Child and developmental psychology Books

Book SynopsisSocial Stories™ are acknowledged as a very successful way of teaching concepts and social understanding to children with autism spectrum disorders, but considerable skill is needed to write the most effective story. This clear and engaging book introduces ways of thinking about the issues your child finds difficult, and includes 32 stories created by Dr Siobhan Timmins for her son during his early years, with helpful explanations of how she did it, and what the underlying thinking was behind each set of stories.She explains how the stories build upon each other to help the child to understand further, more complex topics, and how to see the connections so that you can best help your child. From basic skills such as learning to listen, wait and share, to common fears, this book takes the mystery out of creating effective Social Stories™ and amply demonstrates how to put together a cohesive set of stories which your child can understand and relate to.Trade ReviewThis book is an invaluable contribution to the body of published information and guidance on Carol Gray's Social Stories(TM). Siobhan shares her insightful thinking and information gathering which results in impeccable stories for her son Mark. Her stories and the strategies she uses to ensure true social understanding will be inspirational to all parents and professionals. -- Eileen Arnold, former specialist speech and language therapist and co-author of Revealing the Hidden Social Code: Social StoriesTM for People with Autistic Spectrum DisordersLife can be confusing and overwhelming for a child who has autism. Social StoriesTM provide information, reassurance and guidance not only for the child, but also for parents and teachers. The background to the creation of each Social Story explores a range of aspects of autism, and the rationale and rules for Social StoriesTM. The subsequent text and delightful illustrations are both informative and effective. I am sure, also, that readers will quietly smile, and sometimes laugh, when they read these delightful Stories. -- Tony Attwood PhD, clinical psychologist, Minds & Hearts Clinic, Australia, and author of The Complete Guide to Asperger's SyndromeCarol Gray's Social Stories are known to virtually everyone associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders. In this new book, Siobhan Timmins, parent of a child with ASD who studied under Carol Gray, helps to further explain Gray's Social Stories as a way of assisting children with ASD to control behaviors and function at a higher level. The book gives a clear, detailed, and thoughtful explanation of the central ideas behind Social Stories and demonstrates how to implement the strategies with wonderful examples and terrific pictures. Anyone interested in the ideas and strategies behind Social Stories will love this clear and in depth elaboration of the theories and practices and the delightful examples of how to implement them. -- Gary B. Mesibov, Professor Emeritus of Psychology and Emeritus Research Fellow at the University of North Carolina at Chapel HillSiobhan notes her distaste of Social Stories being used to tell the child what they are doing wrong; those stories that she shares with us in the book are all written in fond, positive, tolerant terms as they always should be. Importantly, she tells readers that "Social Stories will not cure your child of autism, nor are they the only useful strategy to implement, but they are effective, enduring and empowering to both parent and child, a powerful partner on your walk with autism and I speak from experience!" ... This book is sensitive, informative and extremely helpful for parents, carers and professionals alike. -- Jude Ragan * Autistica *Table of ContentsIntroduction. 1. Understanding My Child's Perspective. 2. What Does Growing Up Mean?. 3. What is Feeling Calm?. 4. What Does Calm Down Mean?. 5. How to Ask for Chill Out Time. 6. I am Learning to Listen. 7. I am Learning to Wait Patiently. 8. What are Kind Words?. 9. What is Taking Turns?. 10. I am Learning to Share Toys. 11. What is a Conversation?. 12. How to Interrupt a Conversation. 13. What are Good Manners?. 14. What are Table Manners?. 15. What Does Excuse Me Mean?. 16. Why Do I Write Thank You Letters?. 17. I am Learning to Use a Hand Dryer. 18. How to Find Another Favourite Food. 19. Our Plan to Discover Another Favourite Food. 20. What is My Pants Job?, 21. Where is the Best Place to Put a Wrapper?. 22. What is Poo?. 23. I am Learning to Poo in a Toilet. 24. What Job Does My Nose Do?. 25. How to Stay Safe and Comfy on a Supermarket Trip. 26. Learning to Queue at the Checkout. 27. Why Do Babies Cry?. 28. What to Do When Another Child is Crying. 29. How to Stay Safe Around Wasps. 30. How Do I Move Safely Near a Wasp?. 31. Sharing the Diagnosis with a Social Story - What Are Worries?. 32. A Story for Parents at L.A.S.T.. 33. A Story for Siblings. References. Bibliography.

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Book SynopsisAs of 2016 the Department for Education (DfE) want to ensure all trainee teachers have an understanding of emotional development and attachment, and so this book presents the key concepts that are essential for training in this area to ensure all teachers are up to date. Attachment issues and mental health have a huge impact on pupils' performance and so an understanding of young people's emotional development is crucial for any teacher. Increasing teachers understanding and skills around emotional development can prevent many long term mental health difficulties in our schools and in our communities. Key topics such as attachment theory, emotion coaching, tackling disruptive behaviour and the trauma continuum are introduced and explained, with advice and tips for a classroom setting offered throughout. The experiences of practitioners in the field are presented alongside those of researchers, offering a range of diverse perspectives including education, psychology and health. This is an essential text for trainee and practising teachers.Trade ReviewThis is an important book. David Colley and Paul Cooper have brought together an important and highly engaging set of contributions to the topic of attachment and emotional development in the classroom. The text grounds recent research in the reality of classroom activity and it will make a very important contribution to the development of practice in schools and the reflections of those who are preparing for professional engagement with some of the most vulnerable young people in our society. -- Professor Harry Daniels, Department of Education, Oxford UniversityColley and Cooper's new book is very timely. With teachers facing ever-mounting pressures to deliver results, the understanding of the barriers to learning has never been more important. Covering both evidence and impact, this book is desired reading for teaching staff who want to know more about the children in their classrooms and how they learn. -- Kevin Kibble, Chief Executive of The Nurture Group NetworkAn informative, thought-provoking book seamlessly linking theory to practice. A must have for any newly qualified teacher during their first experiences with their very own class to help them to bridge gaps in the understanding of children with complex needs and guide their development more effectively. -- Verity Tamhne, NQTTable of ContentsForeword by Professor Barry Carpenter; Introduction - David Colley (Oxford Brookes University) and Paul Cooper (Brunel University); 1. Models of Emotional Development - David Colley and Paul Cooper; 2. Attachment Behaviour and Learning - Heather Geddes (Caspari, UK); 3. Neuroscience and Emotional Development: the basics explained - Maisie Satchwell-Hirst (Oxford University); 4. Attachment Aware Schools - Janet Rose (Norland College) and Louise Gilbert (Bath Spa University); 5. Emotion Coaching - Licette Gus and Felicia Wood (Kate Cairns Associates); 6. Promoting Resilience in Schools: The importance of both training and reflection for teachers and school staff - Mike Solomon (Tavistock Clinic, London); 7. Emotional Development and Missed Early Experiences: The Nurture Group Appraoch - David Colley; 8. Understanding the Impact of Trauma on Children in the Classroom - Betsy de Thierry (Trauma Recovery); 9. People meet in a classroom and say 'hello': a psychoanalytic perspective on the emotional relationship between the teacher and student - Peter Wilson (Place2Be); 10. A Psychoanalytic Understanding of Change and Transition in Education - Biddy Youell (Tavistock Clinic, London); 11. Supporting children and young people with social, emotional and mental health difficulties: working in a multi-agency team - Kathy Evans and Erica Pavord (University of South Wales); 12. Emotional Development and Children in Care: the Virtual School perspective - Tony Clifford and Anne-Marie McBlain (Virtual Schools Team, Stoke on Trent); 13. Social Pedagogy in the Classroom: supporting children and young people in care - Emma Black, (South Tyneside Educational Psychology Service), Michael Bettencourt, (Virtual School Head, South Tyneside) and Claire Cameron, (University College London); 14. Including Children with Disorganised Attachment in Mainstream Primary Schools - Maggie Swarbrick (Treatment Foster Care Oregon, Oxford, UK); 15. The importance of professional supervision for all staff in schools - Dave Roberts (Mulberry Bush School, Oxfordshire); 16. Emotional Development and approaches to Classroom Management - Jon Reid (Oxford Brookes University); 17. Disruptive Behaviour and Unsolved Problems - Poppy Nash (York University); 18. Classroom behaviour: finding what works for you - John Visser (Northampton University); 19. Supporting the Emotional Development of Teenagers - Janice Cahill (Pendlebury Centre PRU); 20. Conclusion: Drawing Together the Threads - David Colley and Paul Cooper; Author biographies; Subject index; Author index

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Book Synopsis· What is trauma?· How does it affect children?· How can adults help?Providing straightforward answers to these complex questions, The Simple Guide to Child Trauma is the perfect starting point for any adult caring for or working with a child who has experienced trauma. It will help them to understand more about a child's emotional and behavioural responses following trauma and provides welcome strategies to aid recovery. Reassuring advice will also rejuvenate adults' abilities to face the challenges of supporting children.Trade ReviewIn this accessible, enlightening little book, Betsy de Thierry recognises both the need to advocate for young people who have experienced trauma and to resource the adults in homes and schools who care for them. Emphasising the need for compassionate, relational responses to these often misunderstood young people, Betsy offers an array of practical strategies and insights to enable those responses, whilst conveying her core subject with confidence and clarity. An important, generous and timely publication. -- Louise Michelle Bombèr, Strategic Attachment Lead Teacher & TherapistAs a parent myself I have found this book to be such a useful tool. To have a basic understanding of how the brain works has given me greater confidence as a parent in handling my children calmly and remaining empathetic even when I don't always understand the reasons behind their behaviour. I value the comprehensible and practical tips that are listed in this book of how you can develop the connection and healing relationship with the child in your care. It's beautifully written with such profound insight that is essential for any caring person working with children. -- Dannii Gray, ParentThis book is easy to read using plain, clear language - free of jargon. It has really helpful suggestions that could be used in both professional and home settings. -- Liz Hall, Parent and Police Child Protection Investigator and TrainerSimplifying and condensing the complex world of childhood trauma into tangible, easy to grasp terms, de Thierry shows her mastery of the field in this handy guide. Her conversational style translates the neuroscience of trauma into supportive, concrete steps that any helping adult can apply to the children in his or her life. Empathy for the reader and patience for these vulnerable youth are ever-present as de Thierry herself models the restorative power of relationships. Such a hopeful and comforting read! -- Kendra Morris-Jacobson, Oregon Post Adoption Resource Center (ORPARC)What this 'simple guide' does elegantly and quickly is bring a large amount of research - from psychology, social work, neuroscience, biochemistry and genetics - directly to the busy but interested professionals, parents and carers working in this field. It translates complex ideas into 'practice-rich' language for adults who need to understand the inner worlds of children, rather than simply explore their 'wishes and feelings'. -- From the foreword by Professor David Shemmings OBETable of Contents1: Understanding trauma. 2: The impact of trauma. 3: Helping a child become calm. 4: Frustrating behaviour from traumatised children. 5: Key approaches to help children recover. 6: Important things to consider when offering support. 7: Getting your head around different therapies.

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Book SynopsisAs children grow up and spend more and more time away from home in schools and colleges, life often seems to get increasingly complicated. Autism makes the challenges they meet in these new environments even more difficult to navigate. Social Stories™ is a highly regarded strategy that parents and teachers can use to help young people with autism understand the new social situations they face during this time. Writing an effective Story takes a special set of skills, and in this fully illustrated book Dr Siobhan Timmins explains how to acquire and hone these techniques and put them into practice.Following on from her book on writing Social Stories™ for young children, this book on the next age group up includes 160 illustrations and clear examples based on the author's own experiences of raising a son with autism. She explains how to identify the underlying issues, and articulate the key ideas so that young learners can find connections between Stories to build a greater understanding of relationships, the adult world and their own identity. The book is an invaluable guide to creating bridges between young people and the parts of life they find most difficult.Trade ReviewThe context-setting, that helps further understanding of autistic thinking is superb, as are the examples of the social stories themselves. If this were a 'must-have' for every school and college, life for autistic children would be that much better. -- Jude Ragan, ex-head of Queensmill School, freelance autism education specialistAs a professional who works with young adults with autism in a day setting, I found this book very useful. It was great to see examples of the social stories and even better to read about real life experiences the author has had with her son. -- Lisa FaulknerMost children are able to interpret and respond to social contexts and cues in school with incredible speed and without effort. For others, like those diagnosed with autism, the events and interactions of each day hold elusive meanings and unforeseen pitfalls. Social Stories are like a magic wand that replaces confusion with information and fear with confidence, to build social competence one Story at a time. -- Peter Vermeulen, PhD. Senior lecturer at Autisme Centraal, Belgium. Author of over 15 books on autism including Autism as Context Blindness, 2012Table of ContentsForeword by Carol Gray. Acknowledgements. Dedication. 1. Understanding my child's perspective at school. 2. Introduction to Social Stories through the school years. Part One: The Classroom. 3. Stories about growing up. 4. I am learning to listen to the teacher. 5. Stories about calm. 6. Stories about help in the classroom. 7. What is practice? 8. What is a spelling test? 9. Stories about teachers. 10. What is the role of the LSA in secondary school? 11. Stories about intentions. 12. Stories about handwriting. 13. Stories about homework. 14. What is revision? Part Two: Going Home. 15. Viv is picking me up from school today. 16. Mum and Dad are going to a meeting. Part Three: Break Time. 17. What happens at break time? 18. Who is the owner of a game in the playground? 19. How to join a game in the playground. 20. What is a chasing game? 21. What does home mean in a game? 22. What does the whistle mean in the playground? 23. What is lining up? 24. Who is in charge of the playground? Part Four: Winning and Losing. 25. Stories about raffles. 26. What is an award assembley? 27. What is a good sportsman? 28. What is a worthy opponent? 29. What is my personal best? 30. Stories about Markachu II's Chill Attack. Part Five: School Events. 31. Sports day happens once a year. 32. What are the four houses in school? 33. What happens at a swimming gala? 34. Stories about the school trip. 35. I am moving up a level to year 3 (Transition Story). Part Six: Noise in School. 36. What is a fire drill? 37. Why do senior teachers use loud voices? 38. What volume is best for headphones? 39. What is a Social Article? (Story for diagnosis). 40. What is a Social Article (Alternative format). Part Seven: Building Resilience. 41. Thinking on the positive side. 42. What is plan B? 43. I am learning to self-reflect. 44. Moving from unsettled back to settled. References.

