Parenting, parenthood: advice, topics and issues Books

Book SynopsisUnderstanding 8-9-Year-Olds describes how children grow and change as they move further away from reliance on home and family, out into the world of school and community.Children of this age develop preferences as well as opinions based on their experience of new relationships and activities. For many children, it is a period of relative calm as they develop through new skills while accumulating knowledge. Biddy Youell looks at the ways in which eight and nine year olds experience their world and highlights some of the difficulties that may hinder their emotional, social or educational development.This accessible book provides valuable insights that will help parents, educators and carers better understand and relate to children during these middle years of childhood.Trade ReviewThe book's strength lies in its clear style and simplicity, and this enable it to be highly attractive to parents seeking to expand their understanding of child development at this transitional stage... The book is a useful starting pointy for those wishing to develop their understanding of child development. It is highly accessible and will appeal to a wide audience. It would be o particular benefit to parents, teachers and other professionals who work with children. -- DebateTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Foreword. Introduction. 1. The Family. 2. Play. 3. Literature and the Eight- and Nine-Year-Old. 4. Worries. 5. Reward and Punishment. Relationships. 7. The Eight- and Nine-Year-Old as Consumer. 8. Summary. References. Helpful Organizations. Index.

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Book SynopsisUnderstanding 10-11-Year-Olds introduces the challenges that face children as they start to make their transition from childhood into adolescence.Children at this age begin to express independence and confidence in their capability that may extend beyond their direct experience. Adults caring for their well-being need to monitor the new dimensions in the child's life, such as competitiveness and its impact on relationships at school and at home. Rebecca Bergese guides the reader through the broad range of emotional and social challenges experienced by children as they are encouraged to take on greater responsibility.This book is essential reading for parents, carers and professionals who are seeking to understand and support a child at this vulnerable stage of development.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements. Foreword. Introduction. 1. Family Life. 2. Changing Families: Bereavements, Separations and Dislocations. 3. Social Life. 4. Changing Body Changing Self. 5. School Life. 6. Hard Time: When Help Is Needed. Helpful Organisations. Recommended Reading. Index.

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Book SynopsisWhile some people look back on school as the 'best days of your life', for others the experience can be unpleasant and gruelling. Learning without School is a practical handbook for parents who want to educate their children at home but are unsure that they have the skills and know-how required to give their child the best education possible.This book explains what home education is; the advantages and disadvantages of choosing this route; how to begin home educating; what you need to do and how to help your child adjust; and how home education affects children's social skills and friendships. It also covers technical aspects, such as the curriculum, core subjects, exams and timetables. Ross Mountney also considers children with 'learning difficulties' or 'special needs' and how to approach home education differently for this group of children.Each chapter contains a summary of key points, useful websites, hints and tips and real-life case studies. This practical guide offers indispensible support for parents who are considering home education for their child, and includes a broad philosophy of education that will interest all parents and professionals involved in education and child welfare.Trade ReviewThe author writes in an engaging, easy to read style, with plenty of first-person stories about home-educated children; evidence is anecdotal rather than research-based... The author writes broadly about the range of personalised learning offered by the home educator; there are brief references to Jung and to Steiner-Waldorf but these are not developed. Useful websites and resources are given at the end of each chapter. -- British Psychological Society, DebateTable of ContentsIntroduction. Chapter 1: What is Home Education and why do people do it? Chapter 2: How do parents start Home Educating? Chapter 3: How do Home Educated children learn? Chapter 4: How do Home Educated children find friends and become socialised? Chapter 5: What about curriculum, subjects and timetables? Chapter 6: What about tests, exams and qualifications? Chapter 7: What is life like for a Home Educating family? Chapter 8: What about children with 'learning difficulties' and 'special needs'? Chapter 9: Where do Home Educated children end up? References. Index.

