Disability: social aspects Books

Book SynopsisChallenging prejudice, stereotyping and judgemental behaviour, this book consists of forty discussion stories which reflect society and the problems young people face today. Aimed at promoting discussion and awareness, the author challenges young people to consider events and the part they themselves play in life, thus producing more responsible and independently thinking young adults. In particular, children with Asperger Syndrome or high-functioning autism often have difficulty in coming to grips with social situations, so that the stories in this volume should be especially useful for those working with such children.The stories are primarily intended for group work (although can be used on a one to one basis) and, since young people take more notice of what their peers have to say than adults, it provides an excellent forum for a multitude of opinions to be aired. No previous experience or knowledge of the topics is necessary and the book contains comprehensive guidance for professionals and parents. It is ideal for use in therapy sessions, schools, youth groups, and by parents.Trade ReviewThe stories are short and cover many relevant topics for young people, and the leader sheets do provide a good guide to the discussion and, in some cases, provide the leader with helpful facts; for example, the physical effects of solvent abuse. One of the strengths from a practitioner's point of view is the practical nature of the book and the wide range of issues that it tackles. It provides helpful information for the leader should questions in need of a factual answer arise, and also considers the many responses that young people bring to a discussion. -- Educational Psychology in PracticeThis book consists of 40 discussion stories for young people to help them challenge prejudice, stereotyping and judgemental behaviour. The index of subjects goes from Abortion through Depression and Panic Attacks to Video-nasties. -- The Teacher TrainerOne of the greatest problems parents or those that work with youngsters face is the ability to contend with societal and moral issues without appearing to lecture. Marianna Csoti's, Contentious Issues offers a sturdy platform from which to begin. The book cleverly introduces fictional but true-to-life events that deal with topics such as ethnicity, racism, sexism and stereotypes.Marianna Costi's book is effective. It is effective because it doesn't judge and we can reach a young adult without criticism and without imposing our views. Too often we dictate, too often we decide the viewpoints for our children and too often we force morality on them without explaining why. Again, this book is effective. Why? Because it gives young adults the greatest gift of all - it allows them their own point of view. -- MetapsychologyThis book is culturally sensitive and morally unprejudiced. It will be an invaluable resource for teachers, group leaders and parents, and will help young people to approach problems and consider options more thoughtfully and to seek help in the right places. -- Community CareTable of ContentsAbout the book. Leaders' Notes. INTRODUCTION TO SECTION ONE. Story 1. Joshua's Birthday Present. Story 2. Not so sweet revenge. Story3. Goodbye Shaun. Story 4. Extortion! Story 5. 'Atch out! Story 6. Science Test! Story 7. Hoi Ping's unhappy. Story 8. It happened one day. Story 9. Preeti's lost bracelet. Story 10. Just one last game. Story 11. A better class of people. Story 12. Slag! INTRODUCTION TO SECTION TWO. Story 13. We were only playing. Story 14. Chicken! Story 15. Honesty policy. Story 16. Painful puberty. Story 17. Nightmare. Story 18. I fell down the stairs. Story 19. I don't remember. Story 20. Joyrider. Story 21. I never have any nice clothes. Story 22. Shoplifter. Story 23. My Mum's not well. Story 24. I'm a person too. INTRODUCTION TO SECTION THREE. Story 25. No thanks, I'm not hungry. Story 26. I'm so tired. Story 27. Hands off! Story 28. He was my boyfriend! Story 29. SIDA Story 30. AD. Story 31. The party. Story 32. Tina's Decision. Story 33. No!! Story 34. To lead baggy? Story 35. Perspective. INTRODUCTION TO SECTION FOUR. Story 36. Next time? Story 37. Escape! Story 38. Marriage. Story 39. Trudy's baby. Story 40. The last straw. Appendix. Index.

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Book SynopsisA practical tool for all job developers, this workbook presents strategies based on real situations and includes example exercises throughout. It draws on Steve Leach's thirteen years' practical experience in supported employment and is based on the principle of developing a client-centred approach to job development. It emphasizes the central importance of self-determination - ensuring that the individual makes their own choices to determine their future career.This flexible guide shows ways in which a support strategy can be developed in partnership with both employee and employer. Chapters are included on approaching and researching employers, establishing and improving the relationship between employee and employer, and on current debates in supported employment.The workbook also includes practical materials such as vocational profile forms, job analysis forms and support review charts. A comprehensive guide to delivering a supported employment service, it will enable professionals to support people with disabilities in finding and sustaining real jobs in real communities.Table of ContentsPreface. Introduction. 1. Initial Contact. 2. The Vocational Profile. 3. Job Search and Marketing. 4. Job Analysis. 5. Support Review Process. 6. Progression to Unsupported Employment. Appendices. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisFor those who want to help somebody with Asperger Syndrome find and keep a satisfying job, this book is a vital tool. Gail Hawkins guides readers through the entire process of gaining employment, from building a supportive team, identifying and addressing workplace challenges, to securing an appropriate post. Including practical tips on topics such as finding potential employers and creating a dazzling CV, as well as sensitive advice on assessing when somebody is ready for work, and how, when and where to disclose a disability to an employer, Hawkins' well-tested approach aims to provide all the information needed for a fast, realistic, and successful path to fulfilling employment.Trade ReviewHaving counselled a few clients who had been diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome I was hoping that this book would help me in any future interactions with jobseekers and I am confident that it will. The book is incredibly methodical and detailed in its content, with each section full of explanations, strategies, examples and checklists, The strategies are proven by Gail's fifteen years as a professional in this field and her examples are from real case studies, which bring the chapters to life. The carefully laid out chapters cover the importance of work-readiness in the candidate and fears of a potential employer, right through career choice, job seeking strategies, discloser, starting work to the all important final chapter on keeping the job. -- Phoenix NewsletterHow to Find Work that Works for People with Asperger Syndrome is a comprehensive and practical book packed with information about, and suggestions for, strategies to enable people with Asperger Syndrome (AS) to be successful in the world of work. The book takes a very welcome positive and upbeat approach and you can feel it willing people with AS to succeed. I certainly recommend How to Find Work that Works for People with Asperger Syndrome to those in the helping professions who are likely to work with individuals of varying ability with AS, as well as employers who have staff with AS and those with AS who are seeking employment and their families. For professionals, I feel that the book is worth its money for Chapter 4 alone. This gives a clear descriptions of some of the characteristics of AS and a sensitive discussion of the issues that need to be thought about when considering employment. -- NewscheckTable of ContentsList of Figures. Introduction. Part I: The Players. 1. What You Should Know about Finding Work that Works for People with Asperger Syndrome. 2. The Employer. 3. The Job Coach. 4. The Candidate (The Employee with Asperger Syndrome). 5. Family. 6. Professionals, Teachers and Support Workers. Part II: The Foundation.7. The Four-Pillar Teaching Technique. 8. The Employment Toolbox. 9. The Big Picture (Assessing Employment Skills for People with Asperger Syndrome). 10.The Strategy Guide. Part III: The Dream. 11. The Career Direction Formula. 12.The Interview. 13. The Job Search. 14. Keeping the Job. Recommended Reading. Resources. Index.

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Book SynopsisFollowing the success of their many years' social skills work with children and adolescents with Asperger Syndrome and other moderate learning difficulties, Ursula Cornish and Fiona Ross have compiled a set of imaginative training sessions and workshops for teachers. Based on a multi-sensory cognitive-behavioural approach, the sessions cover pre- and post-intervention evaluation schedules, interview and observation tools, and specification of materials that can be used and adapted by teachers.With direct links to the four main stages of development at Key Stages 3 and 4 of the National Curriculum, especially PSHE (Personal Social and Health Education), the training sessions form an effective tool to help teenagers develop skills in social interaction, communication and conflict resolution and to build their confidence and self-esteem. The ten detailed session plans incorporate role play, discussion and rehearsal to equip participants with the ability to interpret other people's body language, control their own feelings, express views, ask for support and show concern for others.Educators, parents and carers of adolescents with Asperger Syndrome, general learning difficulties or other behavioural problems will welcome this book's practical examples and useful tips on how to set up and run social skills development groups.Trade Reviewa useful guide for teachers and group leaders which is flexible enough to be used in many different ways. -- Good Autism PracticeThe authors are clinical psychologist who have been working with adolescents with moderate learning difficulties in a special school for several years. The focus of their work was on developing Social Skills Training (SST) to enable the students to understand and manage social situations better so that they might be included in mainstream schools. -- Support for LearningThis book is based on the authors' (successful) work changing adolescents' behaviour. Primarily aimed at teachers setting up Social Skills Training sessions for 13-17 year olds (with references to KS3 and KS4 National Curriculum), it still has much to offer parents, especially those who home educate. Even if you don't want to complete the Social Skills checklist, it's a reminder of skills which medical professionals often ask about (eg: "Makes appropriate eye contact") and the Possible Questions for Parents could highlight areas to work on. The ten sessions of the training programme make up most of the book: starting with "Listening and Paying Attention", it goes through controlling feelings, body language, resolving conflict, recognizing strengths and more. -- Education OtherwiseThe book provides useful information on how to do a basic evaluation to the individual's strengths and weaknesses in the area of social skills. The course is split into 10 'lessons'. Topics have been linked closely with PSHE (Personal, Social and Health Education) at key stages 3 and 4 of the National Curriculum. A useful resource for parents of children where the school is willing to allocate time for a social skills group. -- PeachThis publication is aimed primarily at teaching staff, and links to the four main stages of development at Key Stage 3 and 4 of the national curriculum, especially PHSE. However, the training sessions and workshops are likely to interest social care staff, and parents or carers as well... the material is clearly and accessibly presented. -- Care &Health MagazineTable of ContentsPreface. Introduction. Part 1 - How to Start. Needs Analysis. Social Skills Checklist. Interviews. Observations. Sociograms. Part 2 - The Training Programme. Introduction: Planning the Sessions. Session 1. Listening and Paying Attention. Session 2. Listening and Turn-taking. Session 3. Monitoring Own Body Language and Reading Body Language in Others. Session 4. Recognising Own and Others' Strengths. Session 5. Learning to Say No to Unreasonable Demands and to Cope with Peer Pressure. Session 6. Recognizing and Describing Feelings. Session 7. Learning to Control Own Feelings. Session 8. Being Confident to Explain Own Views and to Ask for Support When Needed. Session 9. Recognizing and Learning to Resolve Conflict. Session 10. Showing Care and Concern for Others.

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Book SynopsisCollege life is particularly stressful for students with Asperger Syndrome (AS) and the resources that colleges provide for such students are often inadequate. This much needed guide provides information to help these students prepare successfully for the rites and rituals of studying, interact with staff and fellow students, cope with expectations and pressures, and understand their academic and domestic responsibilities. How will I cope with the workload? What do I do if I feel ill? How do I make friends and initiate relationships with the opposite sex? Drawing on first hand interviews with AS students and direct clinical experience, the authors address these and many other questions thoughtfully and thoroughly, making practical recommendations.Succeeding in College with Asperger Syndrome demystifies the range of college experiences for students with AS. It is a must for these students, their parents and counsellors alike, providing benefits that will continue throughout the college years and beyond.Trade ReviewThis text presents a very detailed guide for students to use as a resource while they attend college. The chapters are complete and cover topics that are useful and of interest to all young adults as they transition from the safety of their supportive home and school environment to the unfamiliar independence and responsibilities that are the expectations for a successful college life. -- Education ReviewThis is an extremely valuable guide for the AS individual embarking on a college journey. -- Focus on Autism and Other Developmental DisabilitiesInvaluable resource, providing realistic advice, encouragement and support. It is important to provide supports to individuals with AS; otherwise they may leave our campuses and never return. As an individual living with Asperger syndrome who has been through the college system, I highly recommend this book to students with Asperger, their families, and counsellors. -- Focus on Autism and Other Developmental DisabilitiesThe authors of Succeeding in College with Asperger's Syndrome have written a timely student guide that will probably become the book of first choice for students, their parents, clinicians and college staff. The distinguished authors use their extensive experiences of supporting undergraduate students with Asperger's syndrome and write in the style of an encouraging, wise and humorous college professor talking to the reader. -- Child and Adolescent Mental HealthGiven the paucity of literature about adults in college and in particular that written for those with Asperger syndrome (AS), this is a welcome addition to the already extensive Jessica Kingsley library. It has been written in a very informal, almost chatty, style for those who intend to start college in the near future and everyone (family and professionals) who will be helping these students along the way. The book is brimming over with ideas and suggestions for students, but many of its chapters would also be useful for those working with individuals with AS no matter what their age. -- Good Autism PracticeThis text presents a very detailed guide for students to use as a resource while they attend college. The chapters are complete and cover topics that are useful and of interest to all young adults as they transition from the safety of their supportive home and school environment to the unfamiliar independence and responsibilities that are the expectations for a successful college life... this text has much to offer in terms of useful information for post secondary students with Aspergers Syndrome. -- Education Book Reviews`This guide provides information to help these students prepare successfully for the rites and rituals of studying, interact with staff and fellow students, cope with expectations and pressures, and understand their domestic and academic responsibilities.' - Autism us'The book has a logical progression as it begins with a brief description about preparing for college, and then follows through to discuss what to expect from a college/university environment, including chapters on academic demands, communication and socialising with others, sex and sexuality, and managing stress and anxiety levels. The authors have a thorough understanding of Asperger syndrome, and every subject they tackle is explained clearly and honestly.' -- CommunicationStudents with Asperger Syndrome need an environment which is encouraging if they are to succeed. This book is immensely important for students and for the staff who are trying to make college an enjoyable and productive experience. -- Paul Shattock OBE, Director: Autism Research Unit, University of Sunderland; Chairman European Services for People with Autism, Hon Secretary: World Autism Organisation.Table of ContentsIntroduction. Acknowledgements. 1. Preparing for College: A Brief Preamble. 2. Welcome to the Rest of Your Life. 3. The College Environment for the Asperger Student. 4. Attending to Academic Demands with AS. 5. Working with Student Support Services. 6. Communication: Getting Along with Others. 7. Interacting with the Opposite Sex: Sex and Sexuality. 8. Managing Anxiety and Stress. 9. Establishing an AS Support Group. 10. Inspirational Thinkers and Scientists. 11. Life After College. Appendices. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisComing Out Asperger explores the complexity of diagnosis for Asperger Syndrome, the drawbacks and benefits of disclosing a diagnosis of a "hidden disability," and how this impinges on self-esteem. The contributors include some of the best-known and most exciting writers in the field of Asperger Syndrome (AS) today, and include individuals on the autism spectrum, parents and professionals. The broad range of the chapters, which draw on anecdotal, professional and research-based evidence, make this book a comprehensive and highly original consideration of the implications of an AS diagnosis.The ever-difficult question of who to tell and when once a diagnosis has been confirmed is discussed in great depth. Liane Holliday Willey and Stephen Shore examine the dynamics of disclosure, its risks and the possible effect on self-confidence. Jacqui Jackson looks at how a diagnosis impacts upon family life. Tony Attwood provides a clinician's view of diagnosing adults, and Lynne Moxon, Wendy Lawson, Dora Georgiou and Jane Meyerding discuss adult issues surrounding disclosure, including how to deal with relationships and sexuality, and disclosure in the workplace, as well as social and disability issues.A unique and fascinating insight into the important issue of diagnosis disclosure, this book is an essential guide for people with AS, parents, teachers, professionals and all those who have ever felt confused about revealing a personal issue.Trade ReviewWhether you are a person with AS, a parent, teacher or professional who is involved with a person diagnosed with AS, this book can offer support in dealing with issues surrounding disclosure. Issues covered throughout the book range from how you might tell your child about their diagnosis to issues surrounding relationships and sexuality for adults with AS. -- Autism MattersThis collection shares the stories of people with Asperger Syndrome and offers guidance on coping with the diagnosis and deciding whether to tell other people. The 18 chapters discuss the symptoms and diagnostic assessment of the disorder, boosting confidence in people with a monotropic disposition, telling peers at school, and the need to develop tolerance in society. -- Book NewsIt would be particularly useful for a wide range of professionals, including educationalists who are seeking detailed information about Asperger Syndrome and Autism, and parents would benefit form reading the book too. -- www.youthinmind.netTable of ContentsIntroduction Dinah Murray. 1.To Tell or not To Tell, That is the Aspie Question. Liane Holliday Willey. 2. Diagnosis in Adults. Tony Attwood. 3. Confidence, Self-Confidence and Social Confidence. Dinah Murray and Mike Lesser. 4. Psychiatry and Asperger Syndrome. Tom Berney. 5. Being Told or Being Told Off: Reciprocity at the Diagnostic Interview. Michelle Dawson. 6. Mental Health Issues Surrounding Diagnosis, Disclosure and Self-Confidence in the Context of Asperger Syndrome. David Andrews. 7. One That Got Away Dinah Murray. 8.`Why's it all so difficult?' Sharing the Diagnosis with the Young Person Philip Whitaker. 9. Telling Peers at School about AS - Thoughts on How and Why. Heta Pukki. 10. Disclosure at Secondary School. Penny Barratt. 11. The Conversation. Jennifer Overton. 12. Disclosure: Talking About What Makes Us Human. Stephen Shore. 13. Disclosure: A Parent's Perspective Jacqui Jackson. 14. Coming Out, Various. Wendy Lawson. 15. Diagnosis, Disclosure and Self-Confidence in Sexuality and Relationships. Lynne Moxon. 16. Diagnosis in Adulthood and Community Disclosure. Dora Georgiou. 17. Coming Out Autistic at Work. Jane Meyerding. 18. Disclosing to the Authorities. Dennis Debbaudt. Contributor biographies. Index.