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Book SynopsisLife story work is an approach designed to enable traumatized children to explore, question and understand the past events of their lives. It aims to secure their future by strengthening attachment with their carers and providing the opportunity to develop a healthy sense of self and a feeling of wellbeing.This new edited volume documents innovative ways in which life story work has been developed. It draws on the work of nine life story centres based around the world and provides understanding and guidance for those working with children who have experienced trauma. The book illustrates current theory and practice and looks at how the approach is being used in a variety of settings including schools, intensive services, youth justice, and post-adoption support, highlighting its versatility. The importance of trauma-informed practice when working with vulnerable children is emphasised throughout, to help practitioners provide the best for the children in their care.Trade ReviewInnovative therapeutic life story work explores a highly creative way of working, safely, compassionately and effectively with the most painful aspects of children's life stories. It is a must for any child professional wanting to help traumatised children make sense of their lives, and see the connection between what has happened to them in the past and how they experience themselves and others now. Through moving case material and a wealth of practical ideas, practitioners from all over the world, convey the child's sheer relief at having at last found their voice and established a coherent narrative for their lives. -- Dr Margot Sunderland Director of Education and Training, The Centre for Child Mental Health LondonThis latest book by Richard Rose and colleagues reflects the essence of therapeutic life story work, whereby the worker holds out one hand to the child and the other hand to the carer and says to the child 'show us your world.' Something very special happens when a child takes your hand in trust when crossing the road and this is a tough road to cross. In this book, Richard and colleagues show us the world of therapeutic life story work and what it looks, feels and sounds like, so we too can help children make this journey of discovery. -- Annette Jackson - Regional Director Berry Street Gippsland, Australia (Adj Assoc Professor La Trobe University)My initial hope - that I would be able to learn from this book about how life story work is best used - has definitely been fulfilled. But, in addition to that, where young people have not had the opportunity to write their life stories, in a way that is meaningful to them, I can now confidently help them to work through this process and gain deeper insight. I would recommend this book to anyone working with young people who may have experienced some form of trauma and now seek to understand this more fully. -- Trisha Packer, counsellor and supervisor * BACP - Children, Young people & families *I recommend this comprehensive study as essential reading for practitioners across the world working with children who have experienced adverse childhood experiences and very commonly experience feelings of self-blame and shame. Readers will discover a richness of experience and resources to assist them, understand and develop their practice to help children.'Explore the past, secure the present and allow for growth in the future'. (P 25) -- Catherine Mullin, Independent Social Worker * Seen and Heard *Table of ContentsForeword - Deborah D. Gray; Preface; PART I: Introducing therapeutic life story work, theory and practice; 1. Introducing the Therapeutic Life Story Model: All of us share something in common - we are all a collection of stories - Richard Rose AAP. 2. The Vital Process of Recovery - Richard Rose. 3. Communicating with Children: Therapeutic Life Story Work Techniques - Richard Rose. 4. The Complexity of the Life Story Practitioner's Role - Nadine Jay, Child Centred Therapy, UK. PART II: Therapeutic life story work in diverse contexts. 5. Kaitiakitanga: Safeuarding the Memories of Foster Children's Experiences Through the Use of Therapeutic Life Story Work - Marni Otway, Social worker, NZ. 6. A Dramatic and Narrative Approach to Life Story Therapy, Facilitating Attachment in Adoption - Joan Moore, ASA (Adoption Support Agency), ISW, UK. 7. Therapeutic Life Story Work with Looked After Children in Japan - Shoko Tokunaga, The Nippon Foundation, JAPAN. 8. Wondering from the Womb: Therapeutic Life Story Work in an early years service - Kathy Crouch, Mallee District Aboriginal Services, AUS. 9. Therapeutic Life Story Work: A Multimodal Therapy for Children With Complex Needs - Dr Rebecca Wild, Queensland Health, AUS. 10. Seeing My Journey With New Eyes: Therapeutic Life Story Work With Deaf People - Dr Goedele A.M. De Clerck, University of Manchester, UK. PART III: Implementing therapeutic life story work. 11. Dispelling the Karma - Soula Kontomichalos, Elise Saunders, Del Aulich, Sebastian LaSpina and Anna Fasolo, Department of Health and Human Services, AUS. 12. The Implementation of Therapeutic Life Story Work, Practice Review of a Pilot Progam - Dr Jodie Park, Family Pathway Solutions, AUS. 13. Life Story Therapy in a School Setting - Paula Price, Creative Child Therapy, UK. 14. The Spin Project, Evora and Lisbon - Professor Maria Barros and Margarida Marques, PORTUGAL. 15. Project Logic - Providing Services and Support for the Provision of Therapeutic Life Story Work - Amanda Jones, Berry Street, AUS. 16. Learning to Understand, Therapeutic Life Story Work at Metro Intensive Support Services NSW - Melissa Stokes, Anna-Elizabeth Mattiuzzo and Natalie O'Keefe, Metro ISS, AUS. PART IV: 17. Spreading the practice of therapeutic life story work: We're All Stories in the End - Kendra Morris-Jacobson, Oregon Post Adoption Resource Center (ORPARC), USA. Epilogue.

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Book SynopsisTheraplay® is an attachment-focused model of parenting that helps parents to understand and relate to their child. Based on a sequence of play activities that are rooted in neuroscience, Theraplay offers a fun and easy way for parents and children to connect. Theraplay is particularly effective with looked after and adopted children.By providing an overview of Theraplay and the psychological principles that it is based on, parents and carers will gain an understanding of the basic theory of the model along with practical ideas for applying Theraplay to everyday family life. Through everyday case studies and easy language, parents will gain confidence and learn new skills for emotional bonding, empathy, and acceptance in the relationship with their child.Trade ReviewViv and Helen clearly bring the tried and tested Theraplay principles to parenting. This book gives many ideas and clear structure to help all parents provide an emotionally rich and connected parenting environment. -- Kim Golding, consultant clinical psychologist and author of Everyday Parenting with Security and LoveWhen family life has become a struggle, this book can show exhausted, demoralised parents the way back to having fun together, while repairing damage and building trust in their wounded child in the process. -- Ann Bell, Director Wales/Cyfarwyddwr Cymru, Adoption UKUnderstanding and bringing to life the many ideas contained in this book will be of great value to us and to our children. -- Daniel Hughes, Ph.D. Founder of Dyadic Developmental PsychotherapyThis is a tranquil book where the reader is led by the hand and yet the practical ideas and accessible knowledge gifted to the reader, light up the brain like a Christmas tree. -- Veronica Read, Group Analyst and Educational Consultant and author of Developing Attachment in Early Years Settings and Building Positive Relationships with the Parents of Young ChildrenWritten in a helpful, kind and practical way that doesn't make you feel as though you need to be a super-parent 24/7. As the authors say, Theraplay is about giving hope and increasing joy and their book does that with bubbles, feathers and face paints on. -- Sally Donovan, author of The Unofficial Guide to Adoptive Parenting and Billy Bramble and The Great Big Cook OffTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Foreword by Phyllis Booth (Co-founder of Theraplay). Foreword by Dafna Lender (Programme Director, The Theraplay Institute). Introduction. PART ONE: What is Theraplay? 1. What is Theraplay? 2. Getting Closer to Your Child. 3. Structure. 4. Engagement. 5. Nurture. 6. Challenge. PART TWO: Everyday Examples. 7. Using Theraplay to Help with Everyday Transitions and Change. 8. Thinking About Behavioural Issues. 9. Putting it all together. 10. Description of Theraplay Activities. 11. Further Resources.

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Book SynopsisThis direct guide supports practitioners in nurturing personal, social and emotional development (PSED) in young children by demystifying brain development research. Condensing a wealth of recent research and theory around PSED into practical guidance, it gives professionals the knowledge and understanding they need to critically evaluate their own practice and find the best course of action to support PSED in young children. From the perspective of neuroscience, it explores what can help or hinder development, considers why some children bite and why toddlers have tantrums, and questions how well-intentioned actions, such as reward systems or putting new foods on a plate for children to 'just try', may be misguided.Trade ReviewIn this remarkable book, Debbie Garvey has brilliantly analysed both the reasons and the techniques for nurturing PSED. From theory and neuroscience to lifelong practice via well meaning, wellbeing and the importance of listening, Debbie explains it all in a thoroughly engaging, affable style. Most importantly, she inspires genuine, and sometimes challenging, self-reflection on practice, using some novel, intriguing and effective methods. -- Kathy Brodie, Early Years Professional and TrainerIn this stimulating and provocative book Debbie Garvey has provided inspiring and practical narratives, underpinned by neuroscientific evidence and a clear values set, which creates a reflective and action focused agenda for all those who work with young children. I believe anyone who reads this book will be inspired and motivated to challenge and extend their thinking and professional practice, adopting the critical and nurturing stance which lies at the heart of quality services for children and families. -- Professor Chris Pascal, Director, Centre for Research in Early ChildhoodThis book is designed to challenge thinking and aid reflective practice, to consider whether current practices are fit-for-purpose, and whether you are fully supporting young children. This is accomplished through debate on theory, case studies and numerous examples of best practice.The final chapter brings everything together by looking at how the theory of the preceding chapters can be turned into lifelong practice. This is an excellent book that will both challenge and inspire you. -- Early Years Educator (EYE)Table of ContentsForeword by Dr. Suzanne Zeedyk. Introduction. 1. Brain Development, Neuroscience and PSED. 2. Perspectives and Influences on PSED. 3. Well-Meaning? 4. Promoting Children's Wellbeing. 5. The Importance of Listening. 6. Theory into Lifelong Practice. Appendix. Sample Reflective Action Plan for Practice (RAPP). Blank Reflective Action Plan for Practice (RAPP). Endnote: Reflecting on Personal, Social and Emotional Development.

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Book SynopsisFull of simple strategies for happiness in children and teens with autism, this book is a must read for anyone dedicated to the wellbeing of a child on the spectrum.Bringing a refreshingly positive approach to mental health and autism, the guide is full of practical ideas for helping children strengthen their self-worth, optimism and receptivity to happiness. It also reveals how children can build resilience and better understand their feelings, giving them the skills to flourish and thrive and to ward off negative thoughts. The activities are ideal for all learning levels and can be done individually or in groups, at home or in the classroom. Talking about mental health in autism is all too often reduced to ways of 'curing illness' - this book helps to prevent poor mental health by making happiness a priority and an attainable goal.Trade ReviewIt is great to read a book that focuses on happiness. Victoria Honeybourne has written a book that you can read cover to cover if you have an interest in the field, or as a dip in resource if you are working with a student and need some ideas fast. I can see this being a valuable tool in schools. -- Kate Bradley, Head of Autism & Inclusion in an Inner London school and co-author of 101 Inclusive and SEN Maths LessonsThis really is a wonderful resource ... knowing how busy many teachers/practitioners are, the 'top tips' and 'if you only have 5 minutes' sections are of great value. -- Georgina Roycroft, Advisory teacher for autismWhat a refreshing book this is ... filled with practical ideas and activities to build confidence, self-esteem and resilience. This is a fantastic resource for parents and professionals and I'm sure that it will enrich many lives. -- Adele Devine, special needs teacher, author and co-founder of the multi-award-winning SEN Assist autism softwareTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. If you only have five minutes... 2. Understanding the autism spectrum. 3. Understanding positive psychology. 4. Recognising, identifying and using character strengths. 5. Cultivating positive emotions. 6. Positive coping. 7. Meaning and Purpose. Glossary. References. Further Resources / Reading. Appendix A: Strengths Cards. Appendix B: Happiness Survey. Appendix C: Optimistic Planning Sheet. Appendix D: Dealing with setbacks. Appendix E: Overcoming anxieties. Appendix F: Values List. Index of activities.

