conditions in developing their social interaction skills. written by the pioneer of the approach, Dr. Daniel B LeGoff... the authors ... offer advice on the selection and storage of materials..., positive behaviour management... the book will prove to be an invaluable guide to practitioners, ranging from child, clinical and educational psychologists to teachers, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists who wish to set up their own LEGO®-Based Therapy. -- Miranda Andras, specialist teacher for children with autism spectrum conditions * GAP - Good Autism Practice *Table of Contents1. Introduction. 1.1. The Development of LEGO® Therapy. 1.2. Group Therapy: The LEGO® Club. 2. Implementing LEGO® Therapy. 2.1. General Principles. 2.1.1. What is LEGO® Therapy? 2.1.2. Who is LEGO® Therapy for? 2.1.3. What qualifications do you need to run LEGO® Therapy groups? 2.1.4. The main principles of LEGO® Therapy. 3. LEGO® therapy levels of intervention. 3.1. Level One – Individual Therapy. 3.1.1. Pivotal Skills. 3.1.2. Therapeutic Activities for Building Pivotal Skills. 3.1.3. Building Skills. 3.2. Level Two – Collaborative Building with One Peer. 3.2.1. Collaborative Set Building. 3.2.2. Collaborative Freestyle. 3.3. Level Three – Collaborative Building with Two Peers. 3.3.1. Set Building. 3.3.2. Freestyle Building. 3.4. Level Four – Social Communication. 3.4.1. Individual Therapy. 3.4.2. 'Check-in'. 4. Structure of a LEGO® Therapy Group Session. 4.1. Initial greeting. 4.2. Group review and discussion. 4.3. Role and task assignment. 4.4. Group-based semi-structured activities. 4.5. Less structured, creative time. 4.6. Clean-up time. 4.7. Farewell and parent review. 4.8. Planning and evaluating the sessions. 5. Effective and Ineffective Procedures in LEGO® Therapy. 6. Behavior Management and Rewards. 6.1. LEGO® Club Rules. 6.2. LEGO® Points. 6.3. Use of Time-Out. 6.4. “Rules of Cool”. 6.5. The LEGO® Club Level System. 6.6. LEGO® Levels. 6.6.1. LEGO Helper. 6.6.2. LEGO Builder. 6.6.3. LEGO Creator. 6.6.4. LEGO Master. 6.6.5. LEGO Genius. 7. Setting up your own LEGO® therapy groups. 7.1. The Permanent LEGO® Room. 7.1.1. Physical Layout. 7.1.2. Establishing the Structure. 7.2. Temporary Set-Up. 7.3. Portable Materials. 8. Specific Materials and Arrangements. 8.1. Choosing Materials: sets with instructions. 8.2. Choosing Materials: freestyle LEGO®. 8.3. Maintaining Materials. 9. Assessment Procedures. 9.1. Initial Assessment. 9.1.1. Initial Interview. 9.1.1.1. Building a small set. 9.1.1.2. Free-style building. 9.2. Initial Observation in Natural Setting.9.3. Follow-Up Assessments. 9.4. Termination/Graduation. 10. Conclusion. References. Appendix A. LEGO® Therapy Intake Assessment. Appendix B. Structured Observation. Appendix C. Lego Therapy Log and Session Plan and Evaluation.

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Book SynopsisHow do the sights, smells, and sounds of a city affect the senses of people with an Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)?Sandra Beale-Ellis explores the sensory benefits and challenges of cities for people with an ASC and invites readers to understand the different ways in which they can experience a city from a sensory perspective. Sandra, who has been clinically diagnosed as having Asperger's Syndrome, describes how she experiences the city through the lens of ASC, picking up on things that a neurotypical (non-autistic) person might not. As well as introducing the wonders of the city that neurotypical people rarely see, this book also provides readers who have an ASC with solutions to the negative or overwhelming sensory experiences that a city can bring about. The book covers four main areas of city life: travel, eating out, entertainment and living.Trade ReviewThrough the eyes, ears, nose and mind of one autistic woman, Sensing the City takes us on a vividly described and detailed journey through urban landscapes. Sandra highlights many of the tiny elements that make autistic life both stressful and magical on a moment by moment basis. -- Sarah Hendrickx, Autistic Adult and Autism ConsultantThis book makes it clear just how important sensory sensitivities can be to an autistic individual. Whilst these are usually seen in a negative light, the author stresses the positive aspects as well, and in doing so, follows in the footsteps of Temple Grandin and others. -- Nick Chown, author of Understanding and Evaluating Autism TheoryTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. Making Sense of Autism. GETTING AROUND. 2. Streetwise. 3. Come Fly With Me. 4. Derailed. 5. Aquatics. EATING OUT. 6. Food and Drink Revealed. 7. I Love a Plate. 8. Where and When. 9. People Make a Difference. CITY LIVING. 10. Home From Home. 11. At One with Nature. 12. Retail Therapy. 13. Relax. 14. Body Beautiful. 15. Health is Vital. ENTERTAINMENT. 16. Showbiz. 17. In the Dark. 18. Fancy a Drink? 19. Cultured History. 20. Living a Theme. 21. Thrill of the Crowd. Conclusion. References. Resources.

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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 SynopsisThis graphic novel re-telling of Kathy Hoopmann's best-selling Blue Bottle Mystery brings the much-loved fantasy story to life for a new generation of readers. The hero is Ben, a boy with Asperger Syndrome (AS). When Ben and his friend Andy find an old bottle in the school yard, little do they know of the surprises about to be unleashed in their lives. Bound up with this exciting mystery is the story of how Ben is diagnosed with AS and how he and his family deal with the problems and joys that come along with it.Trade ReviewBlue Bottle Mystery is not just a solid exercise in taking an already successful work and re-imagining it for a new readership but also an object lesson in how to adapt material in a way that makes full use of the exclusive storytelling potential of the comics form. We need to see far more graphic medicine aimed at a younger readership like this that never patronises its target audience but informs and elucidates through the remarkable communicative power of sequential art. -- Broken FrontierIt's short and sweet, pretty fun on its own merits, but even better because it teaches about a group of kids on the autism spectrum who are often misunderstood. Rating: Pretty Darn Good. -- Newbery and BeyondIf you're looking for a short, yet intriguing read - either for yourself or for kids and younger siblings - I would definitely recommend this. -- Books Biscuits and TeaThis is a book that offers an explanation of aspects of Asperger's Syndrome in a fun way making it accessible to a wide range of readers, especially those (on the spectrum or not) who have a particular passion for visuals... All in all this is a perceptive, optimistic story that artfully weaves information relating to the condition throughout. It should find a place on the classroom shelves of all primary schools and in lower secondary libraries: those who read it will one hopes come away with a greater understanding of what it is to be 'an aspie'. Let's hear it for individuality and difference, and the way such characteristics can enrich the lives of us all. -- Red Reading HubI found this graphic novel both an absorbing story and an excellent way to try to better understand people with Asperger syndrome... I like the information boxes that are interspersed with the dialogues to help the reader understand situations from the point of view of someone with Asperger syndrome. -- Juno MagazineThis book is fun! I learnt a bit more about Asperger Syndrome. Would I recommend it to other kids? I sure would. I think they would understand it as well as me. -- Bobby Elley, aged 12 * Aukids *Readers will come away with a valuable understanding of Asperger's, both through the text and the very clear illustrations. -- Anne Harding * The School Librarian Journal *Table of Contents1. Miss Browning-Lever. 2. The bullies. 3. The blue bottle. 4. Lotto. 5. What to buy. 6. Growing up. 7. The mysterious smoke. 8. The genie's bottle. 9. Asperger's. 10. Sue. 11. The new house. 12. The house-warming party. Epilogue: One year later.