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Book SynopsisSome children's 'difficulties' do not present in an obvious way, which makes diagnosis problematic, and access to help unforthcoming. This was the experience of Sandy Row, who, after a decade of misdiagnoses and unsatisfactory explanations for her children's struggle in mainstream school, realised that her children had special educational needs (SEN) and began her long quest for help from the SEN system.Row's testimony illustrates how the special educational needs system works and empowers other parents to demand help for their children who have special educational needs that require attention. This frank and practical book challenges the theoretical and often impenetrable established literature on SEN, and instead provides an accessible and effective resource for those needing advice and answers about their rights to services and help for their children.Trade ReviewEach chapter stands alone in this excellent self-help manual for parents of children with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Everything you need to know is here: What a Statement of SEN looks like, how you go about getting one, what a SEN Tribunal (SENDIST) is and how to go about appealing, useful contacts, extracts from letters and lots of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). -- Dyspraxia NewsShe offers clear advice and support in a way that readers will find personable, knowledgeable and digestible. She is better able than most to take parents through the system, having navigated it on behalf of four children. Parents and carers will empathise with the daily challenges, share in the worldly-wise humour and benefit practically from the case studies, basic legal and technical definitions, example letters and proformas, a special insight into adoption and a pervading can-do attitude'. -- CommunicationI thought this was an excellent book. With humour it guides a parent through the system while describing their own journey through it with their four adopted special needs children and pointing out the pitfalls they found. It was especially helpful as the age range of her children over the years means she could give a wide range of advice. It made me feel sad to read how much damage the fight caused the family but I could also relate to the feelings she shared and it confirmed why I had removed my special needs child from the system. -- Education OtherwiseThis fascinating book is a mine of information on procedures and pitfalls in gaining access to special educational needs provision. As a parent of a dyslexic child, I find it mirrors some of the difficulties which were experienced in the 1980's... If you are looking for a well-structured guide to the stages of statementing, interspersed with human stories, I recommend this book. -- Dyslexia Contact...an honest and unique book offering an effective, accessible and empowering tool for parents. Any parent facing the prospect of a tribunal needs to read this book from a practical and emotional point of view. For those parents just entering the world of SEN and the bureaucracy that goes with it, there's a couple really useful chapters, a jargon busting section and a step by step guide to what a statement actually looks like. It has to be the best book I've read this year on anything to do with autism. -- Autism MattersThis book is a valuable resource for parents who need advice and answers about their rights to services and help for their children with special educational needs (SEN). The author's account of her own experience of how the SEN system works should enable other parents to seek help for their children. The publication explains how you know whether your child has SEN, gives information about Statements of SEN, provides information for how to obtain a Statement of SEN, and gives details about the tribunal, SENDIST and appealing. In addition, there are a number of 'real life' stories and helpful sections including frequently asked questions and useful contacts. -- childRIGHT...this book will be a useful resource for many families whose adopted children do not fit and cannot cope within mainstream educational provision... Although this is a personal story, it is also a detailed practical guide dealing with such things as diagnosis, statementing and presenting a case to the SEN tribunal...The message of the book is ultimately a hopeful one both for parents struggling to find a way through the SEN maze, and for the children who blossom when they are in the right educational placement, receiving the right support. -- Adoption UKThere is lots of practical advice including clear, highlighted explanations of jargon, definitions, legal aspects of SEN provision and even sample letters, to help you find your way through the system. But, perhaps, most importantly, it is all from a parent's perspective and this could help to restore your faith in yourself and when you are having difficult times trying to ensure their needs are met. -- Association for Spina Bifida and HydrocephalusThe author writes in a very clear and conversational way and her book will prove invaluable to parents seeking to find their way around the special educational needs system - Sandy is helping them to learn by her advice'. -- RathboneHow you found the time and energy to write such a magnificent book I do not know. Absolutely wonderful and I shall be recommending it. -- William Seymour, Headteacher of St David's CollegeI love the Velvet Bulldozer and have recommended it to all my parents. I even leant my copy to another therapist so that she could see it and recommend it. -- Charlotte Wilson, Speech and Language Therapist(This) fantastically moving book (has made me) even more determined and committed to supporting youngsters with Asperger's to succeed and get all the support they so rightly deserve... it is a must for all the staff here to read. -- Support Worker at 'Jack's' Special Needs College who is also a mum of Asperger's son herself.Now, Sandy has written a book to help other parents struggling with the complexities of the special needs system. Sandy tells her own family's story: the mistakes they made, the misinformation they received and the battles they fought and includes a whole chapter of useful contacts and addresses she has built over the years. -- The OrganiserEssential reading for all parents with special needs children! -- SEN teacher and adoptive parent of children with physical and emotional difficultiesTable of ContentsAcknowledgments. Introduction: Why you need to read this book. 1. Starting out: Don't be daunted. 2. So how do you know when your child has special educational needs? 3. So what does a Statement of Special Educational Needs look like? 4. The Final Statement. 5. So how do you go about getting a Statement? 6. The tribunal, SENDIST and appealing. 7. Preparing for the second tribunal. 8. Alice's story. 9. Alex's story. 10. Richard's story. 11. More of Richard's story. 12. Tribunal II: The Mummy's Revenge! 13. Jack's story. 14. Frequently asked questions. 15. A bit about us. 16. Special needs children who are officially adults. 17. And in conclusion. Appendix: Useful contacts and other information. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisInformation technology (IT) has great potential to be an effective and empowering means of communication for people with communication difficulties. Getting IT explores how IT can help such people increase their independence, communicate in more direct ways and express themselves as part of society.Authors Dinah Murray and Ann Aspinall examine common problems faced by people with learning and communication difficulties - being judged on appearances, encountering impatience from communication partners, problems identifying and understanding key information and difficulties communicating decisions. They show how IT can help solve these problems: for example internet search tools for accessing information at home, typing and email as socially neutral, universally acceptable modes of expression, anonymous, non-judgmental internet chatrooms and discussion forums. Three central case studies illustrate how IT improved the lives of Kumar who is on the autism spectrum, Marie who has dementia and Irene who is almost completely nonverbal. The book also provides practical guidance on how to use common IT programs including Powerpoint and gives an overview of the technology available for people with specific difficulties. Useful resources and organisations are supplied at the end of the book.Getting IT shows the power of IT to help people with communication difficulties satisfy the universal human need to communicate. This book will inspire carers, teachers, psychologists, parents and other professionals to use IT with people with communication difficulties, and will expand the skills and knowledge of those who already do.Trade ReviewThis book outlines how the use of relatively simple information technology can enable people with major communication problems, actively to take part in and, in some cases, to lead decision - making processes affecting their own lives. The book presents case studies of a small number of people with extreme difficulties who had previously been the recipients of decisions based on assumed interpretations of their needs. It shows how they moved form almost passive acceptance of whatever choices were made for them to the stage where they were the instigators for the changes which they themselves wanted in their lives. -- British Journal of Special EducationAll those who work in facilities where there are disabled people, including the elderly, should read this book. It may help to challenge assumptions made about the value, experiences and needs of many clients attending day centres and similar institutions. Anyone who is in the caring profession will be inspired and motivated by this book. -- British Journal of Special EducationI would thoroughly recommend this book. -- British Journal of Special EducationFor the past five years I've been trying to inspire people to use information technology (IT) with people with dementia. Here is a book that does just that, but for a wider group of people with various communication problems. [The authors] ideas and practical tips could be a useful starting point for those working with people with dementia. As well as the inspiring narrative, this book has plenty of practical tips and examples that could be tried by people working with people with dementia. Useful appendices include hints and tips, lists of useful websites and other resources and 'help-sheets' with step-by-step guides to producing different effects in PowerPoint. -- Journal of Dementia CareInformation technology (IT) can help people with communication difficulties to better express themselves and connect with others. This resource for service providers offers practical ideas on turning technologies such as a PowerPoint into tools of empowerment and inclusion. -- Book NewsA study, by authors well-known in the field, of common problems encountered by people with learning disabilities in terms of communication, and a wide range of ideas and practical suggestions for how IT can be employed to resolve these. -- Current Awareness Service (BILD)How to use information technology to make voices heard is the essential theme of this book. This is not about using computers to escape from the world, it is about using them to connect with it. -- Introduction, Getting ITThe book's stated aim is to, 'inspire people to use Information Technology-IT with people in care and expand the skills and knowledge of those already doing so...The book would be relevant and useful for careres, teachers, other professionals and family members who work with people communication diffuculties and who have limited IT knowledge or confidence. -- Patoss BulletinI enjoyed reading this book. It is not your mind boggling IT book but tells the stories of three people with leaning disabilities who, with help, have used multi media to learn, participate in activities with others, make their own record of their interests and life events and improve their communication and decision making skills... inspiring and helpful -- PMLD LinkTable of ContentsIntroduction: Getting IT: the why and what of this book. 1. Inclusion in the 21st Century: the argument for ensuring access to IT. 2. Beginning to Take Control. 3. Telling Your Own Story. 4. Asking and Telling. 5. Connecting and Exploring. 6. Living and Learning. 7. Getting together. 8. A Year or so Later…. 9. Taking control of Time: a step by step guide to making an Interactive calendar. 10. Getting IT Right: tackling the technical aspects of using computer equipment. Appendix 1 Hints and Tips. Appendix 2 Relevant Websites. Appendix 3 Resources. Appendix 4 Helpsheets. References. Subject index. Author index.