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Book SynopsisChildren who have encountered trauma early in life can experience real differences in their social and cognitive development. This comprehensive guide introduces what such developmental difference means, how it affects a child, and offers strategies to help support or alleviate problems that commonly arise.Dr. McLean explains how children with developmental differences understand the world around them and offers easy to use techniques to help children with sensory and emotional regulation difficulties or delays in language, communication or memory development. This book will provide you with the knowledge and confidence you need to meet your own child's individual needs, and to help them to flourish.Trade ReviewCarers often cry out for information about how to understand the challenging behaviours of children who have come into their care. Dr McLean provides not just an understanding of key developmental milestones and the role of adversity, but practical guidance on how to meet the needs of children with 'developmental difference'. -- Professor Daryl Higgins, PhD, MAPS ICPS Director Australian Catholic UniversityAddressing a broad range of parenting and practice issues in a clear accessible style this guide is an informative and valuable resource for adoptive and foster carers , practitioners and educators. -- Professor Elizabeth Fernandez, The University of New South Wales, AustraliaI commend this book as an essential read for all current and future caregivers who want to understand their child's behaviour and to parent more effectively. -- Amanda Porter, Chief Executive Officer Connecting Foster & Kinship Carers – SA IncThe author has usefully brought together information on multiple aspects of a child's development, which, when functioning as it should, contributes to the child attaining a healthy and fulfilled life. New insights are provided for the reader - not necessarily on the specific developmental differences, which are knowledge-base dependant, but rather on how this all connects and interrelates; the body-mind connection. This book is written with foster carers and adoptive parents in mind. The information it contains is also beneficial for professionals within fostering and adoption services, enhancing their knowledge of child development from multiple aspects and is, therefore, a valuable resource for all. * Seen and Heard *Table of ContentsIntroduction; 1: Early Adversity And Developmental Difference; 2. An Introduction To Normal Development; 3: An Introduction To The Reasons For Challenging Behaviour; 4. Developmental Difference In Sensory Regulation; 5. Developmental difference in language and communication; 6. Developmental difference in emotional regulation; 7. Developmental Difference in Executive Functioning; 8. Developmental Difference in Social Information Processing; 9. Communicating about your child's Developmental Difference to others; 10. Summary; Resources

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Book SynopsisThis comprehensive and accessible guide contains everything that needs to be known in order to set up and run a Minecraft® Social Group for children with autism spectrum disorders.Minecraft®, often described as 'digital Lego', provides an ideal forum to help children with autism and related conditions to develop social and communication skills. This book offers guidance on how to use the game to support the learning of social and emotional concepts such as having a conversation, showing interest in others and understanding another person's point of view.With over 100 pages of photocopiable and downloadable session plans, visuals and handouts, this manual is essential reading for professionals working with autism who are interested in introducing Minecraft® to support social skill development in their students.Trade ReviewMotivation, in autism, switches us on! Outside of 'interest' connecting to social understanding is unlikely. The author of this book recognises this understanding. Such a resource is unique and has been a long time coming. I am excited by and highly recommend this insightful book. -- Wenn B. Lawson (PhD) Psychology. AFBPsS; MAPs. Senior Consultant Complex Support. SA. Dept. of Ed. Disability, Policy & PlanningChildren with autism often develop talents in specific areas, such as playing computer games, but have difficulties with the social skills needed to develop friendships. This ingenious and engaging group programme uses motivation and game-playing talents to teach specific social skills. By discovering new worlds within Minecraft, the participants explore and acquire the social abilities needed to make friends. -- Dr Tony Attwood, Minds and Hearts Clinic, BrisbaneMarch's Autism Book of the Month is: Teaching Social Skills to Children with Autism Using Minecraft® ??Sure Lego therapy is cool, but have you heard about how Minecraft is being used to develop social skills in autistic children?A SUPER accessible step by step guide to improving communication ability in younger autists, 'Teaching Social Skills to Children with Autism Using Minecraft' stands apart from other stuffy autism support manuals by suggesting that the literal building blocks to verbal & collaborative success may lie in the global gaming phenomenon that is Minecraft: a creation simulator/videogame.While, most autism support guides have a tendency to be quite dry, or assuming of how much a reader knows, TSSTCWAUS does a fantastic job of explaining why autistic people struggle socialising and it's clear explanations mean that there is plenty of autism lessons to learn (even if, by the end, you decide not to trial the new therapy).An innovative read, set to shake up the world of autism therapies, I highly recommend 'Teaching Social Skills to Children with Autism Using Minecraft' for parents with autistic children born in the 2000s. Autistic & Unapologetic * Facebook Page Autistic & Unapologetic *Table of ContentsAcknowledgements. Introduction. Part 1. 1. What are social skills? 2. How are social skills impaired in children with Autism? 3. How can group programs support children with Autism to develop social skills? 4. What is Minecraft? 5. Why use Minecraft to teach social skills? Part 2. 6. Getting set up. 7. Running the program. 8. Sessions plans and handouts. Part 3: Resources. 9. Minecraft Money. 10. Minecraft Snakes and Ladders. 11. Helpful websites. Bibliography.

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Book SynopsisThis essential book shows practitioners how they can engage with teens' online lives to support their mental health. Drawing on interviews with young people it discusses how adults can have open and inquiring conversations with teens about both the positive and negative aspects of their use of online spaces.For most young people there is no longer a barrier between their 'real' and 'online' lives. This book reviews the latest research around this topic to investigate how those working with teenagers can use their insights into digital technologies to promote wellbeing in young people. It draws extensively on interviews with young people aged 12-16 throughout, who share their views about social media and reveal their online habits. Chapters delve into how teens harness online spaces such as YouTube, Instagram and gaming platforms for creative expression and participation in public life to improve their mental health and wellbeing. It also provides a framework for practitioners to start conversations with teens to help them develop resilience in respect of their internet use. The book also explores key risks such as bullying and online hate, social currency and the quest for 'likes', sexting, and online addiction.This is essential reading for teachers, school counsellors, social workers, and CAMHS professionals (from psychiatrists to mental health nurses) - in short, any practitioner working with teenagers around mental health.Trade ReviewWorried about young people's use of the internet? Worried about its effect on their mental health? This book is informative, wise and realistic, exploring ways young people can be helped to be resilient and thoughtful as they embrace the opportunities and challenges of the internet. Parents and professionals will find this book extremely enlightening and practical. -- Nick Luxmoore, Psychotherapist, Trainer, Supervisor and AuthorAs both a parent and a professional, I love that this book draws on the emerging evidence base as well as consultation with teens, parents and professionals to provide practical guidance on how to promote positive mental health in an online world. It's a tough topic and there's a real disconnect between the generations; this book bridges the gap beautifully. -- Pooky Knightsmith, Mental Health Author and EducatorAt last! A practical guide that cuts through the media scaremongering about digital technology and youth mental health, and offers evidence-based advice for parents and practitioners. I love the way that teen voices and stories are woven into this essential book. Betton and Woollard give sage advice: forget about banning, blaming and educating our young people; if you want to attain true (h)appiness you must: explore, inquire and ally. -- André Tomlin, The Mental ElfUnderstanding the benefits, risks, and new horizons for teen mental health in the digital age is of critical importance for parents, teachers, clinicians, and policy makers. Renowned subject experts, Victoria Betton and James Woollard, now offer the first authoritative and comprehensive synthesis of the topic in this delightfully accessible and engaging text. Highly recommend for those seeking actionable knowledge and key insights at the intersection of the digital world and teen mental health. -- John Torous MD MBI. Director of Digital Psychiatry at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical SchoolIn all the gloomy, even punitive talk about teens and social media, this spirited volume is most welcome. Betton and Woollard don't shy away from the worrying evidence of youthful mental health problems. But they weigh that evidence fairly, interpret it carefully, and set it in the context of the opportunities afforded by digital media. As they rightly ask, now that children grow up immersed in the digital age, what matters is what we - the responsible adults - do to support their mental health and their rights. Their many constructive suggestions point the way for parents, teachers, policy makers and others: I hope these adults are listening! -- Sonia Livingstone, author of The Class: Living and Learning in the Digital Age, London School of Economics and Political ScienceTable of ContentsChapter 1. Introduction. Chapter 2. Social media, digital technologies and the internet: introducing teens' connected realities. Chapter 3. Getting creative - the affordances of digital for good mental health. Chapter 4. Developmental Frameworks and Perspectives. Chapter 5. From digital natives to digital differences. Chapter 6. Understanding adverse experiences online. Chapter 7. Digital resilience and digital rights. Chapter 8. A three-step framework for supporting teens' digital resilience. Chapter 9. Implications of digital technologies for young people's services.

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Book SynopsisThera-Build' is a LEGO®-based therapeutic approach for improving children's emotional well-being. Participation in Thera-Build groups can help to boost self-esteem, address common issues such as anxiety and anger, support social development and build positive attachments.This inspiring and user-friendly guide explores the power of play, introduces the basics of brain plasticity and attachment theory, and shows exactly how to set up and run an effective Thera-Build group. A wide range of imaginative games and activities is included.Trade ReviewThis book is accessible, creative, fun, imaginative, informative, sensitive, and so much more! It takes an item that so many children love and find familiar and non-threatening; and provides the reader with a whole range of fantastic and therapeutic ways of using lego and expanding on lego play. It combines using lego in a playful way, but also in a way that supports children to express themselves, to regulate, to trust, and to develop key life and relational skills. A wonderful contribution to the direct-working world. -- Dr Karen Treisman, Clinical Psychologist, trainer, and author of 'A Therapeutic Treasure Box for Working with Developmental Trauma', 'Working with Relational and Developmental Trauma', and 'A Treasure Deck of Sentence-Completion and Feelings Cards'.An easy-to-read, practical book, presenting everything needed to facilitate a valuable therapeutic resource for vulnerable children. A great guide to use for interventions in the primary school. -- Dawn James, Inclusion Lead and SENCo.This is a refreshing book for this moment in education. Through the medium of bricks, Alyson Thomsen explores the developmental and emotional realities of the child with compassion and sensitivity. The structure of the book brings theory and practical ideas together seamlessly. A must-read for reflective and playful educators and parents who want to understand the motivations behind great learning. A gem! -- Sue Egersdorff - Founder and Director of International Early YearsThis book helpfully demonstrates the power of Lego to inspire, engage and energise pupils. Aly has a wealth of experience of working with pupils and this is evident in the advice and suggestions shared. Each chapter helps to build up a picture to enable the reader to successfully implement the Thera-Build process. This book will undoubtedly be of great benefit to schools, parents and mostly importantly our pupils. -- Stephen Dean, Headteacher at Highnam C of E Primary Academy & Lego BuilderThera-Build is a truly wonderful therapeutic approach in supporting children's needs. This book is an easy-to-read guide to help practitioners facilitate activities using the medium of LEGO®, specifically targeting areas of need and providing an overall understanding to enable professionals to help stimulate children's imaginations in a playful way in order to reach their true potential. -- Adriana Sklenar, Pastoral Support Team, Hester’s Way Primary SchoolAlyson provides a perfect route in to playing with purpose. Drawing both on her experience as a practitioner and the growing evidence-base around therapeutic play, Alyson has developed a deceptively simple, safe approach that has the potential to impact children deeply. -- Dr Pooky Knightsmith, Vice Chair of the Children and Young People’s Mental Health CoalitionThis book will definitely have a central place on my bookshelf. As an avid LEGO® builder and child therapist I am forever seeking ways to combine one of my favourite activities with my vocation. Thera-Build successfully supplied me with a primer full of new ideas and techniques. The book is easy to read and clearly set out. The author assists novice and experienced clinicians, teachers and others working with children to understand the challenges children face. It demonstrates how to build a child's resilience, provide them with a safe and respectful environment, and support them. -- Elsa Struwig, social workerI can honestly say this book is my Lego Bible!From not knowing where to start the sessions, this book takes you through how to deliver playful, fun and postive experiences for the children using a therapeutic approach.Aly is a brilliant trainer with so much passion for Lego you can not help but love it too. * Hazel Obee, Learning Support Worker at The Milestone School in Gloucester *Table of Contents1. Thera-Build: Introduction and Fundamentals. 2. Why LEGO®? and The Importance of Play. 3. The Brain Science Behind Thera-Build. 4. Thera-Build, Early Childhood Trauma, and Attachment. 5. Creating a Secure Alliance with Thera-Build. 6. Using LEGO® to Self-Regulate and Self-Soothe. 7. Meeting Developmental Needs and Listening Skills. 8. The Practicalities of Resourcing, Hygiene and Organisation. 9. Thera-Build and Simple CBT. 10. LEGO® Activities. Final Thoughts. Final Checklist. Appendix. Biography/References.