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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 SynopsisFilled with strategies and advice, this empowering guide presents practical ways to improve the mental wellbeing of people on the Autism Spectrum. This helpful guide focusses on the specific difficulties that can arise for people on the autism spectrum who may also experience a mental illness. The book includes information on common mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, as well as strategies for improving sleep patterns and mindfulness. Providing guidance on the benefits and drawbacks of therapy pets, medication, and psychotherapy, the authors offer balanced perspectives on treatment options and introduce self-help strategies tailored to meet your needs and improve your mental wellbeing. A number of short personal narratives from people on the autism spectrum and mental health issues illustrate the text. The book also includes a list of resources, books and organisations that can provide further support and inspiration.Trade ReviewThis book is more than just another resource tool for those of us living with an Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). It is a guide book for all those bumps in the road that offer a variety of options and confuse us or catch us unawares. It takes our mental health threats and draws a map to aid navigation around or through these. Its clear and concise explanations plus practical application make it a must have for anyone living with and supporting ASC individuals. -- from the foreword by Wenn Lawson, PhD, CPsychol, lecturer, and author of Older Adults and Autism Spectrum ConditionsThis guide lives up to my high expectations and the authors' wisdom continues to guide my practice and challenge what I understand about autism. In my opinion, this is an essential resource for not only the person affected but also the people in their lives. -- from the foreword by Kirsty Dempster-Rivett, MSocSci PGDip Psych (Clin.)This book provides a treasure trove of information for people on the autism spectrum who face a range of mental health issues. It is accessible in terms of ease of reading, provides useful information regarding interventions, strategies, peer mentoring and self-management. It is an important addition to the field and provides a positive focus on this critical topic. -- Professor Sylvia Rodger AM, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of QueenslandFor individuals with autism and mental health conditions, this self-help book empowers the reader with the information necessary to improve their lives. This book also needs to be read by neurotypicals for the exceptional insight into the autistic mind. I especially liked the thorough information regarding the importance of pets as therapy. This is a MUST READ! -- Anita Lesko, BSN, RN, MS, CRNA, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, Autism Advocate, Author, Speaker, Diagnosed with Asperger's at age 50Finally, a much needed contribution to the literature on autism and mental health. Incredibly readable, this is a self-help book for adults across the spectrum to understand, manage and improve their mental health. A practical resource, dense with information and strategies, it covers many aspects of mental health, all of which are woven into the rich tapestry of the author's personal experience. The stories shared give this book another dimension by providing valuable insights into supporting those with Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), making it an essential companion for families, friends and mental health professionals. -- Gillian Chappé de Léonval,Family Support Advisor, Autism Asperger ACTTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. Diagnosis. 2. Anxiety Disorders. 3. Depression. 4. Self-harm. 5. Suicidal thoughts. 6. Psychosis. 7. Communication problems. 8. Stigma and discrimination. 9. Family incidence of autism and mental illness. 10. Strategies to aid sleep. 11. The value of pets. 12. Mindfulness. 13. Psychotherapy. 14. Medication. 15. Crisis measures. 16. Self-esteem and self-confidence. 17. Resilience. 18. Summary of strategies to maintain mental health. 19. Resources.

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Book SynopsisCompletely revised and updated, this book focuses on sensory perceptual problems as identified by individuals on the autism spectrum. Despite frequently being identified by individuals with autism as one of the main problems they face, sensory perceptual issues are still often overlooked by professionals. The author covers the sensory perceptual experiences and sensitivities seen in autism spectrum conditions, and the cognitive differences caused by them. She considers assessment and intervention, and makes practical recommendations for selecting appropriate methods and techniques to eliminate sensory perceptual problems and enhance individual strengths. Brought up-to-date with current research and the latest thinking on autism, this book enables teachers, parents, professionals and individuals with autism fully to understand and address the problematic aspects of the sensory perceptual differences of people with autism spectrum conditions.Trade ReviewWith the expertise of a lifetime in the field, Dr Olga Bogdashina weaves the latest research, decades of practice and powerful intellect into a tapestry of understanding for improving assessment and education with easy-to-implement practical solutions for addressing sensory issues. A must-read for educators, parents, clinicians, scientists and anyone wishing to deepen their understanding of what it means to have autism. -- Stephen Mark Shore, Ed.D., Clinical Assistant Professor of Special Education, Adelphi UniversityThe author is a driving force behind the UK branch of the International Autism Institute and is Associate Consultant (Autism) to the European Institute of Child Education and Psychology...this book is very researched and, at the same time, readable. The section on recommendations provides some very interesting insights and also questions some established intervention protocols by explaining situations in which they may not be effective. This book will be of interest to those working or living with autistic people or with Asperger Syndrome seeking practical methods and techniques to eliminate sensory perceptual problems and enhance individual strengths. -- Mary Mounstephen * SEN Magazine *Table of ContentsForeword. Preface to 2nd edition. Introduction to the Problem. 1. The Role of the Sensory Perceptual Differences in Autism. 2. Perception. 3. Possible Sensory Experiences in Autism. 4. Perceptual Styles 5. Cognitive Styles. 6. Other Sensory Conditions. 7. Treatments. 8. Sensory Perceptual Profile. 9. Recommendations: Rainbows and Umbrellas. Conclusion. Appendix 1: Sensory Profile Checklist Revised (SPCR). Appendix 2: Photocopiable Rainbow and Table. References.

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Book SynopsisUnderstand and support executive function in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) with this fully-explained, innovative model. Showing how to use an individual's strengths to address executive functioning weaknesses, this approach will also help to build a strong foundation for social and communication skills.Advocating a person-centred approach, the author describes the importance of identifying the individual's preferred style of engagement and communication, and how sensory experiences impact their thoughts, feelings, and actions. She explains how to use this information to identify the individual's strengths and weaknesses across eight key areas which are the building blocks of executive functions: attention; memory; organization; time management; initiative; behavior; goal setting and flexibility. These areas can be used daily to establish predictability and offer a foundation for interpreting, processing and understanding the world with flexibility. Professionals and parents can also use them as the basis of an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), or to create personalized interventions and support at school or at home.Trade Review[Paula Moraine] gives readers a completely fresh take on many aspects of interacting with children who have autism, including the way they process their environments, the "languages" they invoke to interact with that environment, and the large role that executive functioning plays in both. The information in this book is woven together seamlessly to produce new and creative ways to think about familiar topics. This book will enhance even highly trained professionals' understanding of autism. -- Heather Powell, Ph.D., PsychologistThe descriptions of thinking from an individual with autism are excellent; I felt like I was talking to my patients. They give the reader a unique insight into the way of thinking of a person with an autistic spectrum disorder, allowing them to dispel any misconceptions they may have. The information in this book is clear, well-organised and offers practical solutions to common problems in the autism population. -- Eric Q. Tridas, Director and Developmental Pediatrician, The Tridas Center for Child Development, FloridaHow do you teach executive function skills when any deviation from a preferred routine is frightening and chaotic? Paula Moraine helps us to understand the autistic viewpoint, and shows us how to open the door to executive functioning through the use of Autistic Access Points. An essential guidebook for all those who work with students on the spectrum. -- Janet Price, co-author of Take Control of Asperger’s Syndrome: The Official Strategy Guide for Teens with Asperger’s Syndrome and Nonverbal Learning Disorder, and Take Control of Dyslexia and Other Reading Difficulties: The Ultimate Guide for KidsFor the first time I have a comprehensive and practical resource to guide my understanding of my son's experience with executive function as a child with autism. Paula Moraine's work offers powerful insight and readily applicable concepts to empower all parents, teachers, care givers, and professionals as they embrace someone living with ASD. The book's concept of Autistic Access Points has unlocked countless barriers for my child making it possible for him to establish, build, and maintain effective executive skills. Paula Moraine's new paradigm gave me the capability to emphasize his strengths and build upon his talents opening infinite possibilities I could not imagine before reading this book. -- Michelle Shramek, educator and parent of a child with Autism Spectrum DisorderTable of ContentsPreface. Introduction. 1. The Autism Kaleidoscope. 2. Salutogenesis and Sensory Coordination. 3. Autistic Languages and Communication. 4. Unlocking the Executive Functions through the Autistic Access Points. 5. The Executive Function Map - Making the Kaleidoscope Coherent. Conclusion. Appendix: Pia Hämäläinen's personal description of her experience as an autistic adult. Glossary. References. Index.