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Book SynopsisThis guide for professionals working with students with autism spectrum conditions (ASCs) in further education meets the increasing demand for information and support on this subject.Christine Breakey provides useful guidelines and practical advice on teaching young adults successfully and confidently, emphasising the development of resources and practical skills for use specifically in FE colleges. The author covers all the key areas and offers strategies and solutions for communicating effectively, helping students to manage transition, and understanding and minimising the causes of ASC behaviours as well as teaching social skills and ASC self-awareness.The Autism Spectrum and Further Education will be a vital resource for professionals in FE institutions who have to meet the needs of young adults with ASCs.Trade ReviewChristine Breakey provides useful guidelines and practical advice on teaching young adults successfully and confidently, emphasizing the development of resources and practical skills for use specifically in FE colleges. The author covers all the key areas and offers strategies and solutions for communicating effectively, helping students to manage transition, and understanding and minimising the cause of ASC behaviours as well as teaching social skills and ASC self-awareness. The Autism Spectrum and Further Education will be a vital resource for professionals in FR institutions who have to meet the needs of young adults with ASCs. -- Link, Autism-EuropeThis book will be invaluable to anyone who works with autistic people in mainstream high schools, colleges, universities and in the workplace. Yes I do mean autistic people. Christine Breakey uses the term that many autistic people themselves want used. Their autism is an integral part of their being, not a bolt-on, and must be viewed as such this book is a must. One can hear the author's sensible, calm voice coming through clearly and I found it very inspiring. -- Good Autism PracticeTable of ContentsPreface. Introduction. 1. Breaking Down Barriers. 2. Which Approach? Ideology, Theory and Practice. 3. Developing an Inclusive Specialist Team. 4. Maintaining an Effective Specialist Team. 5. Staff Training. 6. `Autistic Thinking' and the Need for Adjustments. 7. The `Hidden Curriculum'. 8. Individual Accounts. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis book tells the stories of nine disabled leaders who, by force of personality and concrete achievement, have made us think differently about disability. Whatever direction they have come from, they share a common will to change society so that disabled people get a fair deal. There are compelling biographies of:· Sir Bert Massie: public servant· Lord (Jack) Ashley: Labour politician· Rachel Hurst: activist and campaigner· Tom Shakespeare: academic· Phil Friend: entrepreneur and business consultant· Peter White: broadcaster· Mat Fraser: actor, musician and performer· Andrew Lee: activist and campaigner· Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson: Paralympic champion Defying Disability is based on extensive interviews with the subjects and the people who know them. It marks their similarities and differences, the forces that drove them to achieve, the impact they have had on policies and practice, and how the modern history of disability in the UK has been played out in their lives. Defying Disability is not just a good read; it will inform professionals in the field, students in disability studies, disabled people, their families and carers, and everyone interested in disability politics and policies.Trade ReviewThere are a lot of acronyms in this book but don't be put off - this is not a dry and dusty academic volume. The actions and opinions of these outspoken people will challenge your perceptions of disability and achievement, and will ultimately enable you to form your own opinion on where you stand in the disability debate. -- Link (Assoc for Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalis)If you feel you need a nudge or even a mighty kick to get more politically active in the disability movement, read this. The nine men and women interviewed in the book are giants in the disability world, dazzling in their achievements, and demonstrate how we need people who believe in what they are doing in the face of criticism and are bolshy or tenacious enough to push on with it. -- One in Seven (RNID)Based on extensive interviews with the subjects and the people who know them, the new book Defying Disability tells the stories of nine disabled leaders who, by force of personality and concrete achievement, have mad us think differently about disability. Labour politician Lord Jack Ashley and Paralympic champian Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson are two of the nine leaders featured. Whatever direction they have come from, they share a common will to change society so that disabled people get a fair deal. -- MobiliseThis is an important insight into lives of nine brave people, who have, whatever their background fought for themselves and others; and in the case of some changed the lawand our way of seeing others. This book should be read by all. -- Internet Law Book ReviewsThis is an engaging and slightly edgy read by the former and founding editor of Disability Now... Written in a style that offers at the same time factual biography and personal narrative, this book will be of great interest to a wide audience. -- Disability NowA major contribution to our understanding of disability politics. -- The National Information ForumThis important book provides a fascinating insight into the achievements of nine disabled leaders and the development of British disability politics and practice over the past 40 years. The leaders profiled reveal both a range of approaches to tackling disabled people's exclusion, and differences in personal attitudes towards impairment and disability politics itself. In doing so, Defying Disabilty provides a more accurate reflection of the diversity of disability than some traditional disability texts. -- Claire Tregaskis, disability consultantThis book provides a fascinating insight into the lives of nine people who overcame the potential disadvantage of disability to achieve recognition, change and national acclaim. The story of motivation and unstoppable determination reflected by the lives of each of these disabled leaders is inspiring. The book is admirable in describing the power of the human spirit when not accepting limitations imposed by others, to strive beyond possible expectations. It paves the way forward in recognizing the rights and abilities of all disabled people. -- Peter Burke, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Social Sciences, Hull UniversityTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Introduction. Chapter 1. Bert Massie: Public Servant. Chapter 2. Jack Ashley: Politician. Chapter 3. Rachel Hurst: Activist/Campaigner. Chapter 4. Tom Shakespeare: Academic. Chapter 5. Phil Friend: Entrepreneur. Chapter 6. Peter White: Broadcaster. Chapter 7. Mat Fraser: Actor/Performer. Chapter 8. Andrew Lee: Activist/Campaigner. Chapter 9. Tanni Grey-Thompson: Athlete. Chapter 10. Different Lives, Common Purpose.

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Book SynopsisDisability and Child Sexual Abuse examines the ways in which society marginalises, institutionalises and places disabled children in situations of unacceptable risk, and how - as evidenced in the survivors' narratives - patterns of service delivery can contribute to the problem. Based on the accounts of seven disabled individuals who were sexually abused in childhood, the book highlights a wide range of pertinent issues. Through case vignettes and empirical research, the authors ask practitioners to scrutinise their current professional practice, exploring participants' experiences of hospitalisation, education systems and local authorities. They consider the issue of who abuses and why, and highlight issues relating to the complexities involved in revisiting past experiences and confronting unwarranted and unwanted feelings of responsibility. The difficulty of recounting the abuse narrative is also examined within the research context.This book will be relevant for professionals and students in the social, health and education services, such as social workers, teachers and counsellors. It will also offer insights for those seeking a less disablist society, including disabled people themselves.Trade ReviewThis book places powerful individual narratives firmly at its centre, which gives it significant strength and credibility... The clarity of perspective on the meaning of disability and its links to abuse gives this book an unusual legitimacy. -- Child Abuse ReviewFor anyone wishing to develop their understanding of the social model of disability this book is a useful text... Higgins speaks openly about the personal and professional experience she brings as researcher to this project. She gives a thorough account of some of the ethical and practical considerations encountered whilst using a narrative approach...This text gave me a reminder of the impact of the social model in this area and the need to re-examine practice and policy in light of this. -- Professional Social WorkThis book enables the reader to understand the social context in which the sexual abuse of disabled children occurs and the impact of that abuse upon the individual concerned... this is one of the strengths of the book, as it serves to remind the reader not only of the emotionally and physically destructive impact sexual abuse can have, but also of the effects of growing up disabled in a society that devalues children and adults with impairments. The book covers a wide range of issues, weaving in the individuals' stories throughout. It highlights the social context of the sexual abuse of disabled children and makes the pint that despite knowledge that disabled children are a vulnerable group, the dearth of research in this area perhaps mirrors the de-valued status disabled people have in society. The stories told by the participants draw attention to how being undervalued by family members can impact upon disabled children's views of themselves, most often in a negative way, leading to loss of self-esteem... Disability and Child Sexual Abuse is a book that contains a wealth of information and would be of great use to any practitioner working with disabled children or adults. -- oxfordjournal.org, Rachel Clawson, Development Manager, Safeguarding Disabled Children Services, Ann Craft Trust and Special Lecturer, Centre for Social Work, University of NottinghamThis is an important and well-written book which addresses subjects such as infanticide and false memory syndrome with a capable and compassionate attitude. The authors write of the need to distinguish between 'narrative truth' conveyed during the therapeutic process as opposed to 'historical truth' which is associated with facts and the legal connotations. -- Therapy TodayChildren and young people with disabilities are at the highest risk of all forms of abuse. Until comparatively recently the vulnerability of children with disabilities to sexual abuse have been denied or dismissed using expressions such as, 'They don't understand what happened' or even, 'She probably asked for it'. In this unique book, Martina Higgins and John Swain have for the first time given victims with disabilities a voice. Disability and Child Sexual Abuse effectively combines life histories with theory to provide valuable insights for all those working with abuse survivors, children and adults with disabilities and, I hope, will lead to better protection and support. -- Emeritus Professor Freda Briggs AO, University of South AustraliaTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. Seven Disabled People with Telling Stories. 2. Narrative and Enabling Stories of Child Abuse. 3. An Abusive Society? 4. The Double Whammy Effect. 5. Expressions and Survival of Pain. 6. Organizational Abuse. 7. Who Abuses and Why? 8. Collective Identities. 9. Narratives of the Narrative. 10. Conclusion: towards a Non-Abusive Society. References. Index

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Book SynopsisPeople with Asperger Syndrome have many characteristics that are frequently seen in a negative light. Brenda Boyd shows that for every characteristic of AS that can be looked at negatively, there are several positive aspects that can be drawn on and developed. Discussing AS in general terms, she talks through the reasons why people with AS approach life in the way they do, and what an enormous contribution they make to the world. She then explores different characteristics of AS; while she acknowledges the negative perception so many people have of these characteristics, she points out the large number of advantages to the Aspergers way of thinking for individuals with AS, those around them and society as a whole. For every negative, Boyd proves there are many more positives. From their refreshing honesty to their originality and potential to become leaders rather than followers, people with AS have many admirable personality traits that should be nurtured. This book shows that by adjusting our perceptions of what is 'normal' and embracing diversity, AS can not only be understood and accepted, but appreciated. Appreciating Asperger Syndrome is a celebration of AS which should be read by individuals with AS, family members, and anyone who knows or works professionally with individuals with AS.Trade ReviewThe book made me smile, reflect and, yes, appreciate AS. -- College of Occupational Therapists Newsletter, Specialist Section: People with Learning DisabilitiesBasically this is an excellent book to allow us to look at ourselves, those we know, those we work with, those we parent in a way that understands some of our basic differences. A really enjoyable and useful book by a passionate and expressive author with a great deal of knowledge for us to learn from. -- COTSS PLD NewsletterHere Boyd provides exercises and advice for those with Asperger's to see the positive in their condition and to find coping methods for liviving in a world that doesn't understand the reason behind their social gaffes. -- SciTech Book NewsTable of ContentsForeword. Part 1: Asperger Syndrome - Unlocking the Mystery. Introduction. 1. Bumping into Lamp Posts and Stepping on Toes. 2. Seeing Stars. 3. The Big Umbrella. 4. Wrong Planet Syndrome. 5. The Decoding Approach. 6. Labels and Boxes. 7. Getting it Right. 8. The Wilderness Years. 9. Aspergers and Autism? 10. Aspergers and Giftedness? 11. Identifying Hidden Aspies. 12. Happy Ending, Happy Beginning. 13. Thinking Positive! 14. Positive Philosophies. Part 2: Asperger Syndrome - 300 Positives (an A-Z). Aspie quotations. Useful websites. Bibliography. Index.

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Book SynopsisFriendship, even for the most able, requires hard work, and the odds are heavily stacked against those with autism spectrum conditions. Designed for younger children, typically between the ages of two and eight, this comprehensive set of enjoyable activities emphasizes foundation skills such as social referencing, regulating behavior, conversational reciprocity and synchronized actions. The authors include many objectives to plan and evaluate a child's progress, each one related to a specific exercise. Suitable for parental use, the manual is also designed for easy implementation in schools and in therapeutic settings.Trade ReviewThe book is applicable for parents of those on the spectrum, children and adults on the spectrum, teachers, counsellors and anyone involved with, and wishing to help, those to whom social skills do not come naturally... The book is divided into sex levels from novice right through to partner. Each chapter has a similar format which makes it familiar and easy to use. After an initial summary and explanation about the purpose of the section, plus coaching tips, a series of worksheets and activities are provided with clear objectives and instructions. Creative coaches can adapt and extend many of the ideas. Each sheet has a simple objective e.g. In the novice stage, developing attentiveness to communication is a formative skill... Overall this is an extremely useful book with some stimulating and enjoyable exercises that could easily be used as the bases for a parent-let group. Many of the exercises could be carried out by motivated individuals with one or more willing partners. This is good value for money due to the quality and number of worksheets. -- AS TeensThe book contains step by step well laid out activities to teach and encourage skills such as attending, social referencing, improvisation, co-creativity and collaborating, among many others. It is a very much a user friendly `manual' and will be great for planning play dates. The first book is aimed at ages 2 - 8 -- PeachThis Publication is much more than a book, it is a prescription of detailed objective-based interventions in developmental progression for children aged 2 to 8 to develop friendships, relationships and appropriate social behaviour. This manual is suitable for parental use and is an excellent frame of reference to adopt when working with children to acquire relationship skills. It discreetly covers attention, motivation, eye contact and management. This book is not the fix-it model for relationship difficulties, but I fail to see how even implementing one of the activities could not have a positive outcome for both child and therapist. -- NAPOTIt provides a wealth of activities, following a developmental model, for therapists, teachers and parents. The authors suggest that children with autism do not develop friendships just by being among peers, but need strategies and activities to develop the foundations of social referencing, regulation of their own behaviour, and practice in becoming a social partner. The activities focus on teaching the child how to see others as real people, develop a curiosity for social interaction, become a team member, and adapt in social settings. Although some initial activities are a little unorthodox, they are fun and designed to provide the scaffolding needed to teach relationship skills. -- BulletinTable of ContentsActivities. 1. Introduction 2. Friendships are Relationships 3. Relationship Development Intervention (RDI). Level I: Novice. Stage 1. Attend. Stage 2. Reference. Stage 3. Regulate. Stage 4. Coordinate. Level II: Apprentice. Stage 5. Variation. Stage 6. Transformation. Stage 7. Synchronization. Stage 8. Duets. Level III: Challenger. Stage 9. Collaboration. Stage 10. Improvisation. Stage 11. Co-Creation. Stage 12. Running Mates. Appendix A: Progress Tracking Form. Topic Index for Activities. Levels and Stages of the Complete RDI Program.

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Book SynopsisThis volume contains over 200 enjoyable and stimulating activities and exercises ranging over the entire gamut of social and emotional development, and is applicable to anyone, regardless of diagnosis, but will be particularly valuable for those on the autism spectrum. Activities can be undertaken independently, or with a teacher or therapist, and a full schema for the evaluation of progress and objectives is included. A companion website, free to purchasers provides a wealth of further information and support.Trade ReviewAll the activities are provided in a step-by-step manner that a parent can implement in a fun way. I've been using the beginning stages with my daughter for a coupla weeks now for up to an hour a day and she seems to thoroughly enjoy the interaction, long term benefits are yet to be seen but look promising. -- PeachTable of ContentsActivities. 1. Introduction. 2. Relationships. 3. Using the Activities. Level I: Novice. Stage 1. Attend. Stage 2. Reference. Stage 3. Regulate. Stage 4. Coordinate. Level II: Apprentice. Stage 5. Variation. Stage 6. Transformation. Stage 7. Synchronization. Stage 8. Duets. Level III: Challenger. Stage 9. Collaboration. Stage 10. Improvisation. Stage 11. Co-Creation. Stage 12. Running Mates. Level IV: Voyager. Stage 13. Perspectives. Stage 14. Imagination. Stage 15. Group Foundations. Stage 16. Emotion Regulation. Level V: Explorer. Stage 17. Ideas. Stage 18. What's Inside. Stage 19. Conversations. Stage 20. Allies. Appendix A: Relationship Development Questionnaire. Index of Activities and Objectives. Objectives. Levels and Stages of the Complete RDI Program.