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Book SynopsisEven though Gilly the Giraffe has many wonderful things in her life, she sometimes lacks confidence. Why does she have to stand out so much with her long neck, her long black tongue and her mosaic patches? Why do some of the other animals point and laugh at her? Can it be possible to be different and to be cool?This activity book developed by expert child psychologist Dr Karen Treisman combines a colourfully illustrated therapeutic story about Gilly the Giraffe to help start conversations, which is followed by a wealth of creative activities for children to explore and build upon some of the ideas raised in the story, and beyond! The activities are accompanied by extensive advice and practical strategies for parents, carers and professionals on how to help children aged 5-10 boost their self-esteem and confidence.This activity book is complemented by a standalone picture book of Gilly's story, also available from Jessica Kingsley Publishers (Gilly the Giraffe, ISBN 9781839970290).Trade ReviewExploring this resource I held in mind the children I primarily come across in my role as a Social Worker in a Family Placement Team. Self-esteem is something which many of these children lack significantly as a result of their early experiences, poor attachment relationships and trauma... There is a broad spectrum of strengths-based activities within the book - some more cognitive and also many creative and sensory focussed resources with which children affected by poor attachment and developmental trauma could more easily engage... The guide explores barriers to positive self-esteem including cultural, familial and generational differences in how we view praise and positive feedback. All in all, this resource is extremely comprehensive and accessible. -- CairnsMoir Connections, Book of the Month, August 2019

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Book SynopsisBinnie is an energetic baboon, who bounces around the lush green mountains of Rwanda in East Africa. But like many of us, Binnie often feels worried and stressed, and these worries can get in her way! What if she gets lost in the jungle, or her family gets sick? What if no one likes her? Sometimes she even worries about the fact she's worried; and if she isn't worried, well why not?! This activity book has been developed by expert child psychologist Dr Karen Treisman. The first part of the book is a colourful illustrated therapeutic story about Binnie the Baboon, with a focus on worry and anxiety. This is followed by a wealth of creative activities and photocopiable worksheets for children to explore issues relating to anxiety, worry, fears, and stress, and how to find ways to understand and overcome them. The final section of the book is full of advice and practical strategies for parents, carers, and professionals on how to help children aged 5-10 to start to understand why they experience feelings of anxiety, and what they can do to help reduce and navigate it.This activity book is complemented by a standalone picture book of Binnie's story, also available from Jessica Kingsley Publishers (Binnie the Baboon, ISBN 9781839970252).Trade ReviewAs with all the books in this series Karen's creativity and imagination shines through. Anxiety and stress are helpful for all of us, to get the best from ourselves and to manage difficulties in our lives. When anxiety and stress become too big, they cease to be adaptive. This activity book provides a feast of ideas for understanding, noticing and managing anxiety and stress when it becomes troubling whilst also helping children to know that these worries are normal and can be managed. This resource will increase children's resilience. Parents can also feel more confident in helping their children with the aid of this resource. Karen has produced another great edition for her series to help children with the range of difficulties they may encounter. -- Kim S Golding, Clinical Psychologist, DDP Trainer and AuthorBinnie the Baboon is an engaging story that introduces children to anxiety. The story is full of colourful characters who each share many helpful ideas for managing worries. The workbook provides an opportunity to explore these ideas further and offers a wealth of activity suggestions for children and parents. This is a great resource for parents and therapists alike. -- Dr Fiona Zandt and Dr Suzanne Barrett, authors of Creative Ways to Help Children Manage BIG Feelings and founders of Creative Child Therapy Workshops

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Book SynopsisThis book is a must read for anyone parenting, teaching or supporting teens, who wants to empower them to reach their potential. Written by a team of clinical psychologists, it leads you through tried and tested strategies to build strong relationships and improve communication with young people as they develop, learn and grow. In the book we learn that the 'teenage brain' is unique which gives us an incredible opportunity for change and development, but it is also a time when young people are particularly sensitive and potentially vulnerable . It guides you through ways to communicate effectively with teens without negatively affecting their self-esteem. There are plenty of tips about what to say, what not say and the best mindset to use with teens, day to day.The authors draw from the latest research in neuroscience and psychology, years of clinical expertise and first-hand parenting experience. It's relatable like your best friend's advice, and informed by scientific evidence - easy to read, hard to put down.Trade ReviewThis book is full of practical advice for parents of teenagers. It uses up-to-date understanding of how the brain works to give sensible, useful guides on how to handle adolescents. It reflects a new revolution in our understanding of how relationships can affect brain structure, and gives sensible advice on how to optimise children and young people's development so they are set up with healthy brains for the rest of their lives. -- Stephen Scott CBE FRCPsych FMedSci Professor of Child Health and Behaviour, Kings’s College London, Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at Maudsley HospitalThe Incredible Teenage Brain is a brilliant distillation of the best advice that we can give parents and professionals based on what we have learned about the brain and mind over the past 50 years. It is exceptionally accessible notwithstanding the extraordinary wealth of information it contains on adolescent behaviour. It is perhaps the best book for mental health professionals to recommend to families. But they also should make sure to keep a copy on their shelf. -- Professor Peter Fonagy OBE FMedSci FBA FAcSS PhD DipPsy, Head of the Division of Psychology and Language Sciences Director, Chief Executive, Anna Freud National Centre for Children & Families, National Clinical Advisor on Children’s Mental HealthAn exciting book. It unravels the complexities of teenage thoughts, stresses and behaviour patterns and shows adults how to respond in a positive and uplifting way. This builds up self-belief, happiness and ambition. I wish this had been around when my children were teenagers! -- Diana Hudson, author of Specific Learning Difficulties What Teachers Need to Know, secondary school teacher and mother to four adult childrenThis is an insightful, inspiring and fun book that opens the lid on the often misunderstood and sometimes maligned world of the teenager. Drawing on personal experience and the authors' work as clinicians it reveals how teenagers are affected by brain development, their expanding social world and self-concept as emerging adults. Invaluable for parents and those who work with teens. -- Prof. Tony Charman, Chair in Clinical Child Psychology, King’s College LondonSuch a useful and reassuring book for parents, carers and anyone working with young people. The authors dismiss the stereotype of the 'troublemaker teen' and spell out with great clarity how we can all help our teenagers to flourish. They explain why teens are at the height of their learning potential in all areas of life and show us how, by choosing our words carefully and making shifts in our own behaviour, we can help them shine. -- Margaret Rooke, author 'You can Change the World. Everyday Teen Heroes Making a Difference Everywhere' and 'Dyslexia is my Superpower (Most of the Time)'This book's a relief to read! A fresh and heartening take on how to see and work with teen potential, it gives a positive, practical steer on the grittiest of problems, along with plenty of examples and some great, direct solutions that actually work. Anything that helps us understand and elegantly manage the inherent ups and downs that come with having teenagers in the family is valuable stuff. If you wished that modern teens came with a manual, honestly, you need look no further. -- Samantha Murray Greenway (parent of two teenagers)This brilliantly written book celebrates the teenager and simply and clearly explains the biological, psychological and social impacts of adolescence. By really understanding the teenage brain it is possible to enable our children to navigate this key developmental time without our anxiety getting in the way. This book will empower us all to enable our teen to develop into the best version of themselves while holding strong during some of the inevitable challenges on the way. Every family should buy a copy on their child's 13th birthday! -- Professor Tanya Byron, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, journalist, author, broadcaster, LondonBettina Hohnen, Tara Murphy, and Jane Gilmour have written an accessible, useful and fun guide for parents and teachers of adolescents. They do an admirable job of explaining several aspects of the developmental changes taking place in adolescence-and tying these changes to practical tips and exercises for those wanting to support adolescents. Most importantly, they effectively convey how adolescence represents a period of opportunity-a time of learning and development. -- Ronald E. Dahl MD, Professor, Community Health Sciences and Professor, Joint MedicalAny teacher who works with teenagers will find this book fascinating and invaluable. The science of the brain is explained so clearly and offers a new way to look at the rapidly developing brain and how it influences teen behavior and learning. The malleability of the teen brain is reflected in the unpredictable behavior of teenagers as well as their ability to learn rapidly. This book explains the neuroscience of learning. Bettina, Jane and Tara emphasise the primary need for emotional security as a secure base for learning in school and they give many examples of how stress and anxiety affect the brain and interfere with learning. What I love the most about this book is that it is written with emotional insight and a great deal of compassion. Bettina, Jane and Tara and offer a hopeful and positive way to look at adolescent behavior which has often been seen as negative and offer many examples of how teachers can create a 'positive cycle of learning'. -- Sarah Fortna, teacher and learning specialistI'm blown away by this book, I just couldn't put it down. As I turned the pages, it made me reflect not just on my teenage children, but on my own teenage years. I'm refreshed, inspired and can't wait to share it with my friends . It's so full of useful recommendations that I'll be using it like TripAdvisor in researching my teens for months and years to come. -- Valerie Lindsay (mother of teenage children)Your child's teen years can feel like a dark, hazardous path. Here's the guide every parent wishes for, sending up flares of light to ease your way and practical tools to overcome the too-recognisable, real-life pitfalls. The wise authors' compassionate insights will have you bring out the best, rather than suppress, the powerful joyful potential of your teenager's developing mind. I do dearly wish I'd had it in the 2000s. -- Sheila Fitzgerald, mother of three now adult girlsTable of ContentsForeword; Introduction; Section 1: The Incredible Teen Brain; 1. Upgrade: the incredible teenage brain; 2. The brain thinks and feels; 3. The brain learns and believes; 4. The brain connects, watches and absorbs; 5. The brain loves other people; Section 2: Teens facing additional challenges; 6. Teen mental health: When teen brains can become overwhelmed; 7. Neurodiverse teen brains - teenagers with a learning difference; Section 3: The developmental priorities, or 'tasks' of a teenager; 8. Social factors and natural attractors; 9. Teens' Risk taking Sets them Up for Adult Lifeand - and builds important brain circuitry; 10. The power of feelings and motivation; 11. Who Am I? the teenage search for identity; 12. Ready to launch (with your help); Section 4: The importance of cCare and self-care for the developing teenage brain; 13. Sleepy teens; 14. Energy in, energy out - creating healthy habits in the teen brain; 15. Good stress, bad stress; 16. #Social media and technology; Section 5: May The Force Be With You, Luke; 17. The Last Word

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Book SynopsisOffering practical guidance on encouraging creativity in early childhood settings, this much-needed book highlights the importance of the arts and creativity for children's learning, critical thinking, social interaction and self-regulation.The book considers the impact of creativity on early brain development and discusses how to choose the right arts or creative approach for your children. Principles for creative curriculums, teaching, assessments and environments are provided and each chapter includes a 'practitioner toolkit' element, with reflective questions and practical strategies for implementing the learning from the chapter into daily practice.Trade ReviewCapturing the inherent creativity of children and using it to empower, learn and change children themselves - and us - is what makes this book such a great read. Churchill Dower makes the case that language, social interaction and positive brain development are just the beginning of what being creative can deliver for society via our children. Exploration and the very joy of play our only limited by our imaginations. -- Gregory Lane, Soho Family CentreIn a culture where children are increasingly represented by numbers this thought-provoking book is an essential, much needed read. Research based throughout leaving you with a passionate desire to bring creativity to the forefront of education. Ruth balances knowledge of the crucial importance of creativity in early years with practical, motivating methods and questions for reflection to inspire, challenge and improve practise. -- Kate Shelley, Tales ToolkitTable of Contents1. What is creativity all about? 2. The origins of creativity. 3. The benefits of creativity. 4. Measuring the impact of creativity. 5. The social, educational and political context for creativity. 6. Testing for creative traits. 7. Creating the conditions for creativity. 8. Can creativity enhance early brain development? 9. Using different art forms in early years practice. 10. Creative practices. 11. Creative pedagogies. 12. What stops creativity?

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Book Synopsis"You know, Dr. Dan, that kid is from my planet."With in-depth descriptions of LEGO®-based therapy in action, this book explains how and why it helps to promote the development of social skills for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and related conditions. Written by Daniel B. LeGoff, who pioneered the approach, this book comprises a series of case histories of children who participated in LEGO® therapy. It traces the development of the evidence-based approach, shares the clinical insights gained along the way and highlights the principles which should be at the core of all effective treatment and educational strategies for children with ASDs. The case histories have real practical value for those working with children with ASDs and also help to demonstrate the subtleties of the adult facilitation role for professionals running sessions.Trade ReviewDaniel B. LeGoff, the inventor of LEGO®-Based Therapy, has provided a colourful set of case studies to help teachers and clinicians get a real feel for how to implement this playful and non-stigmatising intervention with kids with autism. LEGO®-Based Therapy harnesses their strong drive to systemise to help them learn how to socialise. It is also intrinsically rewarding for such kids. As such, it is a pleasurable experience for both the therapist and the child. -- Professor Simon Baron-Cohen, Director, Autism Research Centre, Cambridge University, UKIt honestly didn't feel like I was reading an educational book, it's written so beautifully that its almost like reading a novel. I was enthralled with the case studies that give examples of children taking part in the therapy. Daniel LeGoff has a wonderful way of re-telling his sessions-that makes you feel like you're there in his office with him from the moment the child starts their therapy... I loved that this book was heavily supported by it's large number of case studies; that form an integral part of the book. It makes the book relatable and real. -- senresourcesblog.com * senresourcesblog.com *Table of Contents1. Introduction. 1.1. Case Studies. Aaron. Sam. Evan. 2. Facilitating the Groups. 2.1 Case Studies. Jonathan. Keith. 3. Moving to New Jersey and Developing a Deeper Understanding of Autism. 3.1 Case Studies. Anthony. Allen. Charlie. Paul. Colin. Sean. Vicky. Zeke. Matthew. 4. Conclusion. 4.1. Future Directions. References

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Book SynopsisThis innovative book brings together a wide range of therapeutic approaches, techniques and models to outline recent developments in the practice of supporting children in out-of-home care. It sheds light on the significance of schools, sports and peer relationships in the lives of traumatized children. It also draws particular attention to the vital importance of taking into account children's cultural heritage, and to the growing prevalence of relative care.Each chapter is set out by acclaimed and world-renowned contributors' specific approach, such as Dan Hughes and his work on conceptual maps and Cathy Malchiodi and her research on creative interventions, and gives practical ways to support children and carers. It also includes contributions from Bruce Perry, Allan Schore and Martin Teicher. This comprehensive volume will open new avenues for understanding how the relationship between child and carer can create opportunities for change and healing.Trade ReviewFinally, a book that successfully addresses all of the complex bio-psycho-social-developmental consequences of early trauma! Therapeutic Care treats the embodied and encultured mind at each stage of life in a way that leverages the way the brain evolved to heal - in security and safety. Highly recommended. -- Louis Cozolino Ph.D., Professor of Psychology, Author of The Neuroscience of Human RelationshipsThe Handbook of Therapeutic Care is a wonderfully practical and readable guide for all of us dedicated to creating pathways to health for children exposed to chronic trauma and abuse - children who are stuck in an inner world filled with helplessness, chaos and danger. Despite the multiplicity of voices of (outstanding) contributors, this handbook provides a unified synthesis of practices that help us understand the pressures from the past on current behavior, and presents a comprehensive and well-tested model to provide sensory, relational and emotional repair for children and young people who carry the legacy of danger, abandonment, and unpredictability. This is the integration we have been waiting for. -- Bessel A. van der Kolk MD, Medical Director, the Trauma Center, Professor of Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, Author: NYT best seller: The Body keeps the Score; mind, brain and body in the healing of traumaTable of Contents1. The Need for a New in the Care and Support of Children in Foster, Relative and Adoptive Care. 2. What are the Key Elements of Therapeutic Care? 3. Understanding the Needs of Vulnerable Children: The Importance of Type and Timing of Maltreatment on Brain Development and Risks (Martin Teicher and Orgilmaa Munkbaatar, Belmont MA). 4. The Fundamental Role of the Mother in the Interpersonal Neurobiological Origins of Mutual Love (Allan Schore, Northridge CA). 5. "Support and love and all that stuff": Evidence of impact in the Treatment and Care for Kids Program (Lynne McPherson and Kathomi Gatwiri, Coolangatta and Bilinga, Australia). 6. The Neurosequential Model: A developmentally-sensitive, neuroscience-informed approach to clinical problem solving (Bruce Perry, Chattanooga, TN). 7. Dabakan kooyliny - go slowly, walk slowly, go together: Culturally Strong Therapeutic Care for Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander Children, Families and Communities (Glenda Kickett and Shaun Chandran, Perth, Australia). 8. Children in Kinship Care: Issues for Promoting their Mental Health (Elaine Farmer and Meredith Kiraly, Bristol, UK and Victoria, Australia). 9. Therapeutic Care Teams: Horizontal Teams in the Vertical World of Out of Home Care (Noel MacNamara, Banora Point, Australia). 10. Defining the conceptual maps that resource the day to day interactions between carers and children to become more therapeutic (Daniel Hughes and Jonathan Baylin, South Portland, US and Wilmington, US). 11. Resetting the fabric of love: Real life applications that promote emotional connection in the day to day experience of looked after and adopted children and their parents (Kim Golding, Malvern, UK). 12. Expressive Arts Therapy as Self-Regulatory and Relational Interventions with Children and Caregivers (Cathy Malchiodi, Louisville, US). 13. Therapeutic Care as it Evolves.