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Book SynopsisNatural Genius: The Gifts of Asperger's Syndrome is Susan Rubinyi's story of raising her son Ben who has Asperger's Syndrome (AS), and how she has come to view his condition as a blessing. While acknowledging the challenges posed by AS, she emphasizes the extraordinary positives of her son's life and his particular gifts - his photographic memory, perfect pitch and French-English bilingual abilities.Trade ReviewI would strongly recommend this book for its recognition of the extraordinary potential of individuals who are both different and gifted. Throughout the book there are many insights into a strengths-based approach. Thanks are due to Susan Rubinyi, her son Ben Rubinyi and the family for sharing their life so openly. One is richer for knowing one is not alone and there are many doors of achievement for those with natural genius waiting to be opened and walked through. -- Good Autism PracticeA very positive account by the mother of a young man who has Asperger syndrome of his raising and of how she came to regard his condition as a blessing whole acknowledging the challenges it poses to him and others. Rubinyi advocates a strength based approach to bring up a child with AS. -- The British Institute of Learning DisabilitiesNatural Genius: The Gifts of Asperger's Syndrome is Susan Rubinyi's story of raising her son Ben who has Asperger's Syndrome (AS), and how she has come to view his condition as a blessing. While acknowledging the challenges posed by AS, she emphasizes the extraordinary positives of her son's life and his particular gifts - his photographic memory, perfect pitch and French-English bilingual abilities. Her journey with Ben is an enriching and strengthening one of personal transformation. An immensely hopeful and positive book, this should be read by anyone concerned with bringing up a child with Asperger's Syndrome. -- Leicester Review of BooksA scholar of cross-cultural language teaching, women's studies, and science fiction and fantasy, Rubinyi is also the mother of a son with Asperger's Syndrome, and it is the story of raising him that she tells here. She emphasises his particular gifts, including photographic memory, perfect pitch and French-English bilingual abilities. She appends advice for other parents. -- www.booknews.comTable of Contents1. Background.; 2. Berkeley Years.; 3. Residence in France.; 4. Graduate School, Comparative Literature and Women's Lib.; 5. Ben and Cross Cultural Confrontation.; 6. A Bilingual Gifted Child.; 7. Dave and the Beatles Musical Awakening.; 8. Crisis and Returning to LA.; 9. Appreciating LA and its Resources.; 10. Dreams as a Tool in the Re-emergence of the Self.; 11. Life as a Single Parent - A New Beginning.

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Book SynopsisAchieving good behavior and social skills in a child with developmental disabilities can often be very difficult, and methods that improve behavior in other children are often unsuitable or ineffective. Achieving Best Behavior for Children with Developmental Disabilities is an accessible workbook designed specifically for parents of children with developmental disabilities.It offers practical, hands-on advice and step-by-step instructions for drawing up and implementing behavior plans that successfully address and improve challenging behaviors. The book is also full of interactive checklists and activities that help to monitor and assess behaviors and track a child's development. The author also explains the reasons for children's behaviors and gives a wealth of practical advice on how to deal with specific situations, from shopping trips and getting a haircut to dentist appointments and children's birthday parties.Primarily for parents and carers of children with developmental disabilities, this book will also be of use to teachers, school psychologists, occupational therapists, speech/language therapists, social workers and anyone working with children with developmental disabilities.Trade ReviewPamela Lewis clearly has huge experience of working with parents and is sensitive to the issues facing them. The main thrust of the book is on understanding the child but at the same time recognizing that parents can feel very isolated when their child behaves very differently from their peers and does not respond to the usual sanctions of everyday life.I would recommend this book to those supporting parents and to parents and carers of children with complex disabilities. It is a book that is bout understanding, sharing and support. Most of all the book offers possible options for families that could become solutions. -- Educational ReviewThis short book, Achieving the Best Behavior for Children with Developmental Disabilities: A Step-by-Step Workbook for Parents and Carers, covers a wealth of information. The focus is