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Book SynopsisPeople with autism spectrum conditions may often behave in ways that cause difficulties for themselves and those who care for them. People with Autism Behaving Badly offers effective, long-term strategies to help resolve common problem behaviors such as physical aggression, self-injury, verbal abuse, rudeness and property damage.The book is organized around the common messages conveyed by behaviors and some of the underlying issues that drive these messages. Practical ideas for intervention are provided and illustrated by case examples. A range of exercises help to build understanding of the issues and detail appropriate plans. A log book helps to track what has been tried and what has been learned. In addition the author explores the role of relationship `styles' that can help reduce challenging behaviors and encourage positive ones. Realistic information about working together with individuals, families and outside agencies, and about the pros and cons of medication, is also included.This hands-on, practical manual is indispensable for families, carers and anyone involved with autistic people who need help with behavioral or emotional challenges.Trade ReviewThis book could prove a valuable resource for families of children and adults on the autistic spectrum, as well as the professionals working on them. -- www.youthinmind.netPeople on the autistic spectrum can often display challenging behaviour that has a significant impact on them, their family members and the wider community. This book provides readers with ideas of how to reduce the frequency and severity of such behaviour. It emphasises using what is already known about what does and doesn't work for an individual to guide thinking around this, and a number of exercises are included to help readers focus on what they want to do, why and how. -- www.youthinmind.netThis is a thorough and thoughtful book which is designed to be used as a workbook rather than as a shelf text. It even has two appendices filled with exercises and logs that parents and carers can fill out as they trial the various approaches they choose. As the author says when talking about his book "It offers no magic answers or quick fix solutions. It is about the little things that can be done in everyday life to make things better. It is about using the insights and skills that families have, and working away patiently in a spirit of optimism." -- Autism AwarenessThese chapters contain a wealth of information for family members about behavioural assessment and treatment, presented in accessible language. Constructing this kind of bridge from scientific literature to popular, self-help material is an unappreciated art, and Clements has done it capably. -- PsycCritiquesThis is a great book for parents and professional alike, it offers long term practical strategies to deal with those behaviours which are so distressing for young people with asd and their families. Chapter one is entitled "read this chapter" - here every other chapter in the book is summarised enabling the reader to dip into the appropriate sections as required. Clements shows great empathy with families and gives case examples from his vast experience to illustrate each issue addressed. Having a child or young person in the family with challenging behaviours means that sometimes we get so wrapped up in surviving each day fire watching each situation, that we don't feel able to take a step back and look at where changes can be made. This book helps us to do just that. I would recommend that all families living with autism read it. -- Autism MattersWriting primarily for families of individuals living within the autism spectrum, practitioner Clements gives practical ideas to help reduce the frequency and severity of those individual's undesired behaviours both in public and at home. Admitting that there are no magic answers, he advocates using what families have on their side naturally: optimism, insight, coping skills, and a unique understanding on the needs and behaviours of their family member. He describes how to pinpoint the problem, screen underlying causes, developing a systematic and consistent way of responding to the behaviours, getting into the specifics such as behavioural work, underlying issues, and medications. He includes worksheets and questions to research, learning logs, and a model for patient-doctor interactions. -- Book NewsI would recommend this book to families who already know about autistic spectrum disorder, and who want to work towards overcoming difficulties relating to certain behaviours, writes Beth Billington. The language used is accessible and not too jargon-oriented, and the book is clearly laid out. I particularly like guidelines on how to use the book effectively, without having to read every page. The book is practically very useful, with suggestions for prioritising goals, practical ideas and case examples to illustrate concepts. The use of exercises and thinking points enables the reader to give it a go in the real world, in order to foster change. It explains why people with ASD may "behave badly", and each chapter outlines a theme explaining the reasons behind behaviours that, to "neurotypicals" (people not on the autistic spectrum) may seem inexplicable. -- Community CareTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Part 1. Chapter 1. Read this Chapter. Chapter 2, What's the problem? Chapter 3. Responding to incidents. Part 2. Chapter 4. I can't stand that. Chapter 5. You lost me. Chapter 6. There's something I want from you. Chapter 7. I don't want to say `No'. Chapter 8. I love it when… Chapter 9. I feel terrible. Chapter 10. I'm in charge here. Part 3. Chapter 11. Loss of social connectedness. Chapter 12. Loss of personal well being. Part 4. Chapter 13. Thinking about Drugs Chapter 14. Specific interventions - relationship styles. Chapter 15. Conclusion: Which planet? Appendix 1. Supports that work - what we have learned. Appendix 2. Learning log. Appendix 3. Parent-doctor consultation. Index.

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Book SynopsisAll parents want the best for their child, and for parents of children with special needs, this can mean that their own well-being is neglected. Drawing from their own experiences of parenting children with special needs, interviews and workshops with parents, and research findings, Nancy J. Whiteman and Linda Roan-Yager explore practical ways in which parents can develop a resilient and positive attitude towards caring for their child with special needs.This book considers the challenges of caring for children with physical, developmental and mental health disorders and proposes methods such as learning to see events through your child's own eyes, celebrating their strengths and achievements and recognising how others can help your child. Chapters deal with key topics such as coping with a diagnosis, discussing support needs with a child's teachers and explaining a child's differences to their peers, and the authors stress the importance of parents building support systems for themselves and their children. Real stories from parents and example scenarios illustrate the common difficulties faced by parents of children with special needs, and the authors explain how painful thoughts may be identified and reframed through techniques grounded in cognitive behaviour therapy. Crucially, Building a Joyful Life warns against parents neglecting their own needs, and a range of exercises to be completed by parents will help them to find ways of regaining balance in their lives.Trade ReviewAll parents want the best for their child and for parents of children with special needs, this can mean that their own well being is neglected. Drawing from their own experiences of parenting children with special needs, interviews and workshops with parents, and research findings. Nancy J Whiteman and Linda Roan-Yager explore practical ways in which parents can develop a resilient and positive attitude towards caring for their child with special needs. -- MychildDrawing on practical experience of parenting children with special needs, this workbook explores ways of developing flexible and positive approaches towards providing care and support. It covers physical, developmental and mental disorders, and crucially advises parents against neglecting their own needs. -- British Institute of Learning DisabilitiesEndorsements:'Building a Joyful Life with your Child who has Special Needs is a survival manual for parents of children with disabilities. In this well written and comprehensive book, the authors give parents permission to feel, to accept their faults, to value themselves, and ultimately, to come to terms with their lives. The exercises throughout the book provide a personal, individualized approach that will help each parent find their own way and discover their own consolations from this experience. Building a Joyful Life will be helpful to not only parents of children with special needs but also to the professionals who work with children and their families.' -- Ann Palmer, author of Realizing the College Dream with Autism or Asperger Syndrome and Parenting Across the Autism SpectrumNancy Whiteman and Linda Roan-Yager offer indispensable advice for parents of children with special needs. Drawing on their substantial experience in working with parents, they offer seasoned advice for dealing with one's own disappointments, guilt, and frustration; the stigma of psychiatric illness; improving interactions with children; and building better family and social relationships. Parents will appreciate the mixture of empathy, compassion, and practical application of coping techniques. -- David J. Miklowitz, Ph.D., Department of Psychology, University of ColoradoParents of special needs children struggle to find a place for support, understanding, and hope. Nancy Whiteman and Linda Roan-Yager have created a useful resource that will help parents, as the authors' state, 'come in contact with their own story.' In so doing, parents of special needs children can begin living life more `relaxed, centered and happy' for themselves and their children. -- James Morris, Ph.D., Marriage and Family Therapy Program, Texas Tech University, and Former President, American Association for Marriage and Family TherapyRaising a child with special needs is filled with unique challenges and joys. The authors have integrated their own experiences as mothers of children with special needs, their professional work with families, and recent research findings to offer support, practical exercises and real life stories designed to inspire and encourage parents. -- Human GivensThis positive and useful workbook will help parents of children with disabilities refuel and nourish their own lives! -- Elizabeth Goodwin, Co-founder, The National Down Syndrome SocietyWhen their children were diagnosed with special needs, Whiteman (mother of a girl with Bipolar Disorder)and Roan-Yager (Whose daughter has Down Syndrome) went looking for books that would tell them how to go about surviving such an unexpected life change, and finding nothing satisfactory, resolved to write one themselves. The result blends the no-nonsense, "take your life in your hands and fix it" Approach of standard self-help books with a compassionate understanding of how hard that can be when your child's needs feel overwhelming. -- About.comWhile all parents want the best for their children, parents of a child with special needs sometimes discover that their of a child with special needs sometimes discover their intense focus on the child comes at the expense of fully enjoying their own lives. The co-authors of this book both have children with special needs. They formed an organization named Shifting View to provide inspiration and practical strategies for parents through coaching sessions and workshops. Those experiences established the groundwork for Building a Joyful Life. The basic premise of this book is that no matter what the disability or challenge - physical, developmental, learning or mental health - parents can take control of their own lives and find happiness while ensuring the best for their children. -- QuestTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. A Note on the Text. About the Authors. Introduction. 1. Springing Back and Moving Forward: Resilience and Happiness. 2. Putting on Your Oxygen Mask: Intention and Self-care. 3. The Twisted Skein: Embracing our Complex and Conflicting Feelings. 4. Seeing with New Eyes: Reframing our Perceptions and Beliefs. 5. Shrinking the Balloon: Seeing our Child as a Whole Person. 6. Building Your Child's Village: Deepening our Child's Connections to Others. 7. Knocking on the Door: Building our Support Systems. 8. Finding Personal Meaning: Unlocking the Fullness of Life. Additional Resources. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisAnne's sister Becky was born in 1958, long before most people had even heard of autism. Diagnosed with "emotional disturbance," Becky was subjected for much of her childhood to well-meaning but futile efforts at "rehabilitation" or "cure," as well as prolonged spells in institutions away from her family.Painting a vivid picture of growing up in small-town America during the Sixties, Anne describes her sister's and her own painful childhood experiences with compassion and honesty. Struggling with the separation from her sister and the emotional and financial hardships the family experienced as a result of Becky's condition, Anne nevertheless found that her sister had something that "normal" people were unable to offer. Today she is accepting of her sister's autism and the impact, both painful and positive, it has had on both their lives.This bittersweet memoir will resonate with families affected by autism and other developmental disorders and will appeal to everyone interested in the condition.Trade ReviewThis is a gripping book about a family's survival to get their daughter disgnosed. When they finally receive a disgnosis they are told it is autism. It takes you through the journey from when Becky was a baby until she was in her forties. It covers all the challenges the family encounter just to survive and some of the rewards they receive for being persistent. Readers will be won over by the herat-warming story of this family, who have usually encountered some of the same roadblocks as other families coping with autism. -- Good Autism PracticeThe journey from early childhood through puberty and into adulthood is movingly documanted in a frank and critical way... This book shows how autism can have an impact on siblings and their efforts to reconcile their own developmental needs with the challengeing demands of a sister with autism. -- DebateTable of ContentsIntroduction. Chapter One. Chapter Two. Chapter Three. Chapter Four. Chapter Five. Chapter Six. Chapter Seven. Chapter Eight. Chapter Nine. Chapter Ten. Chapter Eleven. Chapter Twelve. Chapter Thirteen. Chapter Fourteen. Chapter Fifteen. Chapter Sixteen. Chapter Seventeen. Chapter Eighteen. Afterword.

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Book SynopsisFamilies of Adults with Autism is a collection of real-life stories of people on the autism spectrum growing up, as told by their parents and siblings.The individual accounts explore the challenges that families of people with autism have faced, and the techniques they have used to improve the quality of their children's lives, from mega-doses of vitamins and dietary changes to intensive interaction. The contributors also relate how they have worked with their children or siblings to help them to function at their highest possible level, be it showing an awareness of their environment, holding down a full-time job in a local store, competing in the Special Olympics, or achieving international recognition as an artist.This book will offer practical and heartwarming advice to families who are affected by autism spectrum disorders, and provide insights for professionals working with people with ASDs.Trade ReviewThis is a very moving collection of stories, as is the story of its publication, but it is also full of information, determination and hope. -- GAPI recommend this book to any social worker or social work student -- in fact, anyone who wants to get a feeling for what it is like to live with and care for an individual with ASD. -- British Journal of Social WorkA collection of real-life stories of people on the autism spectrum growing up, as told by their parents and siblings. -- Current Awareness ServiceTable of ContentsForeword. Stephen M. Edelson, PhD, Director of the Autism Research Institute, USA. 1. Helen Landalf. Helen Landalf, daughter of Dr Bernard Rimland. 2. Joan H. Goble, M.D. Joan H. Goble, pediatric opthamologist. 3. Jean and Michael Curtin. Jean, mother of Michael and Michael Curtin, writer. 4. Katie Dolan. Katie Dolan, activist, president of Seattle ASA. 5. John Henley. John Henley, father of Sean. 6. Gerda McCarthy. Gerda McCarthy, Director-founder, International Autistic Research Organization/Autism Research Ltd. 7. Toby Arenberg. Toby Arenberg,Co-founder, Jay Nolan Community Services. 8. Raymond Gallup. Raymond Gallup, Co-founder and Director, Vaccine Autoimmune Project. 9. Julie Gallup. Julie Gallup, daughter of Ray. 10. Clara Claiborne Park. Clara Claiborne Park, author. 11. Carol Croke. Carol Croke, Co-founder, The Autism Society of Oregon. 12. Matthew DeLuca. Matthew DeLuca, father of Peter. 13. Jinny and Bill Kemmel. Jinny and Bill Kemmel, parents of Bill. 14. Elaine Woodruff. Elaine Woodruff, mother of Kristina Woodruff, artist with autism. 15. Ann Laferty-Snowhook. Ann Laferty-Snowhook, Co-founder, Jay Nolan Community Service. 16. Jordan Snowhook. Jordan Snowhook, son of Ann. 17. Elizabeth Snowhook. Elizabeth Snowhook, daughter of Ann.18. Kim Oakley. Kim Oakley, writer. 19. Irina Lobkovitz. Irina Lobkovitz, mother of Henry. 20. Kristin Zhivago. Kristin Zhivago, mother of Michael. 21. Sue Swezey. Sue Swezey, Co-founder, San Francisco Bay Area Chapter, Autism Society of America. 22. Edith P. Gray. Edith P. Gray, mother of Michael. 23. Beth Sposato. Beth Sposato, editor, `The A Book: A Collection of Writings from ASA ADVOCATE, 1979-89'. 24. Sharon Lettick Crotzer. Sharon Lettick Crotzer, daughter of Amy Lettick, Founder of Benhaven 25. Ruth C. Sullivan. Ruth C. Sullivan, PhD, founder of Autism Services Center and first president of ASA. 26. Toshiko Lyons. Toshiko Lyons, mother of Edmund. 27. Sally Graham. Sally Graham, mother of Edward. 28. Lawrence Stream. Lawrence Stream, doctor and father of LW. 29. Maxine Richards. Maxine Richards, mother of Randy. 30. Arlene J. Paster. Arlene Paster, Co-founder, Jay Nolan Community Services 31. Mary Laird Flanagan. Mary Laird Flanagan, former president, ASA Long Island. 32. Dr. and Mrs. William K. Henry. Rev William K. Henry, Ed.D., and Jan Henry, wife and mother of Andrew. 33. Francine M. Bernstein. Francine H. Bernstein, founder of the BLARE House Program. 34. Dorothy Beavers. Dr Dorothy Beavers, author of Autism; Nightmare Without End. 35. Jim Cockey. Jim Cockney, composer. 36. Audrey Flack. Audrey Flack, artist.