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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 SynopsisSelf-injurious behavior occurs in almost half of those with autism and is one of the most devastating and challenging-to-treat behaviors. There are many different forms of self-injury, such as head banging, hand biting, hair pulling, excessive scratching, and much more. With contributions from the leading experts in research and treatment, the book provides a comprehensive analysis of self-injurious behavior (SIB) in people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or related developmental disabilities, and the different methods available to treat them. Medical and behavioral researchers have studied SIB for over 50 years, but many practitioners and parents are still unfamiliar with the wide range of contributing causes and treatment options. Beginning with an explanation of SIB and its various forms, the contributors outline the many possible underlying causes of self-injury, such as seizures, hormonal imbalance in teenagers, gastrointestinal conditions, allergies, and stress, and show how a multi-disciplinary approach when uncovering the causes of self-injury can lead to successful treatment strategies. They explain the treatment options available for SIB, including nutritional, medical, psychiatric, sensory, and behavioral approaches, and show how an integrative approach to treating self-injury may be effective for many individuals. The book will be an invaluable addition to the bookshelves of any practitioner working with people with an ASD or related condition, as well as parents and direct care providers.Trade ReviewAn essential resource for parents, teachers, and health care providers who work with individuals with self-injurious behavior. -- Temple Grandin, author of Thinking in Pictures and The Autistic BrainThe root of self-injurious behaviour can be different for each person on the autism spectrum. An individualized approach, considering all options and combinations of treatments, provides the best chance for a healthy and happy life. This book is long overdue. -- Laurie Mawlam, Executive Director, Autism CanadaThis is a "must read" book for all practitioners who interact with families affected by autism. Many of the authors whom Dr. Edelson has brought together in this impressive volume have dedicated much of their adult lives to the treatment of people with autism, and they know just how devastating and difficult to treat self-injurious behavior can be. While it is important to study the causes of ASD, it is equally important to identify and treat co-occurring conditions that jeopardize the longevity and quality of life of affected individuals. This is an important step in bringing awareness to the larger community about self-injurious behavior as a critical issue in ASD. -- David G. Amaral, Ph.D., Research Director, The MIND InstituteSelf-injurious behaviors, a not-uncommon family of conditions in autism, vary in severity and are sometimes very damaging to the body. Typically, they are difficult to treat. Understanding and Treating Self-Injurious Behavior in Autism, edited by Dr. Stephen M. Edelson and Jane Botsford Johnson, is an important effort to advance knowledge regarding these poorly understood and challenging behaviors that receive inadequate scholarly attention. In this volume, Edelson and Johnson insightfully bring together experts from diverse clinical and research backgrounds who discuss general medical, neurological, genetic, and pharmacological issues that can contribute to causation of self-injurious behaviors, as well as different therapeutic approaches that may be useful in specific clinical contexts. This work communicates current knowledge regarding self-injurious behaviors and advances our understanding in this important area of medicine. Understanding and Treating Self-Injurious Behavior in Autism is highly recommended for clinicians who care for persons with such behaviors and for researchers interested in learning diverse perspectives on the field. -- Marvin Natowicz, MD, PhD, Clinical Geneticist, Clinical Pathologist Pathology & Laboratory Medicine Institute, Cleveland Clinic Cleveland, OHThis immensely valuable book guides us through multiple potential target etiologies of self-injurious behavior for effective treatment. Thoughtfully assembled and edited, it represents a much-needed practical and integrative handbook of use to every practitioner who works with individuals with autism spectrum and related disorders. I whole-heartedly recommend it! -- Robert L. Hendren, D.O., Professor of Psychiatry, University of California, San FranciscoTable of Contents1. Self-Injurious Behavior: A Multi-Causal, Challenging-to-Treat Set of Behaviors. Stephen M. Edelson, Autism Research Institute, United States. 2. Targeted Medical Therapies and Self-Injury. Mary Coleman, Foundation for Autism Research, United States. 3. Self-Injurious Behavior and Aggressive Behaviors in Autism: Looking Below the Surface. Margaret L. Bauman, Boston University School of Medicine, United States. 4. Self-Injurious Behavior, Aggression and Epilepsy in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Manuel F. Casanova and Emily Casanova, University of South Carolina, Greenville, United States. 5. A Neuropsychiatric Model for Evaluating and Treating Self-Injurious Behavior in Autism. Paul Millard Hardy, Autism Research Institute, United States. 6. Examining the Impact of Medication Side Effects on Problem Behavior. Jamie D. Bleiweiss, Hunter College, United States. 7. Self-Injurious Behaviors in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Impact of Allergic Diseases. Harumi Jyonouchi, Saint Peter's University Hospital (NJ), United States. 8. Medical and Nutritional Approaches to Treating Self-Injurious Behavior and Aggression in Autism Spectrum Disorders: 15 Case Studies. John Green, Evergreen Center (OR), United States and Nancy O'Hara, Center for Integrative Health (CT), United States. 9. Dietary and Nutrition Intervention to Address Self-Injurious Behavior in Autism: Thoughts from 5 Years of Clinical Care. Kelly M. Barnhill, The Johnson Center for Child Health and Development (TX), United States. 10. Sensory Processing Disorder and Self-Injurious Behaviors. Lucy Jane Miller and Karen Misher, Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation, United States. 11. Assessment and Intervention for Self-Injurious Behavior Using Positive Behavior Support. Lauren J. Moskowitz, St. John's University, United States, Caitlin E. Walsh, University of Colorado School of Medicine, United States and V. Mark Durand, University of South Florida St. Petersburg, United States. 12. Using Functional Communication Training to Treat Self-Injurious Behavior. V. Mark Durand, University of South Florida St. Petersburg, United States, and Lauren J. Moskowitz, St. John's University, United States. 13. Assessment and Intervention for Self-Injurious Behavior Related to Anxiety. Lauren J. Moskowitz and Alexis B. Ritter, St. John's University, United States. 14. A Stress-Reduction Approach to Addressing Self-Injurious Behavior in Individuals with Autism. June Groden, Leslie Weidenman, and Cooper R. Woodard, The Groden Centre (RI), United States.