practical, individualized and proactive. The tone is appropriately gentle and supportive. It is clear and directive without either using jargon or belittling the audience by being simplistic. The workbook format is very well-paced and user-friendly, consisting of brief explanatory text followed by thorough, hands-on structured questionnaires. The progression of ideas is logical and simple to follow, without overwhelming the reader. Different bases are covered very systemically and thoroughly, from ruling out medical problems to identifying community supports. References are provided when a more in-depth explanation would be beyond the scope of the book (e.g., regarding problems with sleeping). -- APA Review of BooksThis book is written for parents of children with developmental disabilities, but could be used by all sorts of professionals, such as childminders, pre-school staff, social workers and therapists. It would be an ideal resource for parents and carers to use when preparing a plan together for consistency of care.It's written in a friendly style, with no technical jargon, but clear explanations and examples of different types of behaviour and ways to deal with it. It is written with a very clear emphasis on being positive with your child. There is also a section on finding support as a parent or carer, which is often overlooked but vitally important. It is packed with interactive checklists for parents and carers, activities to do with the children, and lots of strategies to help everyone cope with day-to-day life. I would recommend this excellent book and I give it a score of 10/10. -- The National Childminding OrganisationThis interactive workbook aims to help parents of children with developmental disabilities develop their parenting skills. However, anybody living and/or working with this group of children would benefit from the contents of this book. Parenting children with developmental disabilities can sometimes be a bit daunting, and this book sets out some "basic principles" of managing behaviour and shows readers how to put them into practice. -- YouthInMind.netThis book is well laid out and would be easy to dip in and out of when wanting to find specific information. -- Occupational Therapy JournalIt would be an ideal resource for therapists working with parents/carers who want to break down the process and to encourage their active participation. -- Occupational Therapy JournalTable of Contents1. Introduction. I Starting out. 2. Believe you can. 3. Medical factors. 4. Identify/Create your support network. 5. Overview. II Understand your child's developmental levels. 6. Developmental levels. III Target and define behavior. 7. Go through a typical day. 8. Define the behavior. 9. Agree on a prioritized list of troubling behaviors. IV Functions of behavior. 10. Identify the function of the behavior. V Create a behaviour plan. 11. Antecedents and consequences. 12. Look for patterns. 13. Identify the function of the behavior. 14. Use rewards! 15. Create a behavior plan (1): reducing setting events, communication, structure, and choice. 16. Create a behavior plan (2): rewarding desirable behaviors. 17. Create a behavior plan (3): contingencies for negative behaviors. 18. Summarize your behavior plan. 19. Conclusion. VI Strategies for common challenges. Appendix 1: Reward/reinforcer survey. Appendix 2: Resources for autism and learning disabilities. Index.

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Book SynopsisAnn Boushéy's teenage son Jon was diagnosed with high-functioning autism in kindergarten. Having mastered the day-to-day challenges that parenting a young child with autism or Asperger's Syndrome pose, Talking Teenagers considers questions surrounding parenting across the spectrum during the teenage years.Written out of her own experience, this inspirational book provides the information that will encourage other parents with teens on the autism spectrum. Covering everyday topics, from what to take on vacation and dealing with anger, to sex education and planning for the parents' own demise, Ann ends each chapter with thoughtful vignettes: "Chicken Nuggets for the Soul".After reading this book, parents will come away with a sense of empowerment and feeling that they are not alone, while professionals will gain a valuable and compassionate insight into the world of parenting a teenager on the autism spectrum.Trade ReviewI would strongly recommend this book for parents and/or educators of teenagers on the autistic spectrum. Boushey's style of writing creates a compelling and informative dialogue. The dialogue is in manageable sections covering a substantial number of extremely important issues and seeks to provide inspiring insight into tough questions. Throughout the book there are numerous references to literature and website addresses. -- GAP Good Autism PracticeWritten by a mother as a resource for other parents of young people who have asd. Focuses on everyday topics, problems and tactics. -- BILD - Current Awareness NewsletterThis book gives a wealth of insight to the reader. -- Seen and HeardTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. A parent's heartache-ever present. Chicken nugget #1: HFA or AS? What's the Diff? 2. What do I tell people about autism? Chicken nugget #2: What do we do with the good intentions of others? 