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Book SynopsisIn the United States alone, there are roughly three million individuals living with a developmental disability, but less than a third are active in the labor market. This book provides a comprehensive approach to developing a successful jobs program for persons with developmental disabilities, drawn from the author's extensive experience and real success.The majority of persons with developmental disabilities are unemployed, underemployed, or still work in sheltered programs where it is almost impossible to reach their full potential. Job success is possible, but it requires a system based on a business model based on proven economics, rather than the traditional social services model. By employing a step-by-step procedure for gaining insight into the client, analyzing market opportunities, matching the client to a job, and supporting the client after placement, service providers can help individuals make a successful transition into good community-based employment.Job Success for Persons with Developmental Disabilities will be essential reading for profit and non-profit rehabilitation service organizations, private job development businesses, government funding agencies, special education job placement programs, transition specialists, and families of persons with developmental disabilities.Trade ReviewThe book is well structured and written in a clear stuyle... The practical tone fo the book clearly reflects Wiegan's many years experience in the field of supporting and progressing individuals with developmental disabilities. There are some sections of the book that are useful as a refresher for experienced Occupational Psychologists and as useful background for new Occupational Psychologists. -- Journal of Occupational Psychology, Employment and DisabilityTable of ContentsChapter 1. The Philosophy of Employment. Chapter 2. The Business Model. Chapter 3. Understanding Job Success. Chapter 4. Understanding the Client. Chapter 5. The Job Development Plan. Chapter 6. Individual Job Development. Chapter 7. Corporate Job Development. Chapter 8. Natural Supports. Chapter 9. Understanding the Job. Chapter 10. On the Job Training. Chapter 11. Job Coaching. Chapter 12. Financial Success. Chapter 13. Hiring and Training Staff. Chapter 14. Mythology. Chapter 15. Health, Diet, and Socialization. Chapter 16. Organizations, Structures, and Ethics. Addendum: Principles of Job Success. References. Index

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

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Book SynopsisFrom the liberation of the electric wheelchair to the ignominy of discrimination and incarceration, there have been both great advances and terrible setbacks for disabled people in Britain over the last fifty years. Hard-hitting and hilarious, personal and poignant, CripTales comprises six fictional monologues portraying some very real experiences. From negotiating friendships and personal assistants, navigating the benefits system, and experiencing sexual fulfilment, they challenge the view that having a disability is a problem or ‘not normal’. Normal doesn’t exist! CripTales was commissioned by the BBC and broadcast on BBC Four and BBC America in 2020 to mark the twenty-fifth anniversary of the UK’s Disability Discrimination Act, which criminalised discrimination against disabled people in many areas of life. The production had disabled people at its core – as writers, directors and actors of all six monologues. Mat Fraser, the series’ Creative Director, said, ‘Disabled voices have been shut out of mainstream TV drama for too long and this is a chance to showcase some of the wonderful, inventive, funny, dramatic, sexy and sobering potential available… We called the series CripTales, as the word ‘crip’ has been taken by the disabled community as a self-empowering title since the late ’80s, and these are authentic stories and tales from people who identify as Deaf and Disabled people and who are embedded in disabled community.’Trade Review'Hilarious and wise and gentle and furious all at once' * The Times *'Moving and authentic… succeeds both as a collective artistic statement, and as an unusually in-depth experience in disability awareness… an emotionally complex, topically diverse series that makes a strong statement for the disability experience and disabled artists’ unique ability to interpret it' * Forbes *'A brilliant, shocking, and funny collection… feels like a significant step forward' * Culture Whisper *'Sharp, dark and unexpected all at once… these monologues give Alan Bennett a run for his money' * The i paper *'Thought-provoking, amusing and touching' * Financial Times *

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Book SynopsisImagine a world without sight. Is it dark and gloomy? Is it terrifying and isolating? Or is it simply a state of not seeing, which we have demonised and sentimentalized over the centuries? And why is blindness so frightening? In this fascinating historical adventure, Broadcaster and author Selina Mills takes us on a journey through the history of blindness in Western Culture to discover that blindness is not so dark after all. Inspired by her own experience of losing her sight as she forged a successful journalistic career, Life Unseen takes us through a personal and unsentimental historical quest through the lives, stories and achievements of blind people - as well as those sighted people who sought to patronize, demonize and fix them. From the blind poet Homer, through the myths and moralising of early medieval culture to the scientific and medical discoveries of the Enlightenment and modern times, the story of blindness turns out to be a story of our whole culture.Trade ReviewWritten with wit, warmth and razor-sharp insight, this book should be essential reading for anyone with an interest in blindness, history, society, culture and beyond. -- Anna Bonet * Non-fiction book of the month, The i *Informative, heartfelt … This admirable book dispels myths around the condition. -- Martin Chilton * The Independent *Spirited, irreverent … Life Unseen offers an illuminating peek into one woman’s world, and asks searching questions of us all in terms of the different ways in which we perceive our world. There are no glib answers because blindness, as Life Unseen demonstrates, is a subject riven with ambiguity and complexity. In this important and hugely enjoyable book, Mills clears away some of the myths and injustices that surround it. -- Susan Flockhart * The Herald *It’s an extraordinary account of blindness, the mythology that surrounds it, the fallacies and taboos connected to it, and the attitudes towards it throughout the ages. Written by an author who is herself blind, it’s filled with fascinating information, practical insights and teaching moments about the nature of imagination, language and perception of our world. -- Joanne Harris * The Guardian *Selina Mills’s defiant book is a thundering challenge to our sighted notions of blindness, a resounding battle cry for a revolution in our age-old perceptions of being blind that should be read by sighted people everywhere. -- Wendy Moore * Times Literary Supplement *A beautiful, tender and inspiring book about seeing the world in a different way. * Peter Frankopan *Spirited … [A] powerful memoir-cum-manifesto. -- Ysenda Maxtone Graham * The Spectator *A powerful and erudite social history of blindness in the Western world interwoven with an extraordinarily moving but unsentimental account of her own gradual life-long descent into blindness. -- Julia Hamilton * The Catholic Herald *A much-needed and powerful examination of what it is to be blind. -- Simon Evans * Choice *Selina Mills de-mystifies blindness both in its material reality as well as its manifold superstitions. That she does this with wit and intelligence makes this a superb and memorable read. * Stephen Kuusisto, Syracuse University, USA *An original, well-researched work that provides superb insight into the world of people with visual impairment. * Hektoen International *What is it like to be blind-or nearly blind? In this enchanting, quirky memoir, Selina Mills leads us through her life among the curious, pitying, and well-wishing sighted. Anecdotes from myth, religion, literature, and medicine reveal the blind as devil, prophet, victim, genius, exhibit, disabled—and clown. The book’s cheerful revelation is that the blind are ‘ordinary’, that darkness is not all dark. * Janet Todd *Selina Mills crafts a compelling narrative that illuminates and animates the story of a community that has always existed but has been relegated to the margins and the shadows. Mills takes readers along on her personal journey as she comes to terms with her own blindness with candor and warmth. She shares her fears, her irritation, her rage, and yes, her joy, as her contemporary story resonates with the lives of famous and lesser known blind writers, musicians, inventors and leaders from the past and present. This book will help to reform the image of blindness from a tragedy that must be overcome to simply another facet of human diversity. * Georgina Kleege, University of California, Berkely, USA *The metanarrative of blindness hangs over us all, invites us to identify as sighted or blind, and thus to follow numerous binary assumptions that pertain to everything from sexuality to epistemology. Life Unseen helps to disrupt the myths, tropes, and stereotypes of the metanarrative via the often under-rated power of memoire. As such, the book makes an important contribution to blindness studies. * David Bolt, Professor of Disability Studies and Interdisciplinarity at Liverpool Hope University *This is a wonderfully refreshing account of blindness. With a winning mix of wit and erudition, Mills cuts through the stereotypes and clichés of blindness to give us a funny, touching and memorable account of her quest to understand why blindness gets such a bad press. Part history, part memoir, Mills’s writing takes us through an alternative history of blindness whilst reflecting with honesty and beauty on her personal journey into sight loss. A significant contribution to the field of critical blindness studies. * Hannah Thompson, Royal Holloway University of London, UK *Selina Mills achieves that finest of balances in Life Unseen, to discuss important intellectual and social issues in an entertaining and occasionally light-hearted way. Through an examination of topics such as schooling, a love of reading and writing and the popular need to cure blindness, Mills examines trends both current and historical, providing a very real experience of the cultural concept of blindness and what it is to be a blind person. * Simon Hayhoe, University of Bath, UK *I have been waiting, and hoping, for a book like this one. In Life Unseen, Selina Mills engages the myths and realities of blindness in ways that are both deeply researched and powerfully personal. Challenging stereotypes that have accrued over centuries, honoring the experiences of blind people past and present, Mills offers us a cultural history of blindness that is welcoming, whip smart, and surprisingly witty. This is a must read, and a very pleasurable read, for anyone interested in what blindness means and why blindness matters. * Vanessa Warne, University of Manitoba, Canada *This is a deeply personal and remarkably courageous book, exploring historical and literary constructions of blindness as manifestations of heroism or tragedy which set blind people apart from society as distinctly ‘others’. It argues convincingly that such stereotypes should be aside so that blind people can voice their own diverse experiences as ordinary human beings. * Anna Sapir Abulafia, Oxford University, UK *Table of ContentsPrologue: Close Your Eyes Chapter 1: Imagining It - Nandy and Mythic Heroes Chapter 2: Living With It – Dark Versus Light Chapter 3: Faking It – False Eyes, False Devils Chapter 4: Fixing It – The Lure of the Cure Chapter 5: Learning It – Educating "The Blind" Chapter 6: Reading It – Pure Fiction Chapter Seven: Inventing it – Who Decides What You See? Conclusion: What is Blindness Anyway? Index

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Book SynopsisDomestic violence is encountered by disabled women more frequently than non-disabled women, yet disabled women are less likely to receive appropriate services, and there has been little research on their experiences and how this problem can be addressed.This book, drawing on the first UK national study of disabled women who have suffered domestic violence, highlights the experiences of these women, the nature of the violence perpetrated against them, and the seriousness and range of its impacts. The book draws attention to the gaps in services for disabled women and discusses how professional responses should be developed and improved, pointing to current examples of good practice. It includes first-hand accounts from disabled women and includes contributions from leading disabled women activists.This book will be important reading for students, practitioners, policymakers and academics in the fields of disability and domestic violence.Trade Review...this book is a valuable and timely examination of disabled women's experience of domestic violence. -- Disability & SocietyDisabled women face multiple challenges and discrimination, both in their experiences of domestic and sexual violence, and in gaining access to appropriate services….I hope this book will be a wake-up call for professionals and activists in all relevant statutory and voluntary agencies to review our own policy approaches and ensure that in all our local consultations and strategic planning, the findings and messages in this book, and the voices of disabled women survivors, are heard. -- From the Foreword by Nicola Harwin, Chief Executive, Women's AidTable of ContentsForeword by Nicola Harwin CBE, Chief Executive of Women's Aid Federation of England. 1. Introduction. 2. What the research tells us: A story of gaps and lacks. 3. Disabled women's experiences of domestic violence and abuse. 4. Professional responses to disabled women affected by domestic violence. 5. Understanding our history: the personal is political (Brenda Ellis and Ruth Bashall). 6. Nothing about us without us: policy and practice (Ruth Bashall and Brenda Ellis). 7. Ideas for moving forward: good practice and recommendations. 8. Looking more widely: strategic agendas and incorporating issues for disabled women experiencing domestic violence. 9. Conclusions.

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Book SynopsisLosing a loved one and coping with the subsequent adjustments that follow are a difficult fact of life, but people with learning disabilities face specific difficulties in processing and managing these changes. Adopting an integrative approach, this book acknowledges the importance of helping relationships in supporting this vulnerable group through periods of loss and bereavement.The author explains how to engage the person with a learning disability in talking therapy by creating an open dialogue. Common signs of stress, factors to consider in assessing risk and advice on how best to approach difficult subjects are presented. The role of supervision in counselling and issues surrounding terminal illness are also discussed, and practical solutions offered.Professionals working in the field of learning disabilities, such as counsellors, therapists, carers and health and social care students will find this informed guide beneficial in communicating and supporting people with learning disabilities.Trade ReviewThe book provides in depth information on the impact of loss and how this affects all aspects of an individual's life... The case studies provide practical examples and the key points at the end of each chapter assist with emphasising the main messages... There is practical advice for professionals and carers on how to discuss the impact of loss and bereavement with individuals with learning disabilities, including ways to communicate and the use of simple, clear and unambiguous language. The book also addresses the impact of loss for adults with autism and those who have additional communication needs which is particularly useful... The book would be a practical resource for occupational therapists, support staff and students. -- College of Occupational Therapists Section for Learning DisabilityThere are so few books on this very important subject, so it is wonderful to see anew publication. Robin Grey is a new voice amid the small group of practitioners and researchers who have been working in recent years to highlight and address some of the complexities of supporting people with learning disabilities through bereavement.The book is written by an experienced practitioner who has firsthand experience of this issue. It is accessible and welcoming to readers who may be put off by more academic texts. Its aim is very clearly to guide others supporting bereaved people with learning disabilities. -- Bereavement Care, Noelle Blackman, Deputy chief executive, RespondRobin Grey's book is rooted in his practical experience working in day and residential services for people with learning disabilities... While I am very familiar with these ideas, Grey writes about them in a straightforward, helpful and concise manner. -- Community LivingTable of Contents1. Introduction and overview. 2. How bereavement and loss can be different in learning disabilities. 3. Stages of loss. 4. Assessment. 5. Developing understanding around bereavement and loss. 6. Therapeutic tasks. 7. Working with families. 8. The carer's role in bereavement. 9. Working with clients who have additional communication needs. 10. Role of supervision. 11. Working with terminal illness. 12. Remembering and anniversaries. Useful organisations and resources. Further reading. Index.