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Book SynopsisAnxiety, meltdowns and emotional regulation can be hugely challenging for autistic people. This book is full of proactive strategies for understanding, accepting and respecting the processing differences in autism. It contains tools for reducing sensory, social and mental drain, and offers strategies to protect from ongoing stress and anxiety. These help minimize shutdowns and burnout, while maximizing self-esteem, autistic identity and mental health.Learn strategies for matching environmental demands to the person's processing needs, how to support vulnerabilities, and how to prevent and manage meltdowns while protecting the identify and self-esteem of the individual with autism.Trade ReviewBill Nason's newest addition to the Autism Discussion Page series once again provides parents, educators and health professionals working with Autistic individuals with invaluable insights and practical advice. This comprehensive book skilfully explains the impact of stress and anxiety on Autistic children and adults, and provides many effective strategies that can be applied at home and at school. A wonderful resource. -- Raelene Dundon, psychologist and author of The Parents’ Guide to Managing Anxiety in Children with Autism and Talking with Your Child about Their Autism Diagnosis

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Book SynopsisThis book teaches drama and immersive theatre-based activities for parents and professionals working with children and young people on the autism spectrum. The exercises follow the author's simple, person-centred '3C pathway' of connecting, calming and communicating, and enable parents to gain an understanding of the challenges an autistic child may face by 'walking in their shoes', while empowering children to become more self-aware and express themselves in healthy ways. The activities included in the book are tried-and-tested, accessible and easy to implement, such as breathing exercises, mirroring movements, and treasure hunts. Using these activities, parents and professionals can gain insight into the sensory and social challenges experienced by those on the spectrum and can work to build a positive and trusting relationship, offering a secure base for children's emotional development.Trade ReviewThis book is an excellent and informative analysis of autism in a readable, accessible and relatable way. It is both contextual with the theories of autism and personal accounts which humanise the experiences. Anxiety is the main premise and strategies are shared to offer the reader different strategies for their young ones (and adults) to explore. Highly recommended. -- Paul Isaacs speaker, trainer, consultant and author on the autism spectrumThis is a very positive book that is supportive and the exercises are well described and have been developed and refined in many settings. The authors also stress that the exercises can be personalised as parents 'enter into their child's world and 'lean in' to their passions. -- Mary Mountstephen * SEN Magazine *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. Act for Autism: who, what and why? 2. Creating the Practice: Clear Time and the 3C Pathway 3. Connecting through drama Autism and the Senses4. Why autism is hard to understand 5. Understanding autism as a sensory difference and the link to anxiety 6. What autistic individuals say about their sensory experience7. The senses and how they impact on a child's experienceConnecting through Clear Time and the 3C Pathway 8. What is Clear Time? 9. The first C: Connecting 10. The second C: Calming 11. The third C: Communicating 12. Why is heartbeat so important for the 3C Pathway? 13. The role of drama exercises in our work 14. 3C Pathway exercises Conclusion References

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Book SynopsisYou: "How was your day?"Your child: "Fine."As a parent, you want to know what is going on in your child's life, how school and friendships are going, if they're feeling okay. As a kid you want to tell your parent what's going on, but it can be hard to find the words. This book is brilliant because it makes finding those words easy, and you discover incredible stuff about each other.How exactly do you make it happen? This accessible guide answers the million-dollar question by steering you, step by step through carefully supported and structured conversational platforms that encourage connection and strengthen relationship bonds. Written by two top clinical psychologists who have worked with families over many years they have, uniquely, designed it for you to read and experience, together.Inside this book you will find a range of fun, illustrated child-friendly conversation activities, organised around four key themes: who are you? how are you? what helps? what gets in the way?There is powerful evidence that building good parent-child communication skills improves emotional wellbeing, physical health, academic and employment success. It helps set up a trusting relationship so you can navigate adolescence and later life successfully. It's important to start early because it takes time to learn skills.Trade ReviewTo unlock the power of your relationship with your child for all their years ahead - read this book. -- Prof Tanya Byron, consultant clinical psychologist, author, journalist, broadcaster'When can I do (the conversations) again?' -- Imogen, aged 5'The book made me remember all the happy things and think about things differently. It was really fun' -- Elliot aged 10'This book provides a wonderful way for me and my son to connect, remember and celebrate our special times and work through the tough ones. A beautiful and playful tool for unlocking feelings without drama' -- Peter Drake (Elliot’s Dad)What a wonderful book, suitable for any (and all!) parents and carers, to help you to build a closer relationship with your child through conversations. The authors draw upon years of clinical psychology practice of supporting young people and families, to identify creative, fun conversation starters and concepts, which can help all parents and carers to develop more meaningful connections with their child, and better understand their child's inner world. The book is compassionate and compelling, and acknowledges how tricky it can be sometimes be for all parents and carers to 'find a way in' with their child. It gives copious, helpful, wide-ranging advice. I will certainly be buying a copy, and highly recommending the book to parents, carers, families, professionals and everyone! -- Dr Sue Knowles, consultant clinical psychologist, lead for child and family services at Changing Minds UK, researcher, and authorWhile the art of conversation is not easy for autistic children, the incredible conversation activities in this excellent book, will facilitate mutual understanding, self-reflection and emotion regulation. Although this book was primarily written for parents, I strongly recommend that psychologists, therapists, and teachers incorporate the activities in their work with children who have communication difficulties. -- Tony Attwood, professor of clinical psychology, Griffith University, and authorPerhaps the most valuable lessons we can give our children are how to develop and maintain good relationships, as the correlation between healthy and good relationships, and success and happiness is indisputable. This book takes that rather daunting responsibility and breaks it down into clear, fun and eminently doable practices that can be weaved into everyday life... considerably reducing the number of 'How was your day?' - 'Fine' conversations! Moreover, whilst this book will certainly help the child/parent communication experience, its learnings can be applied to all relationships, which is why I have copies on my coffee, kitchen, and bedside table! -- Beth Kerr, group director of wellbeing for global schools group CognitaFollowing up on their incredibly successful book about the Teenage Brain, the authors have now turned their attention to slightly younger children and the critical issue of social communication in the family. Their aim is to lay down a road map, showing parents how to talk to their children, without either patronising them or scolding them. Do we really need to be told how to converse with preadolescent boys and girls? From the scientific evidence these experienced clinicians have gathered, the answer is a resounding 'yes'. Social communication skills are the bedrock of social and emotional development. If we don't learn to listen to others, and respond appropriately, mutually satisfying social relationships will forever elude us. Those skills should have their foundations laid down in early childhood. All parents and children would benefit from reading this 'how to' guide together -- David Skuse, professor of developmental neuropsychiatry, University College London'I thought it was going to be a bit like homework .... but it was much fun-er... the conversations 'make me feel good about myself... and anyone can do them!' -- Alfie, aged 11'His answers made me smile' -- Sam Sanson (Alfie’s Mum)Have you ever wondered how you could improve the conversations you have with your child? If so, this is the resource for you (and your child!). Firmly based in sound scientific evidence, and informed by years of clinical psychology practice, but not coming across as such, this is an extremely readable guide, full of valuable tips for having successful conversations. These in turn will build better relationships. We are advised to grasp those moments when you least expect your child to express an idea or worry and "If you can, stop what you are doing, switch off your phone, sit down and listen". I would strongly recommend (if you can) stop what you are doing, switch off your phone and make time to read this absorbing book. -- Helen Bedford, professor of children’s health, co-director of education, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child HealthThis is a truly practical book full of imaginative ideas for intriguing conversations specifically designed to build parent-child relationships and foster good communication. The conversation topics have been carefully chosen to help children learn to talk about emotions safely and express opinions thoughtfully, and to help parents learn to listen and connect. It is full of useful prompts to guide parents away from monosyllabic cul-de-sacs so we can co-create authentic conversations jointly with our children. After just one of these conversations, you will understand your child a little better and build a relationship in which they feel more confident to open up. -- Anita Cleare, mother and author of The Work/Parent SwitchHow to Have Incredible Conversations with your Child stands out from any other parental book for its well thought out process to bring theory to practice. It's a treasure chest full of tools to get conversations started, but also directed towards meaningful exchanges with your children. The language is accessible, even if the terms introduced are not simple, and one feels encouraged to try their approach after the first chapters. I found the use of visuals particularly useful - these are not only a brilliant tool for kids to communicate but also for parents to remember frameworks and use them when the right moment happens. I'd recommend this book to any parent who is looking for research based, applicable ideas to connect with their children. -- Laia Collazos, mother of two girlsI'm a big fan of everything Jane and Bettina do, and this book is no exception. I love the authors' warm and encouraging advice for having better conversations and ultimately improving our relationships with our children. We put so much effort into improving our communication skills with our partners, friends and colleagues but the authors have encouraged us to prioritise improving our conversations with the young people in our life. Good conversations with our children? What a gift for everyone involved! -- Courtney Adamo, mother of 5 and founder of @babyccinokidsThis is the book that will tell you how to build the emotional health of your child and at the same time build the relationship between the two of you. It is practical, wise and fun. The authors draw upon their extensive experience as clinical child psychologists and their deep knowledge of the modern scientific study of child development. Woven into their practical guidance about how to have conversations with your child are memorable drawings and icons which help build your appreciation of what will be a satisfying and rewarding process. -- Peter Hill, professor and consultant in child and adolescent psychiatrySome books offer wonderful advice, but struggle to provide activities which take into account the needs of those who learn differently. You do not have to worry here, the visual representations of the topics being discussed helped my son (who is autistic) to make sense of our conversations. The guidance provided made it very manageable, and encouraged us to take small steps in our conversations - you may not complete the whole activity in one sitting, and that's okay. Not only does this book offer great conversation starters, it offers a space for you and your child to revisit a topic whenever the need arise...revisiting these activities, over time, will help me and my son to develop new skills. This is a great book and has lots to offer. If you are looking for a book which helps you to develop your child's self-awareness, developing their resiliency in the process, this is the book for you! -- Claire Prosser, mother of Seb and founder of Spectropolis'I liked talking about my feelings. I love staying at my nan's house but don't like leaving. My mum told me that it was okay to feel sad about it. She helped me to find things that would make me feel better.' -- Seb is autistic and is aged 9

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Book SynopsisAnger is a very difficult and often misunderstood emotion for children to experience. Facilitating the healthy management of this natural but challenging emotion is crucial for children's social, psychological, and emotional wellbeing and resilience. Based on over thirty years of expertise, Deborah Plummer provides varied and straightforward activities for teachers, parents, and therapists to healthily engage with children and help them manage anger. This activity book allows space to explore anger and varying degrees of emotion whilst also providing help on how to manage it, allowing children to have better and healthier emotional self-awareness.This book is one of a series based on the use of imagination (I), mindful play (MP) and creative thinking (CT) to enhance social, psychological and emotional wellbeing and resilience in children. The accompanying ebook Using Imagination, Mindful Play and Creative Thinking to Support Wellbeing and Resilience in Children describes the theory and approach behind how these activities can significantly influence children's perceptions of themselves and the world.Table of ContentsContentsI. Exploring angerII. Foundations for managing angerIII. Working togetherIV. Exploring emotions and degrees of emotionV. Exploring strategies for emotion regulation VI. Causes and consequencesVII. Recognising achievements and celebrating