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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 SynopsisCompelling and witty, Liane Holliday Willey's account of growing to adulthood as an undiagnosed 'Aspie' has been read by thousands of people on and off the autism spectrum since it was first published in 1999. Bringing her story up to date, including her diagnosis as an adult, and reflecting on the changes in attitude over 15 years, this expanded edition will continue to entertain (and inform) all those who would like to know a little more about how it feels to spend your life `pretending to be normal'.Trade ReviewSome of the best insights that helped came from reading books written by people on the spectrum. Liane Holliday Willey's insights will be especially helpful for many women on the spectrum. -- Temple Grandin, Author of The Autistic Brain and Thinking in PicturesLiane's original book Pretending to be Normal gave such important insights into how women with Asperger's syndrome used coping strategies in an attempt to fit into the neurotypical world. This updated version not only gives further insights but more importantly rather than "pretending to be normal" Liane points out that it is better to recognise that having Asperger's syndrome is acceptable and society should celebrate differentness. Finding the balance with appropriate support enables people with Asperger's syndrome to function in both the Aspie and neurotypical worlds. The appendices are brilliant in that Liane gives practical tips in supporting and managing Asperger's syndrome in all aspects of life. This book will be highly recommended by me to all those who have or do not have a diagnosis of Asperger's syndrome. -- Dr Judith Gould, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Director of the NAS Lorna Wing Centre for AutismWith Pretending to be Normal, a collective sigh of relief was heaved, a burden was lifted and laid down. The puzzle that had perplexed us was given a name, Asperger's, and women on the spectrum found their voice, some of us for the first time. -- Rudy Simone, author of Aspergirls, 22 Things a Woman Must Know If She Loves a Man with Asperger’s Syndrome and 22 Things a Woman with Asperger’s Syndrome Wants Her Partner to KnowPretending to be Normal was one of the first books I read about women and Asperger syndrome. It was then and still is the book I always recommend to the female clients I see. Liane is a star, her determination, strength and courage are a shining light within the AS community. This second edition is full of new insights and information. A must read for anyone who wishes to understand more about the complex world of women and Asperger syndrome. -- Maxine Aston MSc, Consultant, Trainer and Author of several books on Asperger syndrome and relationshipsWilley's classic Pretending to Be Normal has been a most eloquent way to understand what it feels like to have Asperger's. As beautifully written as it is insightful, this expanded edition is even more powerful due to the addition of a multitude of helpful suggestions and resources. -- Martin L. Kutscher, MD, author of Kids in the Syndrome Mix of ADHD, LD, Autism Spectrum, Anxiety, Tourette’s and More: The One Stop Guide for Parents, Teachers and Other Professionals and ADHD: Living without BrakesTable of ContentsDedication. Foreword by Tony Attwood. Author's Note. Introduction. 1. Remembering When 2. The Gap Widens and Wondering Why 3. Losing My Way 4. A Slow Walk Home 5. Crossing the Bridge 6. Rocking My Babies 7. Settling In, But Never Down. 8. Pretending a Little Less. Appendices: I Explaining Who You Are to Those Who Care. II Survival Skills for AS College Students. III Employment Options and Responsibilities. IV Organizing Your Home Life. V Coping Strategies for Sensory Integration Dysfunction. VI Thoughts for Non-AS Support People. VII Support Groups and Other Helpful Resources. Glossary. References.

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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 SynopsisThe early years are the most critical period of learning for a child with autism. Therapeutic art-making can be a useful tool to tap into their imaginations and help them to express their thoughts and feelings. Art as an Early Intervention Tool for Children with Autism includes practical advice on helping a child move beyond scribbling, organizing the child's environment for maximum comfort and relaxation, and providing physical and sensory support.This book is packed with tips and suggestions for how to provide art therapy for children with autism, covering topics such as the basic materials required, safety issues, how to set up a workspace, and ideas for managing difficult behavior. The author writes from a professional and personal perspective. Nicole Martin is a qualified art therapist specializing in working with children with autism, and she also has a brother with autism.Perfect for busy parents and as a practical reference for professionals such as psychologists, teachers, occupational therapists, sensory integration therapists and anyone working with a child on the autism spectrum.Trade ReviewThis is not a book about psychoanalysis, but a lovingly compiled description of art therapy thoroughly informed by professional and personal experience. Its target audience is anyone who is doing art with children. -- Montessori InternationalThis book is packed with practical tips and examples of appropriate ways to work with these children, it is a well thought out and well presented with the parent as well as the therapist or carer in mind, and the author's commitment and enthusiasm is very apparent. This book would be helpful and encouraging to anyone involved with children with ASD. -- The Frontline of Learning Disabilty JournalEarly Intervention Tool for Children with Autism by Nicole Martin is just the right book for busy parents, a practical reference for psychologists, teachers, occupational therapists, sensory integration therapists and anyone working with a child on the autism spectrum. It will be of particular interest to all those professionals working with autistic children and specialists in other communication disorders. -- Journal of Autism and Developmental DisordersTable of ContentsPreface. Chapter 1. Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorders. Chapter 2. Integrating Art Into Early Intervention Treatment. Chapter 3. Characteristics of Artwork Made by Children with Autism. Chapter 4. Why Art Projects Are Beneficial. Chapter 5. Tools of the Trade. Chapter 6. Advice to Help Ensure A Quality Art Experience. Conclusion. Appendix A. Creative Community: Group Art Projects for Kids With ASD. Appendix B. Give It To Me Straight: One Page Summary of the Book for Busy Parents. References. Recommended Reading. Index

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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 Synopsis*Gold Medal Winner in the Sexuality / Relationships Category of the 2011 IPPY Awards** Honorary Mention in the 2010 BOTYA Awards Women's Issues Category *Girls with Asperger's Syndrome are less frequently diagnosed than boys, and even once symptoms have been recognised, help is often not readily available. The image of coping well presented by AS females of any age can often mask difficulties, deficits, challenges, and loneliness.This is a must-have handbook written by an Aspergirl for Aspergirls, young and old. Rudy Simone guides you through every aspect of both personal and professional life, from early recollections of blame, guilt, and savant skills, to friendships, romance and marriage. Employment, career, rituals and routines are also covered, along with depression, meltdowns and being misunderstood. Including the reflections of over thirty-five women diagnosed as on the spectrum, as well as some partners and parents, Rudy identifies recurring struggles and areas where Aspergirls need validation, information and advice. As they recount their stories, anecdotes, and wisdom, she highlights how differences between males and females on the spectrum are mostly a matter of perception, rejecting negative views of Aspergirls and empowering them to lead happy and fulfilled lives.This book will be essential reading for females of any age diagnosed with AS, and those who think they might be on the spectrum. It will also be of interest to partners and loved ones of Aspergirls, and anybody interested either professionally or academically in Asperger's Syndrome.Trade ReviewRuby Simone's approach is hands-on, and her writing style is easy to read. The chapters are short and give good tips to woman and girls with AS and the people closest to them. I don't know that I believe all the holistic stuff, but I think this book should be required reading for woman and girls who have been diagnosed with AS. -- A Girl Walks into a Bookstore BlogEvery chapter deals with the everyday things that occur in life, explaining how you could feel when you're in love, when you fancy someone, to what you do and should do when going on a date. Sexual relationships and sexual activity are clearly explained, as are how they are affected by sensory issues and whether sex is painful and annoying -- Asperger UnitedIt is interesting the way temper meltdowns are described very accurately and are written just as I experience them, including crying, frustration, shouting, yelling, being sarcastic, becoming vicious, feeling faint or dizzy and that temper meltdowns often happen when we are hungry. -- Asperger UnitedThis is a very readable and enlightening book for all Aspergrirls, their family, friends and involved others... This thoughtful account enthuses the reader and builds their understanding of the specific needs of Aspergirls; a highly recommended book. -- Youth in MindIn the accessible and relevant 'Aspergirls', Rudy Simone takes the reader through the stages of life from childhood to old age, looking at issues such as the Aspergirl's 'meltdowns', 'stims' (self-stimulatory behaviour), literal thinking, socialising and sexuality. It is written in a touching, often humorous and very practical style, effectively providing a life manual for females with Asperger Syndrome. The anecdotes from Aspergirls she has interviewed broaden the reader's insight into what is must be like to live with this syndrome. -- Speech & Language Therapy in PracticeIn a lovely style, Rudy Simone covers every aspect of personal and professional life, from early recollections of blame, guilt and savant skills to friendships, romance and marriage...Rudy identifies recurring struggles and areas where Aspergirls need validation, information and advice. As they recount their stories, anecdotes and wisdom, she highlights how differences between males and females on the spectrum are mostly a matter of perception and empowers Aspergirls to lead happy and fulfilled lives. -- Human Givens JournalI can highly recommend this book to all Aspergirls and their parents, family, partners and