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

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Book SynopsisAdopting a predominantly psychological approach, this book provides carers with up-to-date information and resources to provide appropriately individualised care to people with learning disabilities who self-injure. Understanding and Working with People with Learning Disabilities who Self-Injure synthesises traditional (behavioural) and newer (psychological) approaches to understanding self-injury, drawing on psychoanalytic and social theory to provide practical guidelines for more sustained and effective support. It suggests that motivations for self-injury may be similar for people with and without learning disabilities, and draws on case work examples to suggest person-centred techniques that encourage communication – particularly important with people who do not use verbal communication - and recovery. The book covers a range of specific needs, including people with autism who self-injure, and emphasises the views of people with learning disabilities themselves and their families about what has worked best, and why. At the end of each chapter, a variety of practical implications for the provision of support are given.This book is for those supporting people with learning disabilities who self-injure and will be a useful resource for social workers, psychologists, counsellors, learning support workers, nurses and social and health care students.Trade ReviewThis welcome book on self-injury has been put together by some of the best practitioners working with people with learning disabilities in the UK today. They have succeeded in bringing together social, psychological and service-user perspectives to inform our understanding and develop our skills. I am delighted to recommend it. -- Baroness Sheila Hollins, Executive Chair, Books Beyond Words and crossbench life peerTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. 1. Introduction. Andrew Lovell, University of Chester, UK and Pauline Heslop, University of Bristol, UK. Part 1. 2. Dimensions of Self-injury. Andrew Lovell and Pauline Heslop. 3. Social Approaches to Understanding Self-injury. Pauline Heslop. 4. Psychoanalytic Approaches to Understanding Self-injury. Pauline Heslop and Richard Curen, Respond, UK. 5. The Voice of Experience: People with Learning Disabilities and their Families Talking About How They Understand Self-injury. Pauline Heslop and Fiona Macauley, Bristol Crisis Service for Women, Bristol, UK. Part 2. 6. Minimising Harm. Helen Duperouzel and Rebecca Fish, Calderstones NHS Trust, UK. 7. What People with Learning Disabilities Say Helps Them. Pauline Heslop and Fiona Macaulay. 8. Family Voices. Andrew Lovell. 9. Psychoanalytical Approaches in Practice I. Valerie Sinason, Clinic for Dissociative Studies, UK. 10. Psychoanalytical Approaches in Practice II. Noelle Blackman, Respond, UK and Richard Curen. 11. Self-injury and Loss of Sense of Self. Phoebe Caldwell, Intensive Interaction practitioner. 12. A Relational Approach to Understanding Our Responses to Self-injury. Gloria Babiker, University of Bath, UK. 13. Conclusion. Pauline Heslop and Andrew Lovell. References. Contributors. Index.

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

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Book SynopsisThis book offers unique and flexible guidelines that can be used by practitioners to ease the process of breaking bad news to people with intellectual disabilities. The guidelines, which are adaptable to individual communication ability and level of understanding, address the many complex needs of people with intellectual disabilities who can find understanding and accepting news that has a negative impact on their life a very difficult task. In the book, Irene Tuffrey-Wijne covers a range of different types of bad news, from bereavement and illness to more minor issues such as a change of accommodation, and offers highly practical and effective tips that will help carers and practitioners ensure that bad news is relayed as sensitively and successfully as possible.An easy-to-use and comprehensive guide, this book will be an invaluable resource of information for carers, health professionals such as doctors and nurses as well as families of people with intellectual disabilities.Trade ReviewThis is an excellent book. It is thought provoking, and well-structured. It enables the reader to develop better insights into the impact of receiving bad news, not just for people with learning disabilities, but also in mainstream life. It deserves a place on everyone's bookshelf. -- Bereavement CareIrene Tuffrey-Wijne has written a thoroughly researched and clinically sound primer on how to break important, life-changing news to people with intellectual disabilities...This is a wise book deeply embedded in scholarly research and direct patient care and I commend it to everyone concerned about someone with intellectual disability and their future. -- Baroness Sheila Hollins, Professor of the Psychiatry of Learning Disability at St George's, University of London, and a crossbench life peer in the House of LordsI found this book a pleasurable read, despite the delicate subject matter. It is clearly written and is full of examples that are instantly recognisable in my daily practice. The book highlights the importance of helping clients understand bad news situations regardless of their level of intellectual disability, and proves how including a client's support network in the process can be crucial in ensuring that bad news is successfully relayed. Practical and easily accessible, this book finally provides us with a set of solid guidelines to support our practice! -- Marja Oud, palliative care lead and unit manager in a residential facility for people with intellectual disabilities, NetherlandsAs a parent, I wish I had been able to use this book by Dr Irene Tuffrey-Wijne when my daughter was slowly dying. Her guidelines are realistic, reassuring and rooted in a deep understanding of the highly individual needs of people with intellectual disabilities. It makes total sense to me that breaking bad news is a process, not an event. It demonstrates that it is possible to support someone with intellectual disabilities to come to terms with painful issues. -- Jan Sunman, parent carer and participant in Dr Irene Tuffrey -Wijne's researchTable of ContentsForeword by Professor Baroness Sheila Hollins. Section 1: Background. 1. Introduction. 2. Intellectual Disabilities. 3. What Is Bad News? 4. Breaking Bad News: Knowledge, Skill and Guidelines So Far. 5. Why We Need New Guidelines for Breaking Bad News. Section 2: Guidelines for Breaking Bad News. 6. Overview of the Guidelines. 7. Component 1: Building a Foundation of Knowledge. 8. Component 2: Understanding. 9. Component 3: People. 10. Component 4: Support. Section 3: Using the Guidelines. 11. How Can We Break the Knowledge Down into Chunks? 12. When Can We Start Building Knowledge? 13. Who Can Give Chunks of Knowledge? 14. Who Should Be Told? 15. How Much Can Someone with Intellectual Disabilities Understand? 16. Communicating with People with Intellectual Disabilities. 17. Can Someone Be Harmed By Receiving Too Much Information? 18. Sudden Bad News. 19. What If People Disagree about Breaking Bad News? 20. Some Further Advice. Section 4: Examples of the Model in Practice. 21. Introduction to the Examples. 22. Example A: Jeremy and Christine have cancer. 23. Example B: Ahmed and Carol have to move. 24. Example C: Moira, Ben and Isabel's friend has dementia. Section 5: Appendices. Appendix 1: Flow Chart: A One-Page Overview. Appendix 2: Ten Guiding Questions. Appendix 3: The Mental Capacity Act. Appendix 4: Resources. References.

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Book SynopsisExploring contemporary theory and practice surrounding loss and bereavement for people with intellectual disabilities (ID), this book brings together international contributors with a range of academic, professional and personal experience.This authoritative edited book looks at diverse experiences of loss across this population whether it be loss due to transition, the loss or death of others, or facing their own impending death. The book begins by offering theoretical perspectives on loss and compassion, bereavement, disenfranchised grief, spirituality, and psychological support. It then addresses contemporary practice issues in health and social care contexts and explores loss for specific communities with ID including children, individuals with autism, those in forensic environments, and those at the end of life.Identifying inherent challenges that arise when supporting individuals with ID experiencing loss, and providing evidence and case studies to support best practice approaches, this book will be valuable reading for students, academics and professionals in the fields of disability, health and social care.Trade ReviewPersonally and professionally loss and bereavement present us with challenges not least acknowledging our common human responses whilst at the same time recognising individual experiences. In presenting theory and exploring its application to individualised support this book responds to this challenge making a timely and helpful contribution to supporting people with intellectual disabilities in an often neglected area of practice. -- Ruth Northway, Professor of Learning Disability Nursing, University of South WalesI commend the authors on the insights and practical suggestions, underpinned by theoretical explanations and the use of evidence-based research. This book should be a valuable resource to practitioners and students in services that seek to compassionately support people with intellectual disabilities to continue to grow and have fulfilling lives after experiences of loss. -- From the Foreword by Professor Owen Barr, Head of School of Nursing, University of UlsterLoss and death are inescapable parts of life's rich tapestry; and it is a sad reality that people with intellectual disabilities are often excluded from exploring sensitive issues that surround loss and death. This is why, for me, this book is so valuable, for we are slowly but surely moving to a new era as to how this group of people make sense of loss and death and how we can support them. Through a series of well-constructed chapters that consolidate issues surrounding loss for people with intellectual disabilities, the book moves on to provide a unique evidence-based text that will be of considerable value to all those who work with people with intellectual disabilities, so that they might be helped to better understand loss and death as inescapable parts of life; in much the same ways as other citizens. The editor has successfully brought together a range of eminent and authoritative contributors who present a range of issues from the broad based nature of loss, particularly in relation to this population, and the contextual nature of appropriate care and support. I believe that this ground breaking and unique book will be of considerable value as a resource to practitioners and students alike who seek to support people with intellectual disabilities with compassion through their experiences of loss. ...[T]he editor and contributors are to be congratulated on the production of a highly relevant and contemporary text that I have no hesitation in both endorsing and recommending to all involved in supporting and, or, caring for people with intellectual disabilities through the experience of loss and death. -- Bob Gates, Professor of Learning Disabilities, University of West London, Institute for Practice, Interdisciplinary Research and Enterprise (INSPIRE) and Editor of the British Journal of Learning DisabilitiesThis work, edited by Professor Read, does not shrink from addressing challenging topics including a person's sense of being deprived of rights and journeying through life's transitions. Some journeys are planned while others are unexpected or unwelcome, but all need to be sensitively addressed. Every health, social and educational professional/carer should read this text so as to be able to effectively support people with intellectual disabilities through life defining and shaping times. -- Jim Blair, Consultant Nurse Intellectual Disabilities, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Associate Professor Kingston and St. George’s Universities, and BILD Health AdvisorEditor Sue Read has assembled a strong international team of authors from the UK, Ireland, USA and Australia that includes researchers, clinicians, a parent and a woman with an intellectual disability, so providing multiple perspectives on key issues. The primary focus is on people with intellectual disabilities, but importantly several chapters focus on the needs and experiences of caregivers (both family members and disability service staff). The book is characterised by empathy and compassion, with a consistent emphasis on similarities not differences. Issues are contextualized through analysis of theories about death and bereavement, as well as through emphasising the spectrum of responses to death and dying. This is a practical book with information about assessment and instruments, as well as practice tips. Most chapters include an individual story or detailed case study. Without exception these are very sensitively told and of immense assistance in understanding and responding to the issues in human terms. Those providing personal or professional support to a person with an intellectual disability who has experienced loss will find this book a rich and rewarding source of information, practical ideas and inspiration. -- Roger Stancliffe, Professor of Intellectual Disability Centre for Disability Research and Policy, The University of Sydney, AustraliaTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Foreword by Owen Barr, Head of School of Nursing, University of Ulster, UK. Contributors. Introduction. Sue Read, Professor of Learning Disability Nursing, Keele University, UK. Part I: Theoretical Perspectives. 1. Loss in the Caring Context. Sue Read. 2. Living with Loss. Sue Read and Mary Davies, a woman with intellectual disabilities and member of Reach, UK. 3. Grief and Mourning. Sue Read. 4. Complicated Grief. Philip Dodd, Director of Psychiatry, St. Michael's House, Clinical Senior Lecturer, Trinity College Dublin and Senior Lecturer, Centre for Disability Studies, University College Dublin, Ireland, and Noelle Blackman, CEO of Respond and Research Fellow, University Hertfordshire, UK. 5. Spirituality. William Gaventa, Director of Community and Congregational Supports, Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities and Associate Professor, UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Georgia, US. 6. Psychological Support in Health Care. Helena Priest, Senior Lecturer, Keele University and Research Director, Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, Staffordshire University, UK. Part II: Contemporary Practice Issues. 7. Loss and Resilience. Linda Machin, Honorary Research Fellow, Keele University, UK. 8. Working Creatively to Facilitate Loss. Sue Read. 9. Caring Fatigue. Ted Bowman, Adjunct Professor, University of Minnesota (Family Education) and University of Saint Thomas (Social Work), Minnesota, US. 10. Supporting Professional Carers. Michele Wiese, Research Associate, University of Sydney, Australia. 11. Advocacy, Empowerment and Communication. Patsy Corcoran, REACH Coordinator, Asist Advocacy Services, UK. Part III: Specialist Contexts and Considerations. 12. Loss, the Family and Caring. Mike Gibbs, Lecturer in Learning Disability Nursing, Keele University, UK. 13. Loss and People with Autism. Rachel Forrester-Jones, Reader in Health, Community and Social Care, Tizard Centre, UK. 14. Loss in Forensic Environments. Ben Hobson, Clinical Psychologist, National High Secure Learning Disability Service, Rampton Hospital, UK, Sue Read and Helena Priest. 15. Supporting Children and Young People with an Intellectual Disability and Life-Limiting Conditions. Erica Brown, Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood, Institute of Education, University of Worcester, UK. 16. Loss and End of Life Care. Karen Ryan, Consultant in Palliative Medicine, St Francis Hospice and Mater Hospital and Senior Investigator, All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care, Suzanne Guerin, Centre for Disability Studies, University College Dublin and All Ireland Institute of Hospice & Palliative Care and Phil Larkin, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University College Dublin and All Ireland Institute of Hospice & Palliative Care, Ireland. 17. Living with Shattered Dreams – A Parent's Perspective. Mandy Parks, parent of a daughter with severe disabilities, UK. 18. Research, Inclusivity and Marginalised Groups. Sue Read. Conclusion. Sue Read. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisMany health and social care professionals today feel untrained, fearful and ill-equipped to support their disabled patients, clients and service users in their sexual lives. The result is that disabled people can be left feeling frustrated and afraid that their sexual needs will be forever unrecognised and unmet. This is a straight-talking guide to supporting disabled people with their sexual lives. It covers the range of difficulties disabled people experience, from physical limitations to problems such as lack of acceptance, knowledge and skills. The real difficulties professionals experience are also covered with positive suggestions, and a chapter on communication discusses how to discuss sex. Sections follow on the sexual services available to help, and the wide range of sexual diversities which disabled people can and do enjoy. A chapter by Claire de Than covers the law.This clear, down-to-earth guide will be essential reading for all those working with or supporting disabled people, from care home workers and managers to social workers, medical staff and therapists.Trade ReviewPeople with disabilities have, too often, been denied sexual happiness and expression. Although attitudes are slowly changing, there is a long way to go. Tuppy's helpful anecdotes and lack of jargon make for an inspiring read which will give practitioners the confidence to discuss sex with their disabled clients. -- Helen Dunham, PSHE SEN Teacher and Shada MemberTuppy deserves national recognition for decades of challenging our collective neglect of the emotional, social and sexual needs of people with impairments. In the face of media, fashion and beauty industry promotion of perfect bodies, which cruelly makes disabled people 'outsiders', Tuppy has tirelessly campaigned and developed resources for the hundreds of thousands of UK people whose needs for friendship, affection and sex we marginalize and ignore. -- Andy Beckingham, FFPH, Consultant in Public HealthOur sex lives have been censored, ignored and unsupported, and Tuppy suggests many simple, respectful and clever ways in which this can be turned around. I hope her insightful book can contribute to improve the sex lives of many previously isolated or sexually frustrated disabled people. -- Mat FraserThis book is relevant to a broad range of professionals coming into contact with a broad range of disabled people. Whether physically, visually or hearing impaired, or with learning difficulties, deaf-blind or those with ME, social anxiety or Asperger's syndrome. This remarkable book will support all. -- Maria Oshodi, VI Artistic Director and CEO of ExtantTable of ContentsPreface. 1. Disabled People's Sexual Needs. 2. Difficulties Disabled People Face. 3. Difficulties Health and Social Care Professionals Face. 4. The Law. 5. Supporting Young Disabled People and their Parents. 6. Communication. 7. Specific Professions and the Allied Therapies. 8. Sexual Services. 9. Sexual Diversity. Postscript. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis book demonstrates very clearly how the personalisation of support and services works in practice. The authors describe how Jennie, a young person with autism and learning difficulties, was supported through the transition from school to living independently using simple, evidence-based person-centred planning tools. Jennie's story illustrates the importance of quality person-centred reviews, dispels the many myths surrounding Individual Service Funds and personal budgets and demonstrates how families, schools and other agencies can work collaboratively to help young people with disabilities move into adulthood with more choice and control over their lives, and with better life prospects. Practical pointers for readers to apply to their own circumstances are included, and the book contains helpful examples of the key person-centred thinking tools. Anyone involved in supporting children and young people with disabilities as they approach adulthood, including parents and carers, SENCOs, teachers, social workers and service providers, will find this to be essential reading. More generally, it will be an informative resource for those seeking a better understanding of how personalisation and person-centred planning work in practice.Trade ReviewThis book is intended for anyone involved in supporting young people with disabilities as they approach adulthood. -- Autism eyeThis is a much-needed resource for families and professionals and is especially helpful at a time when people are considering the implications and opportunities relating to the new SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability) system set out in the Children and Families Bill... One of the top ten Preparing for Adulthood messages is that local areas should "raise aspirations for a fulfilling life, by sharing clear information about what has already worked for others". Thank you Jennie, Suzie, Helen and Jennie's circle for sharing your experiences. This book will help local areas achieve this and ensure other young people and families have positive experiences of moving into adulthood and better life chances. -- from the foreword by Nicola Gitsham, Programme Manager, Preparing for AdulthoodAs President of The Association of Directors of Children's Services (ADCS) for the year 2013/14, I have been privileged to work closely with a number of key people in central government departments, with colleagues across the voluntary and independent sectors and with other local authorities. There is enormous commitment across the country, at all levels, to bring about a culture change in the way we identify strengths and needs, and provide support to children with additional needs and their families. Suzie's story reinforces my view that significant change should and can happen, and we must make it happen. -- from the afterword by Andrew Webb, President of The Association of Directors of Children's Services Ltd (ADCS) and Corporate Director, Services for People, Stockport CouncilThis is clearly going to be a useful - and inspiring - resource for anyone wishing to support a person they care for to live the life they choose. What I like about it is that it goes beyond the rhetoric of personalisation to make it a reality by showing how those who know the person best can come up with creative and innovative solutions to overcome some of the barriers traditional thinking might put in the way of progress. The 'Circle of Support' is a particularly powerful idea. -- Mark Lever, Chief Executive, National Autistic SocietyAs a mother of two sons with autism, I feel gratitude to Suzie Franklin for setting out so clearly the path she and her daughter Jennie have taken... This book shows how Jennie's team, headed by Suzie, have achieved an excellent outcomes through "Jennie-centred" planning... given the right kind of living environment, with all their priorities and idiosyncrasies taken into consideration, they can lead rich, fulfilling, interactive lives.Personallisation in Practice explains the process step by step, while at the same time painting a vivid picture of Jennie's vibrant, life-enhancing personality. This is an immensely useful book for parents and professionals -- Charlotte Moore, author of George And Sam- Autism in the Family * Children and Young People Now *This book provides essential information for families and professionals to help them support young disabled people to make the most of the personalisation agenda, and gain more choice and control over their lives. Person-centred planning is a key part of this process... this book is refreshing... packed with references to more in-depth information... this book is a great resource, demonstrating good practice and useful tips and tools to make personalisation a reality for many more people. -- Maria Chambers, executive principal, Scope * Children & Young People Now *This book deals with the first author's personal experiences of personalisation. It tells the story of her daughter,Jenny, from the diagnosis of autism through to independent adulthood, focusing on how personalised services can be set up for the transition from school to adulthood. The second author has been heavily involved in the government personalisation agenda... It is valuable that the challenges the author faced, both practical and emotional, are also included, as this offers the reader ideas about how to overcome similar challenges... The book is easy to read, well structured, and divided into logical chapters that are easy to access. It could be readcover-to-cover very quickly, which is ideal for busy parents and professionals.It would be of use for professionalsworking in transition services or, perhaps even more so, parents looking ahead to supporting their child in thetransition to adulthood. -- Kirsty Gilmour, Occupational Therapist, The Evelina London Childrens' Community OT Service * British Journal of Occupational Therapy *Table of ContentsForeword by Nicola Gitsham. Introduction. 1. Early Years. 2. Transition and Person-Centred Reviews. 3. Jennie's 'Circle of Support'. 4. Thinking About a Personal Budget and Developing Jennie's Support Plan. 5. Finding Jennie a Place to Live. 6. Finding the Provider. 7. Getting the Right Staff for Jennie. 8. Training and Supporting Staff to be 'Jennie Experts'. 9. Making it all Happen - Person-Centred Reviews and Change. 10. Two Years On - A New Path. 11. Our Advice for Families, Providers and Local Authorities. Afterword by Andrew Webb. Appendix: Person-Centred Planning Tools. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis best practice guide provides a blueprint for managing seamless transitions between services for young people aged 16-25 with additional needs, including learning disabilities, physical disabilities, complex health needs and sensory impairments. The authors cover a wide range of transitions, including moving from children's to adult's services, from school to college, leaving education and gaining work experience and employment and supporting young people to live independently. They include key information on policy and legislation, the statutory duty of local authorities and health, housing and education agencies, and describe the impact of the new Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plans. With a wealth of practical, common sense guidance for navigating this complex area of work in a timely, efficient and cost-effective manner, the book will guide practitioners and students step-by-step through the process of managing transitions, highlighting best practice and providing evidence-based models to ensure the best possible outcomes for service users and their families. An essential resource for all those involved in supporting young people with additional needs through transitions, including social workers and social work students, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, health professionals and special education teachers.Trade ReviewOf great value not only because of its comprehensive coverage and detailed illustrations of timely issues in welfare and social service provision for young persons with disabilities... but also because of its step-by-step guidance for service delivery. This is particularly informative and helpful to the helping professionals in China, especially those working on the frontline in service planning for young persons with special needs. -- China Journal of Social WorkTransitions are notoriously difficult times for young people, their families - and especially so for those with disabilities. All too often the heavy case load pressures on staff mean that key legal requirements are overlooked and valuable relationships are lost when key professionals 'move on' during the perpetual reorganisations that occur in health and social care.A book spelling out the key good practice, policy and legal requirements during the transition process is long overdue and most welcome. It is all the more important given the major legal and policy changes that flow from the enactment of both the Children and Families Act 2014 which creates new and detailed obligations on social services authorities in relation to disabled children, their carers and young carers negotiating the transition process. -- Luke Clements, Cerebra Professor of Law, Cardiff Law SchoolTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. 1. Why is Achieving Successful Transitions for Young People with Disabilities so Important? Jonathan Monk, Young Adults Team, Worcestershire County Council, UK. 2. Transitions and Special Educational Needs. 3. Transitions and Children's Services. 4. Transitions and Personalisation. 5. Transitions and Employment. 6. Transitions and Housing. 7. Transitions and Health. 8. Transitions and Decision Making. 9. Transitions and Carers. Conclusion. Appendix 1: Benefits Table. Appendix 2: Sample One Page Profile.