3. IEPs and those elusive goals. Chicken nugget #3: Autism and gray. 4. Charting growth. Chicken nugget #4: Living with fear 5. Understanding Jon's way of understanding: Or, Lost in Translation is not just a movie title. Chicken nugget #5: "Sometimes it's all Greek to me too!"-explaining terminology 6. What to take on vacation. Chicken nugget #6: On perseveration-"Stop beating that dead horse!" 7. What about anger? Just because your child has a disability, doesn't make you a doormat! Chicken nugget #7: "I love you, but we are not connected at the hip!" 8. Straight talk for parents: "We need to be like the Energizer Bunny, we must keep going and going…" Chicken nugget #8: Birthday parties-so simple, yet so impossible. 9. An interview with the school counselor. Chicken nugget #9: "Is there a lesson in these socks?"-dealing with tactile issues. 10. A bully by any other name is still a bully. Chicken nugget #10: When parents hit a brick wall in communication. 11. An interview with an expert on autism-Dr. B.J. Freeman. Chicken nugget #11: Literally speaking. 12. Choosing your battles: Fighting the system. Chicken nugget #12: "Get off my back! Please!" -understanding rudeness. 13. An interview with a parent expert-Emily Perl Kingsley. Chicken nugget #13: Stopping to note the successes-a trip to the dentist. 14. Planning for our own demise: an interview with an attorney. Chicken nugget #14: Changing my view. 15. Resources remix: Useful information and resources. Chicken nugget #15: "We must see differently!" 16. Explaining their differences to our teens. Chicken nugget #16: Thoughts on normal. 17. A case for empathy. Chicken nugget #17: "But do I have to fix him?" 18. The s-e-x word meets the a-u-t-i-s-m word. Chicken nugget #18: Waiting for the other shoe to drop-optimistically being pessimistic. 19. Charting behaviours. Chicken nugget #19: Three steps forward, one step back-not the latest dance craze. 20. Family members and autism: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly. Chicken nugget #20: Finding hope at the library. 21. Autism and religion. Chicken nugget #21: Angels by my side. 22. Shadow dancing. Chicken nugget #22: Serendipity-the sauce for those nuggets! Epilogue. References. Subject Index. Author Index.

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Book SynopsisWhen Jan Campito first entered the world of special needs, she trusted the experts to tell her what was wrong, and how to proceed to help her children. Here she was, an articulate, well-educated person, usually confident in navigating whatever situations were required, and yet she became passive and trusting when it came to assuming people would tell her what was wrong with her children's development and what to do to help them. As she realized more and more that no one else was stepping into the lead position to obtain appropriate help for her children, she realized that she needed to take on that responsibility.Since then, she has learnt to take an active role in advocating for her children, and helping meet their needs. From procuring evaluations, to understanding what the diagnoses mean, to selecting therapies and therapists, to following through on therapies at home and targeting needs to be addressed, to helping formulate IEPs, and to monitoring and intervening in their school settings, she has become a comprehensive advocate for her children with special needs, and in this book Jan shares with other parents some of her experiences and some of what she has learnt in the process.Trade ReviewMany parents will recognise the situations she describes and will gain good advice and a feeling of solidarity and empathy. -- Community LivingUsefully, she explains for new parents how to leek out for early signs that things aren't quite right, again drawing on her own experiences of seeing her child struggle to sit up well, demanding constant strong swaddling, rolling rather than crawling, and failing to meet certain developmental milestones. Campito reminds us that there is no sudden notification point, instead, special needs emerge over time.There is also useful detail of how to tackle child misbehaviour, moving from interruption of the behaviour, taking on opportunity to consider the consequences, and reflection on patterns of behaviour. -- Child RightCampito writes with a mother's passion and perseverance, recognizing the strains put on the family and on relationships. Her message that, `the