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Book SynopsisFriendships and community are very important for the healthy social, psychological, and emotional development of young children. In this fun and accessible activity book, Deborah Plummer deploys over thirty years of expertise for parents, teachers, and therapists to facilitate healthy friendships between children. This activity book explores concepts around child friendships, community, and being part of a group whilst also including sections on cooperation, negotiation, and conflict resolution.This book is one of a series based on the use of imagination (I), mindful play (MP) and creative thinking (CT) to enhance social, psychological and emotional wellbeing and resilience in children. The accompanying ebook Using Imagination, Mindful Play and Creative Thinking to Support Wellbeing and Resilience in Children describes the theory and approach behind how these activities can significantly influence children's perceptions of themselves and the world.Trade ReviewA fantastic resource that will help young children to grow morally, socially and spiritually through simple and enjoyable group games. The 'Talk About' sections and Activity Sheets are a powerful and adaptable learning tool, helping youngsters to reflect on themselves and their impact on others after each game. I'd recommend this for schools, community groups and clubs. -- Debby Elley, co-founder of AuKids parenting magazine, author of 15 Things They Forgot to Tell You About Autism and co-author of The Ice-Cream Sundae Guide to Autism and Championing Your Autistic Teen at Secondary SchoolTable of ContentsAcknowledgementsIntroductionI. Exploring concepts of friendship and community: a mindful play perspectiveII. IMPACT essentials for managing friendshipsIII. Being part of a groupIV. Understanding friendshipsV. Cooperation and negotiation; conflict management skillsVI. Celebrating togetherVII. Activity sheets

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Book SynopsisLearning how to communicate effectively and healthily is an important skill for every child to learn. This practical and fun activity booklet facilitates parents, teachers, and therapists to build children's communication skills. It explores how and why we communicate, effective listening, non-verbal communication, and how to stay on topic. Using over thirty years of experience, Deborah Plummer helps children understand that their interactions reflect their beliefs about themselves and others, and shows how to recognise and celebrate the unique and diverse ways in which we express who we are.This book is one of a series based on the use of imagination (I), mindful play (MP) and creative thinking (CT) to enhance social, psychological and emotional wellbeing and resilience in children. The accompanying ebook Using Imagination, Mindful Play and Creative Thinking to Support Wellbeing and Resilience in Children describes the theory and approach behind how these activities can significantly influence children's perceptions of themselves and the world.Trade ReviewThis book is essential in working with children due to their kinaesthetic learning style. Deborah Plummer has organised fun and creative activities that children will easily build communication skills from. This book is a must have for any child care professional's library! -- Shawn Amador, LCSW Founder of Social Theatre TM and Author of "Teaching Social Skills Through Sketch Comedy and Improv Games."Table of ContentsAcknowledgementsIntroductionI. Exploring communication skillsII. IMPACT essentials for building communication skillsIII. How and why we communicateIV. Effective listening and effective observationV. Understanding and using non-verbal communicationVI. Conversation skillsVII. Sequencing ideas, telling stories and staying on the topicVIII. Activity sheets

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Book SynopsisBuilding self-confidence in children is crucial for healthy psychological, social, and emotional development and wellbeing. This resourceful and fun activity booklet is an invaluable resource for parents, teachers, and therapists in helping to build children's self-confidence. It explores ideas around self-confidence and what that might mean as well as the essentials required to build it. This activity booklet also encourages self-knowledge and self-acceptance through the identification of each child's unique strengths and skills.This book is one of a series based on the use of imagination (I), mindful play (MP) and creative thinking (CT) to enhance social, psychological and emotional wellbeing and resilience in children. The accompanying ebook Using Imagination, Mindful Play and Creative Thinking to Support Wellbeing and Resilience in Children describes the theory and approach behind how these activities can significantly influence children's perceptions of themselves and the world.Trade ReviewThis book provides informative and practical advice for professionals and parents.The concepts behind the IMPACT approach to supporting self-confidence in children are linked to carefully crafted and creative activities that require minimal resources.Helping Children To Build Self-Confidence is a lifeline to those who are helping children find their place in the world. -- Julia Hamper MA(Oxon), Educational ConsultantTable of ContentsAcknowledgements; Introduction; I. Exploring Self-Confidence: a mindful play perspective; II. Phase One: IMPACT essentials for building self-confidence; III. Phase Two: Self-knowledge and self-acceptance; IV. Phase Three: What is confidence?; V. Phase Four: Making changes, facing challenges; VI. Activity sheets

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Book SynopsisSoothe your child’s anxiety and help them to develop emotional resilience for the future. The number of children suffering from anxiety is on the rise and most parents will readily admit that they feel ill prepared and lost for words when it comes to supporting their child’s emotional wellbeing. Author Alicia Eaton is a Harley Street practitioner with over 15 years’ experience of helping children to feel more confident and overcome feelings of anxiety. As she explains, nearly all children will sustain bumps and bruises on the outside of their body so it’s only natural that they’ll also pick up a few on the inside, in the form of anxiety and worries. Learning how to tackle these quickly, stops them from turning into much bigger problems later. Whether your child has a fear of dogs, spiders, dentists or injections, struggles with school, performing on stage or sleeping at night, this book will teach you the simple solutions every parent needs to know. When your child feels happy, you’ll feel happier too.Trade ReviewThis is an extremely informative gem of a book. If you have or know of anyone with sensitive/anxious children this would definitely be recommended. It's very easy to read with expert advice and exercises which appear to be an excellent support for the child. It also, gives advice and guidance for parents as to how to deal with certain sensitive or anxious situations. It really does make you aware of how children adapt and learn from their environment and how this may influence them. Would highly recommend this to all who are in need of this support. * NetGalley *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1 SECTION 1 – MAKING SENSE OF IT ALL 7 Chapter 1: Anxiety: what’s it all about? 9 Chapter 2: How your child’s mind works 17 SECTION 2 – STEPS TO SUCCESS 25 Chapter 3: Detox your environment 27 Chapter 4: Let’s talk 35 Chapter 5: Tools to help 53 SECTION 3 – FIRST AID TECHNIQUES AND STRATEGIES 59 Chapter 6: Let’s relax 61 Chapter 7: Psycho-sensory therapies 75 Chapter 8: Visualisation techniques 85 SECTION 4 – PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE 113 Chapter 9: General worries 115 Chapter 10: Stage fright, auditions, interviews 125 Chapter 11: Phobia: fear of dogs 131 Chapter 12: Fear of spiders and snakes 137 Chapter 13: Medical anxiety: doctors, injections and germs 143 Chapter 14: School refusal 149 Chapter 15: Bullying 157 Chapter 16: Exam stress 165 Chapter 17: Travel anxiety: fear of fl ying 171 Chapter 18: Sleep problems 177 A final note 183 Notes 185 Useful contact details 187 Also by Alicia Eaton 189 About the author 191

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Book SynopsisClinical psychologist Dr Anne Lane equips parents with the tools they need to nurture their child's emotional intelligence'. She helps parents understand their child's big - often overwhelming - emotions, and shows them how to teach their child the invaluable life skill of processing their feelings and not being afraid of them.

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Book Synopsis'Raising Resilience is fantastic' Sarah Jessica Parker'A must read' Eve Rodsky, New York Times bestselling author of Fair Play'The book that parents and caregivers have been waiting for' Lisa Damour, PhD, author of Untangled, Under Pressure and The Emotional Lives of TeenagersForeword by Amy SchumerRaising Resilience is a guide to help you develop your child's inner resources, so they can build strength even in times of crisis. Drawing on extensive clinical research with families, child development expert Tovah P. Klein offers Five Pillars of child resilience: - Create emotional safety- Teach emotional regulation- Offer limits alongside freedom- Connect with your child- Accept them as they are With common sense strategies rooted in research, Raising Resilience offers busy, stressed-out parents a guide that will help you establish a loving, stable and connected relationship to nurture your child from the inside out.

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Book SynopsisNeuroscientific evidence reveals that childcare centres are high stress environments which can disrupt the brain s emotional developmental circuitry during critical phases, impacting a child s later ability to flourish. At the same time evidence also reveals that some parenting practices are sub-optimal. Exploring what it is infants really need to grow emotionally well, represents a largely unexplored issue. If the state wants to be populated by flourishing individuals, then this topic must be addressed. Using an ethical framework to tease out the wide ranging, complex, and sometimes controversial issues that this dilemma presents, The Foundations of Flourishing and Our Responsibility to Infants follows a cross-disciplinary journey. The author pieces together pertinent issues in a synthesised critique of political, feminist, and moral philosophy, as well as psychological and neuroscientific findings, and offers some possible solutions. It will be of interest to researchers and teachers in areas including philosophy, psychology, education, social care, as well as educators and policy-makers in early childhood development.

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Book SynopsisDolores and Tristan Glumm are smart and full of good ideas. But when sadness shows up, they both struggle: Tristan retreats into avoidance and Dolores tries to control everything. This story and workbook with ACT activities helps children aged 8-12 to understand their sadness and teaches them how to reach out for help.

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Book SynopsisAn interactive workbook for parents and children from the author of the best-selling titles Don''t Worry, Be Happy: A Child''s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety and You''re a Star: A Child''s Guide to Self-EsteemDoes your child struggle to speak up for themselves?Do they tend to avoid new things and find change hard?Perhaps they negatively compare themselves to others and put themselves down?These could all be signs that your child is struggling with their self-esteem.This practical guide combines cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness methods with simple activities to help your child''s confidence soar. It''s aimed at children aged 7-11 because a lot happens in these years that can impact a child''s self-esteem, not just now but for years to come.Your child will be guided, with the help of Buzz the monster - a friendly and supportive character they can identify with - through fun and engaging activities which are

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Book SynopsisThis 6-book collection of activity books by best-selling author Dr Karen Treisman feature a children's story, a wealth of activities, expansion activities and a dedicated section for adults on how to best support children. Troubles and difficulties addressed include anxiety, grief, trauma, relaxation difficulties, low self-esteem and night terrors.

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Book SynopsisIn using this resourceful guide, therapists can develop a comprehensive understanding of how trauma impacts their young clients'' brains and sensory systems. Filled with therapeutic strategies and activities tailored to specific regions of the brain, professionals will be able to optimise brain rehabilitation and improve sensory processing abilities.The book includes a wide range of low-cost, budgeted activities that can be applied in a variety of settings, including juvenile justice, rehab, schools, homes, residential care, and foster homes, all of which include guidance on how to engage the wider community in order to maximise the potential for healing.Complete with the latest research on trauma and real-life case studies, this book provides an excellent foundation on understanding the science and applying it in practice. It is an indispensable resource for paediatric caregivers looking to support the children they''re working with in healing the impact of trauma.<

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Book SynopsisIn this honest and practical guide, autistic therapist Raelene Dundon explores and demystifies how neurodiversity affirming principles can be easily applied to therapeutic practice.Covering essential considerations for working with neurodivergent clients such as presuming competence, promoting autonomy and respecting communication styles, and providing advice on the best affirming approaches in therapy including how to accommodate sensory needs and encourage self-advocacy, Raelene provides easy-to-implement ways to make your practice inclusive and empowering for neurodivergent children and young people.The deficit model is out. It's time to become neurodiversity affirming.Trade ReviewAs an autistic ADHDer this book is written from both a personal and research-based perspective. Raelene has listened to 'the community', and her own experiences. Neurodiversity affirming practice is named, explained and choreographed in every chapter. This is a game changer and potentially equips Clinicians with the understanding they need for this and future generations. -- Dr. Wenn B. Lawson (PhD)