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Book SynopsisChild Protection and Parents with a Learning Disability provides the practical knowledge that professionals need in order to understand common intellectual disabilities and how they might affect parenting capability. It presents clear guidance on how to carry out effective assessments and explains how interventions might differ when working with parents who have a learning disability. It covers a broad spectrum of disabilities, including borderline conditions and Autism Spectrum Disorder. The book also explores a number of emotional and mental health issues that can occur alongside learning disabilities, such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and attachment disorders, to show how they should be understood in the context of cognitive abilities and the parenting role. Empowering practitioners to make informed decisions about children's welfare, this is a must-have guide for all professionals working with families where a parent is affected by a learning disability.Trade ReviewPenny Morgan's book provides a detailed insight into the lives of parents with learning disabilities, borderline learning disabilities, mental health support needs and autism. It clearly describes these groups of parents' vulnerability, individuality and the complexity of their situations, while also providing workers with an understanding of the types of issues that these parents may well face. A wide range of strategies that workers can use to make their practice more effective and enabling are provided. This book should be read by the wide range of practitioners, including frontline parenting support workers and health professionals as well as child protection professionals, who work with parents so that services are able to respond to the needs of these vulnerable groups of parents. -- Beth Tarleton, Norah Fry Research CentreAn invaluable guide for social workers working with learning disabled parents in the child protection context, providing an in depth analysis as to how learning disability can affect parenting and how best to engage with and find the right support for the client. The book is full of practical tips on how to make learning a positive and non-threatening experience, and how to plan and deliver an appropriate assessment. It also provides a very useful reference tool for the family lawyer tasked with considering whether their client has been assessed fairly and sensitively and given an opportunity to change within an informed and 'managed' framework. -- Abigail Bond, Barrister at St John’s Chambers and Author of 'Care Proceedings and Learning Disabled Parents'Table of ContentsChapter 1: Introduction. Chapter 2: Mild learning disability and how it affects parenting. Chapter 3: Borderline learning disability and parenting. Chapter 4: Mental health and learning disabilities. Chapter 5: Autistic spectrum disorder. Chapter 6: Parenting, emotions and attachment. Chapter 7: The assessment process. Chapter 8: Working with families. Chapter 9: Conclusions.

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Book SynopsisYoung people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) often feel uncomfortable and anxious in social situations, but socializing with classmates and colleagues can be made easier - and more enjoyable - with Guiding Toward Growth group sessions.John Merges' simple yet effective program for teaching social enjoyment skills is based on the concept that there are ten hurdles that make it challenging for people with ASD to enjoy social interaction. This book guides the reader through planning, running, and assessing group sessions that have been designed to help participants overcome these hurdles, interact with confidence, and ultimately enjoy more independent and fulfilling lives. As social interaction is a vital element of any work environment, this book also teaches young adults with ASD an important employment skill.This adaptable book can be used with a wide range of ages and communicative abilities, and will be an invaluable resource for all professionals working with groups of children and young people with ASD.Trade ReviewReaders can refer to the final section of the book for vivid descriptions of the fun activities and even templates for parental permission letters and game boards... He offers novice practitioners helpful tips and ways of conceptualizing working with groups on the spectrum. -- Journal of Autism Developmental DisordersThis book is structured well and easily accessible. The refreshing focus throughout is on supporting young people with autism spectrum disorders to develop the skills needed to enjoy interaction. There is also an emphasis on supporting young people to develop skills that will allow them to function better within the workplace.The information provided would allow an experienced practitioner to set up and run the groups described.This book would be very useful for speech and language therapists working with children with autism spectrum disorders within educational and community settings. -- Speech & Language Therapy in PracticeJohn's work aids people in understanding the barriers that interfere with social interaction and gives people clear, profound ways to improve social functioning. He keeps the 'fun' in functional. -- Janet L. Oliver, M.A., Neurodevelopmental SpecialistJohn Merges has a wealth of knowledge in working with and advocating for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders Students who have attended reported their enjoyment in the social interactions and the friendships that they have developed during the group. Elements of John's strategies can be readily applied and duplicated in the school setting. -- Lynn Peal, Autism Resource Specialist, Mounds View School District, MinnesotaJohn has developed a key for teachers and students to have FUN while learning how to read the map of our complex social world. Bravo! -- Kathy Stuhler, MEd, Autism Specialist and Special Education TeacherThe best thing I have ever done for [my children]... I hope to continue to have them involved for a long time. -- Parent of two Funjoyment group participantsTable of ContentsAcknowledgments. Part I Introduction and Guiding Principles. 1. Beginnings. 2. Enjoyment - A Skill. 3. The Band of Regulation. Part II The Hurdles. 4. Introduction to the Hurdles. 5. Keeping Things the Same. 6. Attention Challenges. 7. Emotional Regulation Problems. 8. Organization Deficits. 9. Language Processing Issues. 10. Associative Thinking. 11. Sensory Sensitivities. 12. "Unlearning" Rituals. 13. Stereotyping by Neurotypical Individuals. 14. Motivational Deficits. Part III FunJoyment Groups. 15. Introduction to FunJoyment Groups. 16. Concepts Important in All Groups. 17. School-Based Groups for Five-, Six-, and Seven-Year-Old Youngsters. 18. School-Based Groups for Seven- through Eleven-Year-Old Youngsters. 19. School-Based Groups for Junior High and High School Students. 20. Notes About Community-Based Groups. 21. Community-Based Groups for Ten- and Eleven-Year-Old Youngsters. 22. Community-Based Groups for Junior High and Senior High Students. 23. Community-Based Groups for Older High Students and Young Adults. Part IV Materials and Activities. 24. Sample Permission Letters. 25. Scoreboard. 26. Activities for Five-, Six- and Seven-Year-Olds. Big Dice. Ask to Play. Charades. Ask for Help. Ask to Share. Interrupting an Adult. Bean Bag Toss. Activities for All Other Groups. A Through Z Game. Apples to Apples. Bean Bag Toss. Bocce Ball. Dominion. First/Last Game. Frisbee. Golf. Imaginiff. In a Pickle. Introductory Questions. Killer Bunnies. Kinder Bunnies. Loaded Questions. Mr. M's Minefield. Mr. M's Uno. Moose in the House. Password. Perudo. Pick It. Pit. Question Cards. Smart Ass. Sort it Out. Tsuro. Turnabout. Twenty Questions. Up the River.