special needs are something your child has. They are not the sum total of your child', resonates throughout the book and repeatedly stresses that her children are just `regular children' with some additional needs. She gives practical advice on coping with emotions as a parent and with coming to terms with the implications of the additional needs. Using her own child as an example, she works through the process of learning about different approaches and interventions and her experience of working with different specialists with conflicting opinions. -- SEN The Journal for Special NeedsParents of children with special needs often feel like they have been dropped in the middle of a dark and deep forest with no knowledge of how to find their way to a clearing. Supportive Parenting: Becoming an Advocate for Your Child With Special Needs is the GPS system that will lead them through the woods, around the pitfalls, over the obstacles, and beyond the fear and confusion. Jan Campito serves as an exceptionally competent guide, leading readers to a complete understanding of the intricacies and nuances surrounding the concerns and challenges society presents to our special needs kids. I wish I had had this book 15 years ago! -- Liane Holliday Willey EdD, author of Pretending to be Normal: Living with Asperger's SyndromeSupportive Parenting is a wonderfully comprehensive and down-to-earth, practical resource that will help parents to traverse the rocky ASD `terrain'. Jan Campito is to be commended for writing an even-handed and very helpful book. -- Diane Twachtman-Cullen, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, Editor-in-Chief, Autism Spectrum QuarterlyTable of ContentsPreface. Acknowledgements. 1. Why This Book? 2. Pre-diagnosis: Is it Normal for Everything to Be So Hard? 3. Obtaining a Formal Evaluation. 4. What Next? What Does This Diagnosis Mean? 5. Beginning Therapeutic Interventions for Your Child. 6. Marcus and Asperger's Syndrome: An Example of How the Manifestation of a Disorder (and One's Parenting Role) Can Change Over Time 7. Your Parenting Role, Part I: Promoting Positive Behavior and Reducing Misbehavior in Your Child. 8. Your Parenting Role, Part II: Increasing Your Child's Competence. 9. The Special Education Process: Formulating an Individualized Education or Family Services Plan. 10. Monitoring the Progress of Your Child. 11. Advocating for Your Child: It Never Ends, Does It? References.

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Book SynopsisKelly Harland's stories explore her son's life to the age of 14, and the new and unexpected universe she and her husband - both professional musicians - must learn to navigate with him.Will's fears, anxieties, and obsessions can dominate daily life, making a trip to the grocery store seem like a walk across a minefield. But amidst these unpredictable "flip-outs" and "freak-outs," there are moments of wonder. When Will finally learns the give and take of conversation, or dreams about his future, it rekindles his mother's belief that anything is possible.Trade ReviewKelly Harland's wonderfully clear, unsentimental and yet moving account of her daily struggles with Will brings a whole new perspective to our understanding [of autism]. Her descriptions of the continually changing hopes and aspirations that she and her husband have for him will have echoes for every parent, especially those of children affected by this complex, multi-faceted condition. -- from the foreword by Jane Asher, President of The National Autistic SocietyPraise for the first edition:'There's a miraculous alchemy to these stories of one small boy.' -- The Seattle TimesA Will of His Own sends a powerful and essentially positive message of hope, learning, and growth... highly recommended reading. -- Midwest Book ReviewThis emotional, warm, interesting and easy to read book will appeal to professionals and parents alike. -- Aukids ManagzineIn "A will of his own" the author's melodic tones capture snapshots of her son from his early days and onwards as he grows and develops into a young man. It's no accident that Kelly is a "musician" as her voice as a writer comes over as a warm and affectionate melody... A slim volume full of delicate, poignant insights but with the strength of powerfully honed reality. -- Whitterer on AutismTable of ContentsForeword by Jane Asher. Introduction: A New "Will". A Different Song. Moonlight. The Shock of the New. Ferryboats. Potter vs. Potter. Into the Pool. Afternoon on the Piazza. Singer. Friends. The Lunchmaker. Big Talk. The King. Escalatorland. Candy. New Voice. Soul Deep. Window. How the King Became the King. I Can't Explain It. Desiree. School Picture. One Dream. Grandma. A Boy Named Colin. Lighting the Candles. Hero. One Dream. Evolution Blues. Over Washington. Willpower. Special Needs Showbiz. A Mountaintop in Nepal. The Broken Leg Diaries.