professionals, as well as to all members of our community. With humour, love, liking and respect Rudy opens our eyes to the World of the Aspergirl, providing powerful insights on love, learning, sex, career, marriage, having children, friendships, puberty, diagnosis, emotions, health, aging and more...For too many years we have missed Aspergirls due to our current understanding of Asperger's syndrome being largely based on a male presentation. Rudy generously provides, through deep personal insight and her interviews with other Aspergirls, a broader definition and understanding, one that will help bridge the gap between Aspergirls and the non-spectrum population. -- Dr Michelle Garnett MPsych(Clin) PhD MAPS MCCP, Clinic Director and Clinical Psychologist, Minds & Hearts: A Specialist Clinic for Asperger's Syndrome and AutismRudy's book helps girls with AS to realize that they are not alone and lets them know that there are others who feel like thy do. But Rudy also does a thoughtful job of illustrating that not all girls with AS are the same. They have both talents and deficits and vary based on intelligence, level of imagination, and obsessions, just to name a few areas. -- Help! SOS for ParentsMany people, doctors and counsellors included, see AS (Autism Spectrum) as predominately affecting men. The Aspergirls is more often than not overlooked or diagnosed later in life. Rudy's book helps girls with AS to realize that they are not alone and lets them know that there are others who feel like they do. But Rudy also does a thoughtful job of illustrating that not all girls with AS are the same. They have both talents and deficits and vary based on intelligence, level of imagination, and obsessions, just to name a few areas.' - Help! S-O-S for Parents'Specialists' books are all very well, but what people really, really need are the 'case histories' told from the inside. And so far this is the best I've seen. Aspergirls is a mix between Rudy's own experience and that of other Aspergirls, as well as pure advice, both to other Aspies as well as to Neurotypicals. -- Bookwich blogThis book is a tremendous resource for Aspergirls, their parents, family, friends and professionals. Based on Ms. Simone's personal insight as well as her interviews of over 35 women on the spectrum, this book will serve as an inclusive reference manual. Each chapter is packed with information on sensory overload, guilt, dating, higher learning and career, medication, meltdowns and stomach issues to name only a few. At the end of each chapter are sections containing very practical suggestions for Aspergirls, and their parents for handling the multitude of issues that can accompany Asperger's syndrome. She also encourages Aspergirls to celebrate and cherish who they are and puts to rest some common myths about girls on the spectrum. She encourages us with statements such as, "Life is about making a contribution, not about being popular and fitting in." Ms. Simone is very candid and open about her own struggles and with bullying experiences. She also discusses the difficulties in identifying women on the spectrum. This book will serve as an excellent reference for the Aspergirl and those who love/work with her. -- Bonnie Kimpling-Kelly, teacher and behavior analystThis book is an easy to read, sensitive and funny at times while presenting some serious matters to consider. The concerns are focused on the individual but inclusive of the parents, educator and the community surrounding them. Whether you are a parent of a child with Asperger Syndrome or know someone who is, this is a must read as it will not only provide the reader with a good insight and look into the lives of girls with Asperger Syndrome, but also make you laugh as you develop more compassion aside faith. -- Oren Shtayermman * Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders *Table of ContentsForeword by Liane Holliday Willey. Introduction. 1. Imagination, Self-taught Reading and Savant Skills, and Unusual Interests. 2. Why Smart Girls Sometimes Hate School. 3. Sensory Overload. 4. Stimming, and What We Do When We're Happy. 5. On Blame and Internalizing Guilt. 6. Gender Roles and Identity. 7. Puberty and Mutism. 8. Attraction, Dating, Sex, and Relationships. 9. Friendships and Socializing. 10. Higher Learning. 11. Employment and Career. 12. Marriage and Cohabitation. 13. Having Children. 14. Ritual and Routine, Logical and Literal Thinking, Bluntness, Empathy, and Being Misunderstood. 15. Diagnosis, Misdiagnosis, and Medication. 16. Depression Meltdowns, PTSD, and More About Meds. 17. Temper Meltdowns. 18. Burning Bridges. 19. Stomach Issues and Autism. 20. Getting Older on the Spectrum. 21. On Whether AS is a Disability or a Gift, and Advice from Aspergirls to Aspergirls. Additional Tools for Parents. 22. Give Your Aspergirl some BALLS: Belief, Acceptance, Love, Like, and Support. 23. Thoughts and Advice from Parents of Aspergirls. Appendix. List of Female Asperger Syndrome Traits. Summary of Some Main Female/Male Differences. References and Resources.

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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 SynopsisPotty training a child with developmental disorders can be a real challenge, and sometimes the extra difficulties make you feel as though you've tried everything, and failed. In this book, Brenda Batts shows how you can overcome problems, big and small, and provides tried and tested methods that really work, tailored to each individual child.Bursting with ideas on how to see past conventional strategies and adapt toilet training to suit your child, this book outlines methods that have helped even the most despairing of parents and caregivers. Examples of success stories range from two-year-olds to adults aged 20, and show that no matter how difficult it may seem, a little creativity and adaptation can get anyone toilet trained, however many previous attempts have failed. The program itself is supported by plenty of helpful hints and tips, as Brenda covers all you need to get your child past the diaper stage and help them to achieve a big step towards independence.This book is a must for anybody looking to toilet train someone with developmental disorders.Trade ReviewA good book to read if you are about to start a potty training programme and full of tips and ideas if you feel you have tried everything and failed. -- Cerebra NewsbeatEach step has a wealth of ideas and tips; with some having case studies showing examples of the step in action. I found these steps really easy to follow, and useful in giving me ideas on how to individualise the programme for my child. The final chapters give a brief summary for each step, some invaluable tips and answer frequently asked questions, all of which help to provide a really useful book... I feel this book is an invaluable aid to interested professionals working with children with special needs. As a tool, many of the resources can be made and easily individualised for families to enable them to have a positive and successful experience of toilet training. -- GAP (Good Autism Practice)What sets this book apart from other toilet training books is that Ms. Batts explains why potty training efforts tend to fail. Her clear behavioral plan and experienced insights will help countless children finally succeed at this essential skill. -- Bonnie Arnwine, Founder, National Autism ResourcesBrenda does an excellent job of connecting with her audiences and in providing workable solutions to issues faced by parents and those who provide services to individuals affected by an autism spectrum disorder. Her approaches get results. People who have attended the workshops Brenda has offered for Region 17 Education Service Center have commented on getting results using her approaches. Her workshops continue to be talked about and remembered long after they are over. -- Dr. David Jenkins, Educational Service Center, Lubbock, Texas, USAThis is a book I REALLY wish I had around when I was potty training my son Aiden. Ready, Set, Potty! is filled with fabulous ideas and I am actually going to use some with my daughter Olivia. She is developmentally "normal" but utterly oppsed to the idea of using the potty so I am sure the ideas in this book will help. If you are the parent of a special needs kid be sure to get this book - I am CERTAIN it will be a great help in your quest to toilet train that child!!! It is very easy to read and 100% practical. The ideas are doable for every family. I am happy to recommend Ready, Set, Potty! -- Tara's View on BooksI was mesmerized by Brenda's system. It made so much sense to me, and I was eager to get my Bella out of diapers. I followed Brenda's instructions to the letter and sure enough, after 48 hours, Bella had released into the toilet several times and was on her way to success. Previous attempts meant literally hours sitting on the toilet with no success, only to have a puddle on the floor seconds after leaving the bathroom. Go ahead, Pamper yourself. Get the book. -- Age of AutismBehavioral consultant Brenda Batts has written the instructions parents need to successfully guide a child along the path toward bathroom independence. "... it is imperative to understand that our children are more like us than they are different," she says. Using this premise as the foundation, Batts shows how to create a simple, intelligent, logical process that a child will not find difficult to follow. Many of her techniques may also be used in other areas of life that need logic and clarification... Batts is terrific at presenting instructional material in a clear, easy-to-follow manner. She has structured her book in a way that allows for easy cover-to-cover reading but which also lends itself to later reference... Also evident in the text is Batt's utmost respect for her readers and their children; it shows in her treatment of the subjects in her examples. As the mother of a child with developmental disorders, she knows exactly what it's like to struggle with challenges like potty training, and offers warm understanding in addition to useful advice... Care givers who need a useful, creative, and structured potty training program will do well to start with Ready, Set, Potty. -- ForeWord ReviewsIn her helpful new book, Ready, Set, Potty: Toilet Training for Children with Autism and Other Developmental Disorders [September 2010, Jessica Kingsley Publishers] Brenda Batts provides an easily accessible, informative guide complete with charts and tips for parents and teachers geared towards achieving successful, independent toilet training for the disabled child. -- Cindi Matthews - frugalnewenglandkitchen.comTable of ContentsDedication. 1. Introduction - The road to independence. 2. Individualized Teaching. 3. Components of a Well-Structured Program. 4. Critical Questions. 5. Areas to Consider. 6. The Potty Plan. 7. The Beginning of the Process. 8. Steps to Potty Training. 9. Recap. 10. FAQs. 11. Closing Remarks.