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Book SynopsisPlaying the dating game is often tricky: all the more so for individuals with Asperger's Syndrome. How do AS adolescents and their families cope with sexual feelings and behaviour? What help can be given if a man with AS oversteps the mark in expressing his sexuality? How do people with AS deal with intimacy and communication in sexual relationships? In this comprehensive and unique guide, Isabelle Hénault delivers practical information and advice on issues ranging from puberty and sexual development, gender identity disorders, couples' therapy to guidelines for sex education programs and maintaining sexual boundaries. This book will prove indispensable to parents, teachers, counsellors and individuals with AS themselves.Trade ReviewIn this comprehensive and unique guide, the author provides practical information and advice on issues ranging from puberty and sexual development, gender identity disorders couples' therapy to guidelines for sex education programs and maintaining sexual boundaries. This book will suit parents, teachers, counsellors and individuals with Asperger Syndrome. -- The SpectrumThe book covers a myriad of topics relevant to the adolescent with Asperger Syndrome, such as body image, self-esteem, masturbation and personal hygiene. Topics for adults include contraception, libido, responsibility and decision-making. Many topics are illustrated with case examples and specific strategies to try (such as a daily hygiene chart). -- Autism Victoria LibraryThis guide for people with AS and those who care for them presents practical information and advice on issues ranging from contraception to couple dynamics and gender identity. A number of worksheets and activities for the development of sociosexual skills are provided in the second half of the volume. The author is a psychologist specializing in sexual education and psychotherapy for people on the autism spectrum. -- Book NewsPeople who have AS are just as loving, caring and have a sex life just like anybody else. This book I am very impressed with. It is very rare. There is no research; sex education for AS needs research. -- Asperger UnitedTable of ContentsContents: Foreword Tony Attwood. Introduction. Part 1: Exploring sexuality and Asperger's Syndrome 1. Sexual development. 2. Inappropriate sexual behaviors: comprehension and intervention (with Dr Patrick Papazian). 3. Social skills. 4. Sexual diversity and gender identity. 5. Couples, intimacy and sexuality. 6. The sociosexual education programme. Part 2: Programme for the development of sociosexual skills. Appendix: The sexual profile of adults with Asperger's Syndrome: The need for support and intervention (with Tony Attwood). References. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis is the essential one-stop guide for parents of children and young people with tic disorders and the professionals who work with them. Drawing on current research and their own clinical experience, the authors provide up-to-date information on tic disorders and review the psychological, medical and alternative methods of managing symptoms. Written in clear, accessible language and with practical advice on how to support children with tics at home and in school, the book also includes essential information on the common co-occurring conditions and difficulties, such as ADHD, anxiety, OCD, autism, self-esteem issues and behavioural difficulties.Trade ReviewHere, in one volume, written in an accessible manner by people who have spent a huge amount of their professional lives working with those living with Tourette syndrome, is everything you need to know to gain a good working knowledge and understanding of TS. I am so pleased that such a volume exists and hope it will soon be on not only every worried parent's reading list, but also those of GPs and those charged with supporting someone with TS. -- From the Foreword by Suzanne Dobson, Chief Executive of Tourettes Action UKIt is not always easy to understand what it is like to live with Tourette syndrome. Comprehensive and accessible, this book sheds light on the key clinical features, management strategies and implications to day-to-day life. The authors have done a great job in putting together a highly useful resource for patients and their families, as well as professionals and teachers dealing with this condition in the school setting. -- Andrea E. Cavanna, MD PhD FRCP, Consultant in Behavioural NeurologyUttom Chowdhury and Tara Murphy have been committed for years to the care of children and families affected by Tourette syndrome and have trained many other clinicians. This book combines the medical literature with their experience of the condition, its challenges and its treatment, including in the home and classroom. It will be a valuable resource for both parents and professionals. -- Dr Jeremy Stern, Consultant Neurologist and Honorary Medical Director, Tourettes ActionThis accessible book from experienced clinicians helps families live with and accept tics. At the same time it provides guidance to enable parents to make the best use of professional advice and expect a high standard of assessment and treatment for their child. It acknowledges and explains the neurological basis of tics and Tourette's but avoids excessive preoccupation with the unusual symptoms. It also gently dismisses the myth that doctors have a full answer to tics and Tourette's. Instead the emphasis is on families learning to identify and access the help they need. Part of this process is realising that their child's difficulties may not be the tics themselves, but a related problem such as anxiety or learning difficulties. There are practical tips for families throughout - with the repeated message that 'knowledge is power'. -- Professor Isobel Heyman, Clinical Lead, National Tourette Syndrome Clinic, Great Ormond Street Hospital, LondonTable of ContentsForeword by Suzanne Dobson, Chief Executive of Tourette Action, UK. Part 1. Tics and Tourette Syndrome. 1.1. What are Tic Disorders? 1.2. Signs and Symptoms. 1.3. Causes of Tic Disorders. Part 2. Management. 2.1. Working with Schools. 2.2. Psychological Management. 2.3. Medication. 2.4. Neurosurgery. 2.5. Less Well Validated Treatments. Part 3. Co-occurring Features and Conditions. 3.1. ADHD. 3.2. OCD. 3.3. Depression. 3.4. Anxiety. 3.5. ASD. 3.6. Specific Learning Difficulties. 3.7. Sleep. 3.8. Anger. Part 4. Parenting and Family Life. 4.1. Adjusting to the Diagnosis. 4.2. Dealing with Behavioural Problems. 4.3. Improving your Child's Self Esteem. Appendix I. Glossary. Appendix II. Useful resources and websites. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisChild Development for Child Care and Protection Workers is a classic text for students and practitioners in the child care and protection field which summarises important current thinking on child development and applies it directly to practice.The book covers key issues such as resilience and vulnerability and the impact of protective or adverse environments. Different stages of development (infancy, school age and adolescence) are discussed, and attachment theory is used to offer insights into the impact of abuse and neglect on development. A key feature is the inclusion of case studies and activities to allow the reader to improve their understanding and reflect on good practice. This second edition is fully updated to reflect the new policy context and multi-disciplinary practice, and contains updated practice examples to take into account contemporary issues affecting children and young people.This book encourages practitioners to consider each child as an individual with unique circumstances, and links theory and practice in an imaginative and sympathetic way. It will be essential reading for all child care and protection workers.Trade ReviewPraise for the first edition:'Child Development for Child Care and Protection Workers offers a good solid account of child development rooted in attachment theory - the current hot topic in childcare social work.' -- Times Higher Education SupplementWhat a refreshing change to read a text on child development which is child-focused and embedded in an appropriate theoretical background... The bibliography is extensive and appropriate, and throughout there are suggested activities for the students to investigate. I found the activities to be thought-provoking, challenging and an excellent guide to a fully focused assessment of children. The child-focused nature of the text shines throughout... It is to be hoped that this text is used widely, and that the next generation of child protection workers has the understanding and the knowledge to enable well-informed, child-focused decision making in child protection. -- Child Abuse ReviewPraise for the second edition:'The inclusion of 'hints for answers' is a useful tool for relating theory to practice. 'Key messages' at the end of each chapter are helpful, as they allow the preceding chapter to be successfully summarised.Another positive feature of this book is that the layout enables the reader either to identify particular chapters relevant to their practice and read them in isolation or make sense of them in the wider context of the book. The text should also be praised for recognising the importance of considering each child as an individual, and taking wider environmental factors and the impact they have, into consideration. I would recommend this book to students and practitioners working in areas of child care and protection, as it is easy to read, and can be applied to the individual's own practice.' -- Pracice: Social Work in ActionThe continuing strength of this text is that it synthesises knowledge of child development with the daily realities for child care practitioners. It is most definitely a book that is meant not just to be read but to be applied and can, in my opinion, help to reinvigorate the "drained" practitioner. -- Wiley Online LibraryI think this book is an extremely useful resource for social workers and would be of particular value to foster carers and other professionals such as teachers and health professionals. It is above alla book that equips professionals with rich theoretical knowledge which encourages us all to actively contribute to promoting resilience and protective factors in children and young people. -- Seen and Heard... it really would be a shame to miss this book's contents... To pluck one notable example of the useful material on offer, I would draw your attention to page 106 in the Protective Factors and Adversity chapter as somewhere to go if you really need to consider ''what constitutes risk and harm?'' This section helps the reader to really consider interpreting, assessing and managing those two concepts, and, very importantly, managing them in some very sensitive family situations. This chapter explains succinctly what to look at and why. I can't say more - it's a definite must have - my copy is going nowhere. -- PSW- Professional Social Work, Carlyn Taylore-Score, Family Court Advisor, CAFCASS Bolton[The authors] have fashioned a book that is informed and informative, theoretically wise and practically useful. Readers will value Child Development for Child Care and Protection Workers for the wisdom that it brings and the guidance that it offers. And armed with the knowledge so neatly wrapped up in the pages of this very sensible book, the reflective practitioner will be well placed to make young lives that much better. -- From the Foreword by Professor David Howe, Professor of Social Work, University of East Anglia, UKThe second edition of this highly regarded book is most welcome. The chapters, written by experts in the field, will assist those working with children and young people to understand key developmental processes. The practical approach used throughout this book will also ensure practitioners are well equipped to undertake child-centred assessments and identify appropriate interventions. -- Professor Jan Horwath, Professor of Child Welfare, University of Sheffield, UKTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Foreword. David Howe, University of East Anglia, UK. 1. Framework for understanding child development. 2. Developing relationships. 3. Parenting and care-giving. 4. Resilience and vulnerability. 5. Protective factors and adversity. 6. Early years. 7. School years. 8. Adolescence. 9. Stress and support in the lives of children facing adversity. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisA diagnosis of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be confusing and overwhelming for all involved, and it can be difficult for parents to know how best to approach the subject with their child. This easy-to-use interactive workbook gives parents the help they need to explain ASDs to their child and provide practical and emotional support following diagnosis.Parents are invited to work through each chapter with their child as they grow older and go through adolescence, encouraging them to talk through how the ASD affects each area of their life, from making friends to problem-solving to planning a career. The information and advice is presented in a clear and positive way to help both parent and child understand more about what the diagnosis means for them. As the workbook is completed an invaluable record of development will be created for parent and child to look back on together.This hands-on workbook is an essential resource for parents and carers looking for guidance on explaining ASDs from diagnosis onwards to children aged 10 and up.Trade Review"The ASD Workbook: Understanding Your Autism Spectrum Disorder" uses an interactive workbook format to help parents explain ASD to children. It provides a fine resource that is easy to use for both parents and kids, and provides explanations, examples and worksheets in such a manner that many a medical professional will want to use this ASD workbook to teach newcomers the basics. A fine pick for parenting and medical collections alike! -- The Midwest Book ReviewTable of ContentsAbout the Author. Preface for Parents and Carers. Why this book was written. Aims of this book. Who is this book for? When to use this book. How to use this book. Introducing ASDs: Checklist. 1. Introduction. Learning about autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). 2. What is an ASD? What does the diagnosis mean? Why have I got this diagnosis? What to do next. 3. Understanding Your Differences. People with an ASD are different. People with an ASD sometimes have problems. Understanding more about an ASD - the difficulties and the good things. Liking systems, patterns or routines. Social skills. Communication. Sensory sensitivity. What to do next. 4. People You Live With. Why is home life important? Problems you might have in a family. Difficulties that your family might have with your ASD. What to do next. 5. Friendships and Relationships. Why is it a good idea to make friends? What is friendship? How to make friends. How to build up a friendship. What is a boyfriend or girlfriend. Meeting the right boyfriend or girlfriend. What to do next. 6. Strengths and Interests. What are strengths and interests? Why is it important to recognise your strengths and interests? How are your strengths and interests different to those of people without an ASD? Why might your strengths and interests cause difficulties? What to do next. 7. School. Why do people have to go to school? Why school may sometimes be a challenge for you if you have an ASD. Thinking about school. What you can do to improve what school is like for you. How you can plan your career. Job applications. What to do next. 8. Getting Help. What is self-help? Why do you need to develop ways to help yourself? What might you need help with? Self-help plan. Some things to think about. What to do next. 9. Further Information. Recommended reading for people with an ASD. Recommended reading for parents and carers. Websites for parents and carers. 10. Glossary. Appendix: Progress Chart.

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Book SynopsisMeet Ellie – a young girl with epilepsy. Ellie invites readers to learn about epilepsy from her perspective. She introduces us to some friends who help present the varying forms of epilepsy. Ellie and her friends help children to understand the obstacles that they face by telling them what it feels like to have epilepsy, how it affects them physically and emotionally, how epilepsy can be treated and how the condition is often misunderstood by people who do not know the facts.This illustrated book is full of useful information and will be an ideal introduction for children from the age of 7. It will also help parents, friends, and professionals to make sense of the condition in its varying forms and will be an excellent starting point for family and classroom discussions.Trade ReviewIt explains a little about the causes, how it affects those who suffer from it and ways in which to help and e understanding of pupils with epilepsy... This book is a useful introduction to living with epilepsy for children from the age of seven and above and will provide support for those recently diagnosed with epilepsy and provide understanding for their friends and families. It would also make a worthwhile preamble to classroom awareness sessions and discussions. -- SNIPThis book is recommended as a starting point especially useful for young people from the age of seven upwards as a sound introduction to a difficult subject. -- The SL (School Librarian)This book is useful for those who have been newly diagnosed with epilepsy as well as their parents, friends andsiblings... The "matter of fact" tone makes it a great starting point in reassuring children who are anxious about their condition and will be useful in encouraging them to discuss how their seizures affect them personally and what helps them cope.' -- Children & Young People NowThis is a truly excellent introduction for children newly diagnosed with epilepsy and will be extremely useful for their parents and teachers too. -- Healthy Books... a simple, straightforward book containing the basic information that teachers need... As well as a teacher's guide, this short book, with its large print and simple pictures, is ideal for putting in the library for children to read themselves, promoting confidence for those with epilepsy, and greater understanding among their peers. -- Special MagazineThis helpful book is a brief, straightforward account of the varying forms of epilepsy and it would make a good introduction to the subject for children from the age of around seven... The book would also b e a very useful introduction for adults who are new to the subject. -- HEAS - Home Education Advisory Service, BulletinThe illustrations helped me visualise and connect with the children, and the guidance on what to do during a seizure and putting someone in the recovery position is invaluable. -- Netbuddy.co.ukCan I tell you about Epilepsy? is a fantastic book, written in such a way that children of all ages can understand what epilepsy is. It helps young people make sense of the different types of epilepsy and how they can affect people's lives on a daily basis. The book also explains first aid procedures in such a simple way that it is easy to follow and understand. The book will undoubtedly help children who have recently been diagnosed with epilepsy come to terms with what it means and to better understand their condition. I would highly recommend this book to teachers, parents and children alike, simply a great book. -- Andy Morley, founder of UKEpilepsy.comTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. 1. Introducing Ellie and friends who have Epilepsy. 2. What is Epilepsy? 3. Absence seizures. 4. Focal (Partial) seizures. 5. Tonic Clonic seizures and basic first aid for seizures. 6. Medication and treatments. 7. We are all unique. 8. How teachers can help. Recommended reading, websites and organisations. Blank for your notes.