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Book SynopsisPraise for What is Dyslexia?:'informative, based on the latest research and compassionate - three qualities that make this a must read for parents and children struggling with dyslexia.'- Paul M. Quinlan, Ph.D. from The Curtis Blake CenterPraise for An Introduction to Dyslexia for Parents and Professionals by the same author:'Hultquist writes in such measured, clear and uncluttered prose that no one can take the journey from diagnosis to remediation without feeling that one is in the hands of someone who really understands the issues surrounding a dyslexia diagnosis, not only for the one diagnosed but also for the whole family and the professionals working with them.'- Dyslexia ContactWhat is Dyslexia? is designed to help adults explain dyslexia to children.The author provides information about all the most common types of dyslexia: trouble with sounds, trouble remembering how letters and words look, trouble finding words, and mixed dyslexia. He deals with the basic facts and adopts a style which is accessible to children without talking down to them. The book includes clear examples which children will be able to understand, as well as activities for parents to do with their children. The author emphasises that everyone has strengths and weaknesses and that having dyslexia is okay.This book will be valuable for parents of children with dyslexia, as well as other adults working with children with dyslexia.Trade ReviewThe aim of this book is to provide an explanation of dyslexia and is intended to be read by the parent to the child and be used to discuss the content together after an assessment and diagnosis has been made... the book is informative in an accessible way and with a "common sense" and positive approach throughout... I would recommend this book highly to parents as well as to SENCOs and specialist teachers as it could be a very empowering read for the child as many children are left with unanswered questions for years after a diagnosis has been made, or are even unaware of the fact that a diagnosis has been made. This book would serve well to close that gap and answer those questions. -- British Psychological Society, DebateA simple and effective book with a positive message. -- Home Education Advisory Service BulletinI would definitely recommend this book to a parent whose son or daughter has dyslexia. A good and educational read for both parent and child. -- NAGC MagazineTable of ContentsIntroduction for the Adults: How to Use this Book. Part I: For Kids. 1. Meet Jamie. 2. What Causes Dyslexia? 3. One Kind of Dyslexia: Trouble with Sounds. 4. A Second Kind of Dyslexia: Trouble Remembering How Letters and Words Look. 5. A Third Kind of Dyslexia: Trouble Finding Words. 6. A Fourth Kind of Dyslexia: Mixed Dyslexia. 7. People with Dyslexia are Smart and Courageous. 8. Feelings, Hard Work, and Bullies. 9. The End. Part II: For Kids and Adults. 10. Answers to Questions Kids and Parents Might Ask. 11. Two Activities for Parents and Children to Do Together to Work on Reading and Spelling. Appendix: Professional Organizations, About the Author, About the Illustrator.

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

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Book SynopsisChildren on the Autism Spectrum often grow up to find they are unable to cope effectively with the challenges of adult life. This book shows that, with the appropriate lifelong care from parents and carers, it is possible for those with neurodevelopmental disabilities to achieve supported independence and live fulfilling adult lives.Adults on the Autism Spectrum Leave the Nest provides a guide for parents on how to prepare their children for adulthood, and describes in detail the kinds of services people with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) need in order to live independently, away from the parental home. The author explains the importance of the cognitive abilities that enable us to regulate behaviour and adapt to changing situations, known as Executive Functions, and how an individual's deficits in this area can be especially problematic in the adult world. The book provides approaches to managing Executive Function Deficits and describes an innovative therapeutic program that successfully allows adults with ASDs to live with their peers and develop meaningful adult relationships.This book provides practical and accessible guidance for parents, therapists, people with ASDs, and anyone with an interest in helping people on the Autism Spectrum lead their lives with a sense of dignity and independence.Trade ReviewAs a student, with limited knowledge and experience into ASD, I found the book very accessible and provided a welcoming insight into the disability. Part one: understanding ASD and part 2: Understanding executive functions and ASD provided handy anecdotes to illustrate how deficits in cognitive abilities lead to people with ASD being unable to adapt to changing situations or regulate their behaviour. -- College of Occupational TherapistsIt