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Book SynopsisLife with Asperger Syndrome can be a challenge at the best of times, and trials and tribulations that neurotypicals take in their stride can leave Aspies perplexed and unsure of how to solve problems and keep themselves safe, both physically and emotionally. Liane Holliday Willey explores the daily pitfalls that females with AS may face, and suggests practical and helpful ways of overcoming them. The focus throughout is on keeping safe, and this extends to travel, social awareness, and general life management. With deeply personal accounts from the author's own experiences, this book doesn't shy away from difficult issues such as coping with bullying, self-harm, depression, and eating disorders. The positive and encouraging advice gives those with AS the guidance to safeguard themselves from emotional and physical harm, and live happy and independent lives.This book will be essential reading for all females with Asperger Syndrome, their friends and families, and all professionals whose work brings them into contact with females with AS.Trade ReviewLiane has written another brave and informative book about her experiences as an adult Aspie....She gives all of us a piece of herself so that we can add to our own roadmap. It makes us better moms, therapists, friends, and people. Liane's new book is on my short list along with her first, Pretending to be Normal. -- Pat Schissel, On the SpectrumWilley (Senior editor, Autism Spectrum Quarterly) uses research and personal experiences as a sufferer of Asperger's syndrome to help "Aspie" woman meet the challenges of travel, social awareness, and life management. She talks about how Aspie woman are wired, how they can be manipulated, and how they often feel disconnected. Willey shares the challenges of taking on life and resisting the urge to run away. She offers practical suggestions on picking friends wisely, staying safely in hotels, expanding diets, and more. This is essential reading for woman with Asperger's syndrome, their families, and the professionals who work with them. -- Library JournalI read this attractively-covered book in one sitting. It is quick, touching, witty and enormously helpful... Holliday Willey has made a great contribution to the growing literature in this area, especially for girls and women with Asperger's syndrome.An excellent read. -- Learning Disability TodayThe book is clear, personal and easy to identify with... This is a book with plenty of common sense tips, covering keeping safe and emotionally whole is a comfort and a reminder that we are not alone. This is well worth getting for a teenage daughter or for newly diagnosed women because many of Willey's experiences will be mirrored in their own lives and some of her tips may be new and worth a try. -- ASTeensThe literary equivalent of a map, a first aid kit, a bullet proof vest and a nice cup of tea. Liane's strength is not the stoic sort, but shows itself through vulnerability, honesty and generosity. This is on the top shelf of 'must reads' in the category of female Asperger Syndrome and it shall remain there to arm, console, and inform readers for many years to come! -- Rudy Simone, author of Aspergirls and 22 Things a Woman Must Know: If She Loves a Man with Asperger's SyndromeLiane's wise and intimate account of how to recognise, disarm and distance oneself from those who might intend or not, emotional or social harm, connected me in ways I couldn't have otherwise imagined. Liane takes AS women into the heart of our issues with obsession, over attachment, broken bonds, mood issues, fashion, self-care, dreams and so much more. In this book I found myself identifying past wounds and experiences that I could finally put a label on, bury and move beyond. Thank you! -- Wendy Lawson, psychologist, qualified counselor, social worker and autism advocate, author of many books on topics relating to Autism Spectrum Disorders"'Who am I and what will I do to be who I want to be?" Safety Skills for Asperger Women is a powerful invitation to take a chance on life and on healing. At times gentle in its encouragement, at others, urging in its counsel, Holliday Willey's words are a beacon, a light in the dark for all women with AS who want to live life more fully but sometimes find themselves off the path. Her work is remarkable, courageous, and welcoming for a group of women who too often live lives misunderstood and mistreated. Safety Skills is an eye-opening account of the perils and also the victories of the female life on the spectrum. Beautifully written and powerful in its message of wellness, this book helps you to dance with your spirit when life feels too overwhelming.' -- Shana Nichols, Owner and Director of the ASPIRE Centre for Learning and Development and author of Girls Growing Up on the Autism SpectrumLiane Holliday Willey's book will help many women on the Autism Spectrum have a more fulfilling life. -- Temple Grandin, author of Thinking in Pictures and The Way I See ItLiane writes of the agonies she has faced as she travelled the social world full of hazards. Some of the accounts are almost too scary to contemplate, yet her constant optimism has brought her through. Her deep introspection brings us all closer to understanding how an autistic mind experiences the world. She provides end of chapter support sections giving her ideas of things that she feels would be helpful to know. It is clear she hopes others may not have to face similar situations or ordeals unprepared. Liane longs for a world where AS is totally accepted, it is writ large on every page, it would address the extreme stresses many have to live with on a daily basis. Liane's book could help vulnerable women with AS live a safer, happier life. -- Rosalyn Lord, parent, advocate and trainer, UKIn the chapter titled Out and About or Traveling To and Fro, Liane Holliday Willey describes several challenging travel adventures - across the continent and around the block - in vivid Aspie detail. The wording of an informational sign at an airport, confusing pronunciations of her name over an airport loudspeaker, the resultant stressful interaction with an airlines representative, rearranged shelves in grocery stores that set off in a bad way the routine-bound author, all illustrate sensory and social situations that could make travel daunting, difficult and something to avoid for many living in the spectrum. Yet, Liane understands that the basic human desire to explore the world and the benefits of doing so, however difficult it may be, outweighs the dilemmas. This chapter alone makes Safety Skills for Asperger Women a must-read! -- Dennis Debbaudt, founder of Autism Risk & Safety Management and author of Autism, Advocates and Law Enforcement Professionals[Liane's] personal explanations and advice will resonate with the reader and transform and even save lives. Why is this book so needed and so valuable? Primarily, because our understanding of Asperger's syndrome is based on the profile of abilities and developmental history of boys and men… Liane's new book enables greater recognition of the adversity experienced by girls and women who have Asperger's syndrome, and provides strategies to overcome or avoid "scary" moments. -- From the Foreword by Tony Attwood, Clinical Psychologist and author of The Complete Guide to Asperger's SyndromeWilley's newest book is a handbook of downright necessary information for women with Asperger's Syndrome. Titled Saftey Skills for Asperger Women: How to Save a Perfectly Good Female Life, it offers help overcoming problems that may not seem complicated for Neurotypicals but are common pitfalls for Aspies. These include being safe and aware in a variety of situations at work and while traveling. It also provides exacting advice for coping with depression, bullying, eating disorders, low self-esteem, and much more. The author's approach is accepting and inspirational. -- GeekMom.comSafety Skills for Asperger Women: How to Save a Perfectly Good Female Life discusses the underlying problems and daily challenges women with AS may face, using extensive accounts from the author's own experiences to highlight issues of safety under various situations. From travel to social situations or managing daily life, this offers everything from exercises for mood enhancing change to the special needs of an AS body. -- The Midwest Book ReviewI found this book informative, insightful and well written. Lianne covers a range of circumstances which may regularly leave the female with Asperger vulnerable to societal and individual demands and inconsistencies and provides straight talking methods, suggestions and personal anecdotes to guide the reader through such situations. There are a number of helpful lists to make life for the person with Asperger a little safer, more logical and hopefully less stressful... the main feeling throughout this book is that of optimism, the positivity that situations can be faced and tackled with improved know-how and confidence. -- ESPATable of Contentsi. Dedication. ii. Acknowledgements. iii. Foreword by Tony Attwood. iv. Introduction. 