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Book SynopsisDuring adolescence social development and social status among peers is of crucial importance. For teenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) social interaction does not come naturally and often needs to be carefully learned. This workbook provides guided strategies to help those with ASD engage and connect with other people at home, school, work, at social gatherings and in the community.Using a restaurant menu as a template, The Social and Life Skills MeNu guides readers through each step of a conversation with starter statements to initiate conversation, main course topics to convey the purpose of the interaction, and treats that bring the exchange to a close. Packed with questionnaires, discussion logs and hypothetical social scenarios, this workbook encourages students to think through their responses and consider the consequences of what they say and how others might react. By practicing these easy techniques students can improve self-awareness, increase self-confidence and build on their daily life skills.This book will be a life-changing tool for all teenagers and young adults with social cognitive disorders, as well as their parents and the teachers and other professionals who work with them.Trade ReviewIt is a large text format with A4 size paper making it very easy to read and assimilate... Overall this is a useful addition to the other workbooks already available in this area... So for those parents wishing to take the plunge and to start their own small group, this book is worth adding to your collection at the research phase. It is also to be recommended for any therapists and schools who educate and support those on the spectrum. -- AS TeensThis is an excellent practical workbook using an ingenious, informative and entertaining format. -- Tony Attwood, author of Asperger's Syndrome and The Complete Guide to Asperger's SyndromeAn informative and well-designed workbook for teens with Asperger's Syndrome. By combining her personal experience and knowledge of Asperger's, Karra has developed practical and innovative strategies for ASD adolescents to enhance social interactions, while practicing daily life skills. The Social and Life Skills MeNu is an excellent resource. A must-have for parents and professionals. -- Joey Travolta, Creative Director of Inclusion Films, film-making workshops for adults with developmental disabilities, CaliforniaTable of ContentsAuthor's note. What's Inside this Workbook. 1. Menu Scenarios. Prepare to communicate socially. Prepare to communicate socially. Problem-solving social situations. Food for thought. Good social communication details. Lacking social communication details. Appropriately persistent. Overly persistent. Socially aware. Socially unaware. Accepting responsibility in a social setting. Not accepting responsibility. Create your own social scenario dialogue. Chapter 1 summary. 2. Starter MeNu Topics. Project your thoughts, feelings, and ideas appropriately. Project your thoughts, feelings, and ideas appropriately. Topic planning MeNu principles. Practice using the social MeNu. Social scenario setting. Personality test activity. Activity 1: Practice using social MeNu templates. Social situation activity. Social situations. Difficult social situations. Topic planning discussion questions. Chapter 2 summary. 3. MeNu Practicing Topics. Practice your social exchanges with others frequently. Practice your social exchanges with others frequently. Social scenario discussion questions. Chapter 3 summary. 4. Favourites and Special MeNu Topics. Produce an effective level of communication. Produce an effective level of communication. Social conflict discussion questions. Chapter 4 summary. 5. Adding Combinations, Sides, and Specials to Your . Conversation MeNu. Prepare, project, practice, produce. Tips and tricks for social conversations. Movie topic. Sports topic. Computer gaming topic. Chomping at the tidbits. Adding combinations, sides, and specials discussion questions. Chapter 5 summary. 6. MeNu Options. Using social skills with life skills. Using social skills with life skills. Applying social skills to life skills. Doctor's appointment. Dental appointment. Getting ready for school. Haircut. Text messaging and email. Yellow Pages as a resource. Calendar scheduling. Complete and turn homework in on time. Bank transaction. Monthly budget. Market shopping. Preparing dip. Contact local gas and electric company. Laundromat. Wash vehicle. Change smoke detector batteries. Public transportation ticket purchase. Library book return. Restaurant reservation. Restaurant dining conversation. MeNu options discussion questions. Chapter 6 summary. MeNu Templates. Resources.

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Book SynopsisThis book redefines the issue of disability as a social rather than an individual problem and considers the implications of this view for the provision of services and for social work practice. It looks at the experience of people with disabilities in society, and the influence that their organisations have had on service provision. The authors discuss the implications of this in a variety of different settings and across the life cycle.The contributors to this book include disabled people, practitioners, professionals and academics.Trade ReviewEeminently readable. This book should be read by anyone involved in strategic planning in health or the personal social services, as well as fieldwork staff. -- TherapyRedefines the issue of disability as a social rather than an individual problem and considers the implications of this view for the provision of services and for social work practice. -- Disability NewsAn excellent introduction to the culture of social services departments, and how this shapes the provision they make for disabled people. -- British Journal of Learning DisabilitiesOliver's book is an important one for social work practitioners, academics and activists in the disability movement. -- Australian Social WorkRaises a number of pertinent issues and questions for social workers and other professionals working with people with disabilities. -- Special Education PerspectivesTable of ContentsForeword, Tom Clarke. Editorial, Mike Oliver. 1. The social context of disability, Vic Finkelstein. 2. The changing context of social work practice, Bob Sapey and Nadja Hewitt. 3. Disability and new technology, Paul Cornes. 4. Social work practice in traditional settings, Patrick Phelan and Simon Cole. 5. Social work in an organisation of disabled people, Etienne d'Aboville. 6. Housing and independent living, Bernie Fiedler. 7. Social work with disabled children and their families, Philippa Russell. 8. Disabled young people, Michael Hirst, Gillian Parker and Andrew Cozens. 9. Disability in adulthood - the OPCS reports, Paul Abberley. 10. Ageing with a disability, Gerry Zarb.

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Book SynopsisBehavioural Concerns and Autistic Spectrum Disorders: Explanations and Strategies for Change is a practical and comprehensive account of how people who attract autism labels can come to behave in ways that give rise to serious concerns in other people and, sometimes, themselves. The authors identify the range of needs that may be expressed through behaviours that cause concern and provide strategies for addressing both needs and behaviours. These strategies are based on extensive research and on the authors' own clinical experience.Each aspect of need is analysed in detail. General principles for dealing with these needs are presented, and in each case a 'tips and hints' section offers more specific help on possible solutions. Included in the appendices are advice on identifying the factors behind a behaviour that causes concern and guidance on how to ensure that support services are delivering what they should. This is a book that will be essential reading for all those working or living with autistic people.Trade ReviewBehavioral Concerns and Autistic Spectrums Disorders: Explanations and Stratagies for Change is a practical and comprehensive account of how people who attract autism labels can come to behave in ways that give rise to serious concerns in other people and sometimes themselves. The authors identify the range of needs that may be expressed through behaviours that cause concern and provide strategies for addressing both needs and behaviours. Each aspect of need is analysed in detail. General principles for dealing with these needs are presented and in each case a 'tips and hints' section offers more specific help on possible solutions. Included in the appendices are advice on identifying the factors behind a behaviour that causes concern and guidance on how to ensure that support services are delivering what they should. This is a book that will be essential reading for all those working or living with autistic people. -- ContactClements and Zarkowska's book is filled with parental and professional insights that only come from years of experience. The clinical wisdom makes Behavioural Concerns & Autistic Spectrum Disorders: Explainations and Stategies for Change a great addition to the library of anyone interested in Autism Spectrum Disorders. -- Journal of Autism Developmental Disorders.Table of ContentsGeneral introduction. PART 1: PERSPECTIVES UPON THE ISSUES. 1. A view of autism. 2. Beyond autism - understanding human behaviour. PART 2: HELPFUL PRACTICES. 3. Maintaining a safe environment. 4. Understanding. 5. Social relating. 6. Well being. 7. Competence. 8. Obsessions. 9. Sensitivities. 10. Motivation. 11. Responding to behaviour - some additional thoughts. PART 3: MAKING IT HAPPEN. 12. Expectations. 13. Implementation. 14. Service provision issues. Appendix 1: Autism - supporters' help to explore the difficulties. Appendix 2: Identifying factors involved in a behaviour which gives cause for concern. Appendix 3: Constructive behavioural support - service evaluation guide. Resources. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis book is an excellent guide for human resource personnel who can tap unto pool of dedicated workers. Overall this is a good book for persons diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome and high functioning autism to better understand themselves. It is also an educational guide for vocational counselors and human resource personnel as it provides in-dept guidance about these potential dedicated employees.'- OAARSN Book Reviews'This practice manual will enable people diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome and high functioning autism to deepen their self understanding and appreciate their value as working individuals. The workbook contains practical exercises with clear explanations and examples of how to use them... A personal wish list.'- Contact'The text is written in an accessible, non-academic style and provides useful background information on Asperger syndrome and the problems individuals may encounter. It contains a useful bibliography and Internet resource section. Although it is concerned with people with Asperger syndrome, there is much that is relevant to others with cognitive impairments.This text would be a useful purchase for those working in supported employment and for university libraries.'- British Journal of Occupational TherapyThis practical manual will enable people diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome and high functioning autism to deepen their self-understanding and appreciate their value as working individuals. Through step-by-step self-assessment, the reader is encouraged to engage actively in a self-paced exploration of their employment history, and ultimately to identify the work best suited to their personal needs, talents and strengths. The workbook contains practical exercises, with clear explanations and examples of how to use them. It leads the reader to identify and explore:* three jobs they have held in different life periods* their interests, skills and talents, and their application to work* their style of learning and style of work* the social skills required by specific jobs, as identified by other people than the autobiographer* the AS characteristics which further and impede work performance* successful and unsuccessful survival strategies* issues around diagnosis and disclosure which affect life at work and outside it* creative problem solving for the present and the future - a personal wish list.Asperger Syndrome Employment Workbook will also be an essential guide for professionals, career advisors and vocational counsellors as it provides in-depth guidance and research on fulfilling employment for adults and adolescents with Asperger Syndrome and high functioning autism.Table of ContentsForeword, by Tony Attwood. Introduction. PART ONE: THE ISSUES INVOLVED. 1. Three Jobs. 2. Diagnosis, Disclosure and Self Advocacy. 3. Social Skills. 4. Learning and Work Styles. 5. Interests, Skills and Talents. 6. My Work and Asperger Syndrome. 7. Personal Tools and Strategies. 8. My Wish List. PART TWO: WORKBOOK INSTRUCTIONS. Introduction to this Workbook. 1. Three Jobs. 2. Social Skills. 3. Learning and Work Styles. 4. Interests, Skills and Talents. 5. My Work and Asperger Syndrome. 6. Personal Tools and Strategies. 7. Diagnosis, Disclosure and Self-Advocacy. 8. My Wish List. PART THREE: THE WORKBOOK. 1. Three Jobs. 2. Social Skills. 3. Learning and Work Styles. 4. Interests, Skills and Talents. 5. My Work and Asperger Syndrome. 6. Personal Tools and Strategies. 7. Diagnosis, Disclosure and Self-Advocacy. 8. My Wish List. Appendix 1: Asperger Syndrome Characteristics. Appendix 2: Internet Resources. Bibliography. Index.

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Book SynopsisIndividuals with developmental disorders are seven times more likely than other people to come into contact with police and their responses to encounters with the law may not always be socially appropriate. How can the needs and responses of people with autism spectrum disorders be reconciled with the duties of the police to serve and protect the community? In this book, private investigator and autism advocate Dennis Debbaudt provides essential information for both groups. He explains how typical manifestations of autism spectrum disorders, such as running away, unsteadiness, impulsive behavior or failure to respond, may be misunderstood by law enforcement professionals, with serious consequences. For individuals with ASDs, he offers advice on how to behave in encounters with police and other law enforcement professionals. Aimed at raising awareness and facilitating communication between people with autism and law enforcement professionals, this much-needed book will be a valuable resource for both communities.Trade ReviewThe book highlights some important issues that UK police forces will do well to learn from -- The Journal of Adult ProtectionIn this book Dennis Debbaudt provides essential information for both groups. I highly recommend this book specially for the police and mall security people although it is quite useful for the caregivers too. -- OAARSN Book ReviewsTable of ContentsSection 1: The Law Enforcement Perspective. 1. Introduction. 2. Autism Recognition and Response. 3. Interview and Interrogation of Persons with Autism. 4. Victims with Autism 5. Law Enforcement Training Programs. 6. Conclusion. Section 2: The Citizen's Perspective. 7. Introduction. 8. Safety at Home and in the Community. 9. Victim and Law Enforcement Awareness for Persons with Autism and Advocates. 10. Advocacy for Offenders with Autism Spectrum Disorders. 11. Collaborative Autism Awareness Campaigns. 12. Conclusion. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisPeople with developmental disabilities sometimes behave in ways that others, or they themselves, regard as problematic. This original book is about what practitioners can do to make sense of behaviors, in order to support clients more effectively.The author offers practical strategies for gathering and analysing information about behaviors, in partnership with the individual concerned, in order to gain a useful understanding of why a particular behavior occurs. The inclusion of case histories, with corresponding behavior plans, clearly demonstrates the real-life application of assessment methods.With its strong emphasis on the importance of establishing equitable, respectful relationships between professionals and people with learning disabilities, this is a book that professionals involved in the lives of people with developmental disabilities will find invaluable.Table of ContentsPreface. 1. Establishing the assessment agenda. 2. Relationships in assessment: The empathy mode. 3. Relationships in assessment: The analytic mode. 4. The tool box, John Clements and Neil Martin. 5. Extracting meaning from the information gathered. 6. The Behavioural Explorer Assessment System, John Clements and Neil Martin. 7. The stories we can tell. 8. Organizing the practice. 9. Last words. Appendix 1: Behaviour recording charts. Appendix 2: Clements Rapid Assessment Protocol. Resources. Index

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Book SynopsisThis publication will help all service providers to ensure that disabled children and young people with additional support needs can access services and lead a life as part of their local community, focusing on children who have behaviour that challenges as a result of either a severe learning disability and/or autism.Drawing on and including examples of good practice from across the country, Making it work for children with behaviour that challenges illustrates the ways in which all agencies can work together to develop local policies and procedures to ensure that the needs of this group of children are met in a coordinated and child-centred way.Making it work for children with behaviour that challenges is one of two companion publications detailing good practice in both inclusive and specialist settings across education, health, social care and leisure.

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Book SynopsisThis book will increase your confidence in and enhance your understanding of how to engage effectively and ethically with all of the multi-faceted individuals who make our working lives such a privilege.' Claire Johnson, CDI Head of Professional Development and Standards, RCDP and CDI, ICCI and NICEC FellowTransform your career guidance practice to meet the unique needs of all of your clients.The need for specialised career guidance for individuals with an impairment, health condition, learning support need or disabling factor has never been greater. This dedicated guide supports career development professionals to successfully adapt their practice to ensure it is inclusive of people with a variety of needs. Written by two hugely knowledgeable and widely respected authors with considerable expertise in the field of careers guidance and inclusion, this definitive guide offers: Real-world case studies:to demonstrate proven, real-life techniques employed by professionals in their practice and illustrate their methods Actionable insights:with tools, techniques and strategies to help overcome specific challenges, including non-verbal communication and literacy difficulties Professional standards: closely mapped against industry training benchmarks for career professionals Accessibility:written in a clear, engaging and accessible format, it has illustrations throughout to support different learning styles. Drawing on real-world, tried-and-tested techniques, this comprehensive handbook equips career development professionals with the tools they need to provide effective guidance, foster inclusivity and improve accessibility.

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Book SynopsisUniversity should be among the best years of your life but we know moving away from home can be daunting, made even worse if you struggle with your health. This survival guide is designed to be an informal introduction to uni life aimed at students with chronic illnesses or disabilities.

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