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Book SynopsisMeet Ben - a young boy with ADHD. Ben invites readers to learn about ADHD from his perspective. He helps children understand what it means to have ADHD and describes what it is and how it feels. Ben explains how he was diagnosed and what he has learnt about ways to relieve his ADHD symptoms, and how friends and adults can help at home and school. This illustrated book is full of useful information and will be an ideal introduction for young people, aged 7 upwards, as well as parents, friends, teachers and professionals working with children with ADHD. It is also an excellent starting point for family and classroom discussions.Trade ReviewBecause we are getting Ben's point of view about how he feels about his ADHD and how it affects others, we get real insight into what this condition must be like to those with it... This book could be of real importance of children with ADHD, giving them the knowledge about themselves that can be so important when dealing with a serious condition and also helping them to understand that they are not alone. It will also be important to families, teachers and friends because they will find hints and practices to enable them to support the child. An important book all round. -- Healthy BooksThis book is a perfect choice for every child diagnosed with ADHD and lends a voice to children with ADHD who are unable to express themselves. Written in an engaging and conversational style, the book provides a window for parents and professionals to see how children with ADHD feel rather than how other's perceive them. I highly recommend this book for children and parents, as well as professionals working with children who have ADHD. -- Dr Inyang Takon, Consultant Paediatrician, Queen Elizabeth II Hospital, HertfordshireTable of Contents1.Introducing Ben who has ADHD. 2. What is it like to have ADHD?. 3. Attention problems. 4. Hyperactivity. 5. Talking a lot. 6. Rushing through chores and schoolwork. 7. Being impatient and impulsive. 8. Safety at the roadside. 9. Anger outbursts. 10. Daydreaming. 11. Forgetting things. 12. Specialist help for people with ADHD. 13. What is ADHD?. 14. What causes ADHD?. 15. ADHD and other conditions. 16. How medication can help. 17. Supporting people with ADHD. 18. How friends can help. 19. How parents can help. 20. How teachers can help. Recommended reading and resources.

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Book SynopsisUnderstanding Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a useful introduction to the most common non-genetic learning disability, which is caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy.Written by two FASD experts, it describes how alcohol can harm the foetus and disrupt development, and explains how FASD affects individuals at different stages of their lives. With the aid of simple, illustrative diagrams, photographs and charts, it shows how you can identify FASD and gives guidance on how mothers at risk can be helped. It also provides advice for parents or carers on how children, young people and adults with FASD can be best supported. Accessible and informative, this is the essential guide to FASD for social workers, family placement teams, child protection workers, foster carers, adoptive parents, midwives and teachers.Trade ReviewThis book calls for appropriate assessments and interventions, and a collaborative approach to supporting the complex needs of individuals with FASD. This message is one that needs to be heard far and wide! Written in easy to understand language, this informative book is a "must" for anyone caring for or working in the field of FASD - the tools and strategies for success cover a wealth of practical and helpful tips. -- Bernadette Howell, adoptive mother of two sons diagnosed with FASDTable of ContentsIntroduction. Ch1: What is FASD? Ch2: FASD Recognition, Screening and Diagnosis. Ch3: FASD Across the Lifespan. CH4: FASD, Tools and Strategies for Success. Part Five: FASD, Future Policy and Practice. Conclusion. References. Appendices. Additional Resources.

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Book SynopsisMeet Max - a boy with Tourette syndrome (TS). Max invites readers to learn about Tourette's from his perspective, helping them to understand what tics and triggers are and what it feels like to have TS. He explains how living with TS can sometimes be difficult, and how people around him can help him to feel happy and accepted. This illustrated book is ideal for young people aged 7 upwards, as well as parents, friends, teachers and other professionals working with children with TS. It is also an excellent starting point for family and classroom discussions.Trade ReviewAs an adult who knows comparatively little about Tourette syndrome and has never taught a child with a diagnosis of TS, I found this book extremely useful and informative. I have no hesitation in recommending it. A copy should be in every staffroom library and another in every primary school library for children to read. -- Jill Bennett * Red Reading Hub blog *This book fills a huge gap in the market as many parents and teachers tell us that there is nothing to help them talk to younger children about their Tourette Syndrome. TS is a complex, difficult to understand condition which can baffle teachers and families and indeed those who actually have TS.I was particularly taken by the sentence where Max says that his parents and teachers 'were on the same page'. This is the absolute key to making school successful and of course the 'page' that they were on was making school not only an excellent experience but one in which Max can reach his full potential without being defined by TS. We will certainly be adding it to our reading list. -- Suzanne Dobson, Chief Executive, Tourettes ActionThis book is a perfect introduction to Tourette syndrome for parents and children. It presents all the facts accurately but in an easy-to-read and engaging style. It would be invaluable as a resource for teachers and other children at primary schools who have a child with Tourette syndrome in their class. I will definitely recommend this book to teachers. -- Jane Fowlie, Research and Liaison Nurse for Tourette syndrome Projects, School of Psychology, University of NottinghamCan I tell you about Tourette Syndrome? is an engaging and practical read for children with Tourette syndrome, their families, friends, teachers and health professionals. The book will help develop a better awareness of the journey that many children with Tourette syndrome experience and an understanding of how those that care for them can support this process. -- Dr Tara Murphy, Consultant Clinical and Paediatric Neuropsychologist, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, LondonBy adopting a child's perspective, the author helps children, parents and teachers to understand what it means to live with Tourette syndrome. -- Professor Andrea E. Cavanna MD PhD, Consultant in Behavioural Neurology, BSMHFT, BirminghamI would like to see a copy of this book in the library of every school in the UK. It will help teachers to gain a greater understanding, and Max's story would be ideal for peer group awareness in schools. -- From the foreword by Julie Collier, Groups Manager, Tourettes ActionTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Foreword by Julie Collier, Groups Manager, Tourettes Action. Introduction. 1. Introducing Max who has Tourette syndrome (TS). 2. Tics and Tourette's. 3. Playing with other children. 4. TS at home. 5. TS at school. 6. My fidget toy. 7. Finding out I have TS. 8. Our self-help group. 9. What makes me Tic? Triggers and treatments. 10. Dogs and other things. 11. Living with Tourette's; Do's and don'ts. 12. Facts about TS. 13. How teachers can help. 14. How schools can help. 15. Further information for parents and professionals. Recommended reading, organisations and websites.

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Book SynopsisThis easy-to-use tool provides an observation checklist which enables staff to identify behavioural patterns in children with social and emotional difficulties, analyse the underlying emotional difficulties and establish what kind of help and support the children need. Behavioural responses are categorised within clearly outlined topics, including:* behaviour and relationship with peers* attachment behaviours* emotional state in the classroom* attitude to attendance Checklists and diagrams identify different 'styles' of relating, to help school staff to respond appropriately to the individual needs of each child. A range of handouts include activities designed to provide emotional support, to focus and regulate behaviour and enable the child to develop important social and emotional skills.Suitable for use with children aged 11+, this tool will be an invaluable resource for teachers, teaching assistants, learning support staff, school counsellors and educational psychologists.Trade ReviewThis wonderful book focuses on the use of a comprehensive observation checklist for these students. However it provides so much more! It includes the development of well-informed action plans based on the detailed information obtained by the checklist as well as a thorough understanding of the complex difficulties shown by these adolescents. It also helps us to understand the services and programs needed by them, along with the characteristics of the adults and schools which these youth desperately need if they are to successfully proceed with their social, emotional, and behavioral development. This will serve as an important resource for educators even if they were never to use the checklist, though I would strongly encourage them to include it in their knowledgeable efforts to best meet the needs of these students. Observing Adolescents with Attachment Difficulties in Educational Settings is an excellent addition to the earlier works and checklists by Golding and colleagues for preschool and school age children. -- Daniel Hughes Ph.D., Psychologist, Author of Attachment-Focused Family Therapy Workbook and Brain-Based Parenting, and Founder of Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP), USAThe needs of vulnerable children in education are becoming much more prevalent and more resources are needed to assist educators as they support these children. This observational tool is a necessity for any secondary school looking to build strong children; both physically, emotionally, socially and academically. As a trainer in this field and a parent of a child with an avoidant attachment style I am encouraged to see the blight of these under the radar young people being addressed, as well as the other styles of attachment. This is a must-have resource for anyone looking to increase the chances for secondary school children in our educational system. -- Nicola Marshall, Attachment Training Specialist and Author of The Teacher's Introduction to AttachmentThis is a long awaited book and I am so glad that Kim and her team have invested their time, energy, and wisdom into producing it. It was well worth the wait... -- From the Foreword by Louise Michelle BomberTable of ContentsForeword. Acknowledgements. Introduction: About this Resource. 1. Child Development in the Early Years and Beyond. 2. Recognizing the Emotional Needs of Students in Educational Settings. 3. Understanding Emotional Needs Through Knowledge of Attachment Theory. 4. Introducing the Observation Checklist. 5. Detailed Guidance for Completing the Checklist Section by Section. 6. Worked Examples of the Observation Checklist. 7. Analysis of Information: Interpreting the Completed Checklist. 8. Worked Examples of Interpreting the Checklist and Support Plans. 9. Helping the Student with Attachment Difficulties in Educational Settings. 10. Helping the Student with Different Attachment Styles in Educational Settings. 11. Supporting the Emotional Needs of Students with Attachment Difficulties. 12. Supporting Students with Multiple Difficulties. Appendix 1: Observation Checklist. Appendix 2: Adolescent Development. Appendix 3: Attachment Theory and Educational Settings. Appendix 4: Supporting Adolescents in Educational settings. Appendix 5: Glossary. Appendix 6: Glossary for UK Education System. References. Further Reading and Useful Websites. Author Biographies.

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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 SynopsisIn this fully updated second edition, this book provides an insight into the challenges and benefits specific to gifted children with attention difficulties. Recognising the different kinds and levels of giftedness, it explains why certain children are gifted and how giftedness is manifested, with each chapter addressing the relevance of a specific topic for children with AD/HD and Asperger Syndrome. Lovecky guides parents and professionals through methods of diagnosis and advises on how best to nurture individual needs, positive behaviour and relationships at home and at school.Lovecky explores concepts such as asynchrony and the effects of such `uneven' development on children, using case studies to illustrate emotional, intellectual, creative and social development. She also highlights the inadequate measures currently in place to assist parents and teachers and goes on to clearly define what is required to understand and help these children so that their needs can be met more positively in the future. Different Minds, with its wealth of practical and background information, is essential reading for all those who live or work with gifted children with attention difficulties.Trade ReviewTwo decades after gifting us a comprehensive guide to understanding the different minds of gifted individuals with co-occurring profiles of ADHD and ASD, Dr. Lovecky, a pioneer in the field of dual exceptionalities, has once again given us the information, understanding, and tools needed to support and cultivate the growth and potential of unique humans with unique minds. -- Daniel B. Peters, Ph.D. Licensed Psychologist, Executive Director, Summit Center Author, Make Your Worrier a Warrior: A Guide to Conquering Your Child's Fears Co-Author, Bright, Complex Kids: Supporting Their Social and Emotional DevelopmentWritten by a true worldwide expert in the shared fields of giftedness, twice-exceptionality, and autism spectrum disorders, Dr. Lovecky has masterfully articulated what so many works before have missed on the topics of identifying understanding,,and meeting the needs of those who are truly different-minded. Within this work, Dr. Lovecky combines history and research with her own clinical experrise to give new insight into understanding to those who are still marginalized for thinkning differently. This book will undoubtedly become a reference source and guide for parents, educators, and clinicians alike. -- Marlo Payne Thurman

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Book SynopsisThe Autism Discussion Page blue book focuses on the core challenges associated with autism (cognitive, sensory, social, and emotional) and provides concise, accessible information and simple tools for supporting children with these vulnerabilities.Based on posts on the popular online community page and organised by subject for ease of reference, this book offers an excellent understanding of how children with autism process and experience the world and effective strategies for coping with the challenges.Trade ReviewMany of us count among the 56,000 who have benefitted from Bill Nason's advice from his Autism Discussion Page on Facebook. Now Bill has shared his accumulated insights into autism in a comprehensive manual that translates autism--for the neurotypical community of teachers, parents and service providers--but also for those of us looking to enhance our own self-awareness of the inner workings of autism strategies and techniques. If you only buy two books this year, make them the Autism Discussion Page green and blue books! -- Dena L. Gassner, MSW, Program Director of Center for Understanding, Board Member of GRASP, and Advisory Board Member of Autism Society of AmericaThese posts have helped me and my husband truly understand the sensory aspects of autism and how to help our son self-regulate, which has reduced his anxiety. The tips are practical and easy to implement. -- Amy Bonacorsi Zoque, parent of a child with autism (from the Autism Discussion Page on Facebook)Finding out about The Autism Discussion Page marked a turning point in my understanding of autism spectrum disorders and how to support those with ASD. Bill Nason's ability to present information clearly and succinctly, as well as provide concrete tips for what to do with that information, has been a lifesaver in working with teachers to establish appropriate educational plans. -- Erika Flesher, mental health therapist and parent of a child with autism (from the Autism Discussion Page on Facebook)Table of ContentsAcknowledgements. Introduction. Part 1. Acceptance and Understanding. 1.1. Acceptance and Understanding. Part 2. Cognitive Issues in Autism. 2.1. Cognitive Processing Differences. 2.2. Teaching Dynamic Thinking. 2.3. Executive Functioning. 2.4. Rigid/Inflexibility. Part 3. Sensory Issues in Autism! 3.1. Common Sensory Issues. 3.2. Sharing Different Sensory Worlds. 3.3. The World of Self Stimulation! Part 4. Social Struggles in Autism. 4.1. Why Don't I Fit In? 4.2. Teaching Relating Skills. 4.3. Peer Play and Community Inclusion. Part 5. The Emotional World on the Spectrum. 5.1. Identifying, Labelling and Controlling Emotions. 5.2. Shutdowns and Meltdowns! Part 6. Putting it all together. Where to go from here. Appendix. A. Fragile World on the Spectrum. B. Sensory Scale. C. Sensory Motor Regulatory Patterns. D. Engagement Profile. E. Deep Pressure Calming Techniques. F. Core Deficit Assessment. G. Comfort Zone Profile.

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