1. Healthy Relationships, Safe Socializing - Staying Safe and Well. 2. Falling Prey - But Not Falling Forever. 3. Broken Bonds - For When Something or Someone You Love is Lost Forever. 4. Mood Marauders - Or How to Ruin a Perfectly Good Day. 5. Out and About or Traveling To and Fro. 6. Body Beware - Keeping the Mind and Body Connected. 7. What's Looks Got to do with It? - More Than I Would Like to Admit. 8. Living the Life Easy - Juggling Life Vs. the Urge to Run Away. 9. Dance With Your Spirit - Tap Into Grace. 10. Red Flag Warnings - Could This Female Have AS?. Recommended Reading and Resources.

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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 SynopsisRudy Simone covers 22 common areas of confusion for someone dating a female with AS and includes advice from her own experience and from other partners in real relationships. She talks with humour and honesty about the quirks and sensitivities that you may come across when getting to know your partner. All the pivotal relationship landmarks are discussed, including the first date, sex, and even having children. This entertaining and easy-to-read book will be ideal for anyone dating, or in a relationship with, an AS female. Women with AS themselves, and their families and friends, will also enjoy the book and find it useful. Counsellors and other professionals working with women with AS will find the insight offered extremely enlightening.Trade Review*Silver medal winner in the 'Femininity/Sexuality' category of the Living Now Book Awards*'There are many books that have been written about being in a relationship with a man with AS, but I have found none to be as insightful, accurate and understanding of both perspectives as this book by Rudy Simone. Each section of the book says it just the way it is; it is realistic, positive and unbiased.' -- From the Foreword by Maxine Aston, author of The Other Half of Asperger Syndrome, Aspergers in Love and The Asperger Couples WorkbookRudy Simone does it again! Like her other books, Rudy provides the direct instruction empowering those desiring better understanding and appreciation of women with Asperger syndrome. The 'Partner's words' ending each chapter succinctly summarize and are great at driving home each one of the 22 points. My highest recommendation for anyone wanting a deeper and more meaningful relationship with the female with Asperger syndrome in their lives. -- Stephen M. Shore, EdD, Assistant Professor of Special Education, Adelphi University, internationally known consultant and presenter on issues related to the autism spectrumReading Rudy's second book concerning 22 things was just as enlightening and informative as her first book. Whether you are male or female this book will speak your language. I love the down-to-earth approach Rudy takes and the plain speak she uses to take us there. I love the all rounded, no bull, tackle the unmentionable and answer the hard questions stuff that Rudy refuses to shun. Being in a relationship myself with an Aspergirl I recognise so many of the day to day issues. I wish I had read '22 things', so many years ago. It would have explained such a lot and saved us from some of the smog. No matter, it's here now. We need this book! -- Wendy Lawson, psychologist, qualified counselor, social worker and autism advocate, author of many books on topics relating to Autism Spectrum Disorders, Victoria, AustraliaIn great Rudy style, Ms Simone shares her frank honesty and first-hand knowledge of what females on the spectrum need, desire and deserve. Rudy Simone sheds light on the enigma surrounding females with Asperger Syndrome and shows her readers the whys and wonders behind the female with ASD. Thanks to Rudy, I can now see many mutually satisfying relationships possible between Aspergirls and their partners! Right on! -- Liane Holliday Willey, author of Safety Skills for Women with Asperger Syndrome: How to Save a Perfectly Good Female LifeWhile we have considerable literature to help couples where a male partner has the characteristics of Asperger's syndrome, this is the first book to describe, explore and provide hope and practical advice for a relationship where a woman has these characteristics. Rudy Simone boldly goes where no author has gone before with insight and enterprise. This book will revive and rescue relationships. -- From the foreword by Tony Attwood, Clinical Psychologist and author of many books including The Complete Guide to Asperger's SyndromeIn her inimitably warm, witty, and disarming style, Rudy Simone casts light on what you need to know about having a relationship with a woman on the spectrum. One of the most damaging stereotypes of autistic people is that they are uninterested in or incapable of intimacy, and Simone demolishes that stereotype while offering practical, down-to-earth tips that will help you navigate the nuances of forging a lasting relationship with an 'Aspergirl'. Addressing everything from sex, to sensory issues, to emotional vulnerability, to giving and receiving criticism in a caring and safe way, Simone offers a helpful road map that will help you avoid potential pitfalls with the one you love and start building a life of closeness, passion, and honesty together. -- Steve Silberman, contributing editor of Wired magazine and neurodiversity blogger for the Public Library of ScienceI find this book extremely well written in a language that non autistic individuals can identify with and get the point of what Rudy Simone is trying to convey. -- Deborah Lipsky, author of From Anxiety to Meltdown and Managing Meltdowns, Maine, USASimone writes with humour and candour about control issues, moods, sensory challenges, repetitive behaviours, special interests and more... I would recommend this book to both partners in a relationship in which a woman has Asperger's syndrome. A foreword by Tony Attwood and illustrations by Emma Rios further enhance the book. -- Cynthia Parkhill BlogTable of ContentsForeword by Tony Attwood. Introduction. 1. So, you want to date an Aspergirl?. 2. Try feeling this!. 3. She is not broken. You don't need to fix her. 4. No wire hangers....Ever! Why she has control issues. 5. Everyone's a critic...But She's better at it than you. 6. Break on through to the other side. 7. It might seem like her special interest is herself. 8. She only needs one friend....and the winner is, You!. 9. Don't Be Cruel To a Heart That's True. 10. Home Is Where Her Heart Is..and her body much of the time. 11. Even If You Think of Her as a Woman, She Might Not. 12. Her Name Isn't Mommy...No Matter How Much She Loves Her Child. 13. How to turn a Hotbed into a Hot Bed. 14. Why Soothing Behaviors (formerly known as stimming) are good for her...and you. 15. Jumping for Joy...or bouncing, or twirling. 16. Tongue tied but not twisted. Just because she can't verbalize her emotions, doesn't mean she doesn't have them. 17. Depression—the enemy on our borders. 18. The Mood Swings...do more than duck. 19. Trust—Abuse It and Lose It. 20. Is it Obsession or is it Love?. 21. You may find more in common as you get older. 22. Aspergers is a reason, not a label, not an excuse. Last Words. Appendix.

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Book SynopsisThis book presents an innovative model for strengthening and developing executive function in any student, including those with attention, memory, organization, planning, inhibition, initiative, and flexibility difficulties. It provides guidance on how to support each student's evolving executive function, and how to encourage those who are ready to develop self-advocacy and become more responsible for the development of his or her own executive function skills.The author advocates a student-centred approach in which educators first explore eight key 'ingredients' with the student: relationships; strengths and weaknesses; self-advocacy and responsibility; review and preview; motivation and incentive; synthesis and analysis; rhythm and routine; and practice and repetition. She provides step-by-step explanations of how the educator and student can then explore and use these 'ingredients' in different ways and in different combinations to successfully address particular areas of difficulty. The approach is clearly explained, and the author provides many useful examples, tried-and-tested practical tips and strategies; suggested conversation starters; sample time management plans; and other tools that can be adapted to meet the particular needs and abilities of each individual student. Original and effective, the approach outlined in this book will be of interest to teachers and other professionals involved in supporting executive function in students of all ages, as well as parents and carers.Trade ReviewThrough a combination of time management skills, planning and initiative, teachers are given formulas for success relating specifically to executive function skills, and will find this a powerful teaching tool. -- Midwest Book ReviewReaders, both teachers and parents, will recognise the situations, the conversations, the misunderstandings and the frustrations, and they will gain a valuable range of techniques and options for helping young people learn to fix their attention. -- Nasen Special MagazinePaula Moraine's goals are to make executive functions more understandable and to guide teachers and parents in helping students learn how they learn. She achieves those goals with clarity and creativity. An excellent book! -- Steven E. Band, Ph.D., Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital, BaltimoreMy 10th grade son was discouraged to the point of having shut down educationally and emotionally when we started working with Paula. Using a systematic approach, she has identified his individual learning style and taught him to "tap-in" to strategies that allow him to succeed in any environment. Now he can navigate assignments, tasks, and daily routines achieving outcomes which demonstrate his full potential. Most importantly, he is confident and believes in his abilities again. -- Cindy Glorioso, mother of two children with ADHD and dysgraphiaThe 'ingredients' are presented with great imagery, making the concepts understandable and relevant. Paula provides a fresh and accessible approach to teaching and executive function that every teacher needs. -- Paula Carmody, M.A.S., Educational Director, The Highlands SchoolThis book presents techniques to use with students, both in schools and at home. It is aimed at educators and, to some extent, parents. The author explores 'executive functions', which she defines as attention, memory, planning, organization inhibition, initiative, and flexibility... The book is also American and focuses on the United States school system. There are, however, many concepts, ideas, and interventions which are transferrable to the United Kingdom. Overall this is a useful book whichoffers a model of working for those based in the education system and perhaps elsewhere. -- Ailsa Gillen, Specialist OT, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, NHS Lothian * British Journal of Occupational Therapy (BJOT) *Table of ContentsIntroduction. Part I: Ingredients. 1. Relationships. 2. Strengths and Weaknesses. 3. Self-Advocacy to Self-Responsibility. 4. Review and Preview: Mental Image. 5. Motivation and Incentive. 6. Synthesis and Analysis: From the Whole to the Parts and from the Parts to the Whole. 7. Rhythm and Routine: Practice and Repetition. 8. Implicit and Explicit. Part II: Practice and Application: The Executive Functions. 9. Attention. 10. Memory. 11. Organization. 12. Planning. 13. Inhibition and Initiative. 14. Flexibility and/or Shift. 15. Control of Emotion and Control of Behavior. 16. Goals. 17. The Executive Function Map. Specific Approaches. Conclusion: Golden Rules. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis book is a celebration of all the wonderful and unexpected gifts that having a daughter on the autism spectrum can bring to a family. Each chapter offers encouragement and guidance on issues such as school, friendships, meltdowns, special gifts, family relationships, therapies and interventions. Having daughters on the spectrum presents unique and rewarding challenges and this book is packed with friendly advice and real life examples from a mother who has experienced it all first hand.This positive, upbeat book is guaranteed to offer support to parents, grandparents and family members, as well as providing educators and anyone else working in a supporting role with an insight into what life is like for girls on the spectrum and their parents.Trade ReviewMostly it's about Eileen Riley-Hall's experiences with her daughters but it's also chock full of websites and other resources to help you along the way. I can't say enough about how helpful she is in her book. -- One Girl Circus blogRiley-Hall comes across as a strong, loving mother who has much to share and her experiences and outlook would no doubt be an inspiration to many. -- asteensEileen Riley-Hall has produced a book full of pride but without a hint of vanity. This is a mother whose pride in her, each very different, daughters jumps off the page...I felt I'd got to know a family, was given a glimpse into a loving relationship between a devoted mum and her girls and was left wanting to get to know them better still. For this reason and that Eileen Riley-Hall's voice is a much needed one of balance and pride, I'm hoping for a follow up. -- Autismum blogIf you have a daughter with autism or Asperger's syndrome, this book will be your primary source of information and inspiration as well as becoming your 'best friend' who understands and supports you. -- Tony Attwood, Clinical Psychologist and author of The Complete Guide to Asperger's SyndromeEileen Riley-Hall, a parent of two girls on the autism spectrum, has demonstrated with great clarity the differences between girls and boys on the spectrum. Her book addresses the complexities of girls being a 'minority in a minority group'. Without doubt her book is inspiring, positive and practical providing excellent tips on living with, understanding and supporting girls on the spectrum. A must read for all of us who care about this 'hidden' group. -- Dr Judith Gould, Clinical Psychologist and Director of the NAS Lorna Wing Centre for AutismEileen shares with her readers the unique experiences of females with ASDs and the challenges that they and their families face; challenges such as minority status within a minority, social expectations for females to be good at social-communication, the risks of depression and anxiety, handling mean girls who bully in ways that are different than the bullying of boys, hygiene and fashion, and making friends. Whether your daughter is a spunky spitfire or a quiet little lady, you will find her somewhere in Eileen's words, and I guarantee that you will not feel alone. -- from the Foreword by Shana Nichols, clinical psychologist, Owner and Director of the ASPIRE Centre for Learning and Development, New York State and author of Girls Growing Up on the Autism Spectrum.Eileen Riley-Hall has encouraged her daughters to grow into beautiful and delightful young women and has developed distinctive strategies to develop their potential. -- Gayle Buckley MD, paediatrician, New York stateEileen Riley-Hall writes as an old hand, reassuring new recruits that they, too, will survive the shock of getting a diagnosis, and showing them how to be their own child's advocate, while maintaining a healthy balance in their own lives, and the on-going life of their family. This is a heartening, and at the same time no-nonsense look at what it means to be the parent of not one, but two daughters on the autism spectrum. The author speaks with the insight, compassion, and wisdom that only come from first-hand experience…enabling new parents to make better-informed choices on their own child's behalf. -- James Coplan, MD, author, Making Sense of Autistic Spectrum DisordersTable of ContentsForeword. Preface. Introduction. 1. What is Autism? 2. Diagnosis. 3. Girls on the Spectrum. 4. Education. 5. Friends. 6. Siblings. 7. Causes, Treatments, and Acceptance. 8. World Wide Web. 9. Milestones. 10. Autism Truths and Myths 11. Dark Moments. 12. Special Gifts. 13. Mistakes, Outtakes, and C is for Crazy. 14. Relationships. 15. Taking Care of You. 16. The Future.

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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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