gives a valuable insight into the world of people with ASD highlighting how their difficulties are often attributed to behaviour and personality. It will help families to understand individuals and direct strategies appropriately... she (Nancy Perry) provides parents a very insightful approach in preparing their children with disabilities for adulthood... This well written book encourages readers with children with ASD to think about their future early on in life. It gives simple jargon free advide to many of the problems faced in the journey to adulthood and helps provide a solid foundation to build upon in the future... gives readers the option of helping people with ASD live successfully out with family homes enjoying satisfying peer relationships. -- The British Journal of Developmental DisabilitiesThe strength of this book lies in its use of many examples from the author's own experience illustrating common difficulties encountered in social interactions and making sense of behaviours through an executive functions deficit model. This book really does speak to parents. It makes a good case for thinking and planning around independence, and encourages parents not to feel guilty should they decide on a residential facility for their adult child. -- Community LivingThis is a book that every parent of every autistic child, adolescent or adult, needs to read. -- Siautism.net... A clearly written presentation addressing the significant challenges faced by adults on the autism spectrum as they attempt to make the transition to independence... -- On the SpectrumPerry thoroughly discusses the importance of teaching self-help skills and domestic responsibilities to children on the autism spectrum before they become adults with more ridged patterns of living and learning. Perry also explains why and how the program creates structure and guidelines to best support adults on the autism spectrum so that they can avoid common pitfalls and live as independently as possible. Peppered with both cautionary tales and success stories, Perry gives a realistic portrayal of what it takes to achieve supported independence as an adult on the autism spectrum. -- The SpectrumTable of ContentsContents: A Message for Parents. Acknowledgements. Preface. Introduction: Real Lives. Part I: Understanding the Autism Spectrum Disabilities. 1. What are Neurodevelopmental Disabilities? 2. Families Living with Disability. Part II: Understanding Executive Functions. 3. Initiation, or Getting Started. 4. Concrete Thinking and Response to Novelty. 5. Planning, Sequencing and Organizing. 6. Attention and Concentration. 7. Regulation of Emotions. 8. A Glance at Memory. 9. Judgment, Self-Awareness and Self Monitoring. Part III: Reaching Adulthood. 10. Preparing for Adulthood. 11. Living with Parents. 12. Living in a Group Home. Part IV: A Model Program of Supported Independence. 13. The Value of Living with Peers. 14. The Structure and Goals of the Program. 15. The Clinical Methods of the Program. 16. Counseling. 17. Specific Methods Employed at CAL. 18. Teamwork with Parents. Appendix I: A New Idea - A Variation on the Model of Group Home Living. Appendix II: Resources. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisWhen a new baby is born into a family, grandparents are excited about having a baby to enjoy and love. If the child is born with a disability, it can be difficult to know how to react and how best to help the child and the family as a whole. This book provides guidance on how to grandparent a child with special needs and give every grandchild the love and care they deserve and parents the added support they need.From coming to terms with a diagnosis, to helping with the transition from adolescence to adulthood, the book gives clear advice on grandparenting a child with special needs throughout their life. The author covers the medical, emotional and practical aspects of being a grandparent and explores important issues such as researching resources for specialized care, accessing financial and legal resources and, just as importantly, how to have fun and spend quality time with a grandchild with a disability. The book also addresses how to handle the diagnosis of a serious accident or progressive illness.Grandparenting a Child with Special Needs is a unique guide for grandparents keen to make a difference to the lives of their children and their grandchildren.Trade ReviewToday, grandparents frequently have to assume a major role in raising their grandchildren. Both parents have to work in many families. The emotional and physical challenge of raising a special needs child becomes the grandparents responsibility. This book presents Dr. Thompson's compassion and insight gained through her lifetime of working with these children and their care-givers. Her guidance will have a positive impact on grandparents as they become a major care-giver in the upbringing of their special needs grandchild. -- James C. Drennan, M.D., Orthopedic surgeon, Author of Orthopedic Management of Neuromuscular Disorders and former CEO of Carrie Tingley Hospital for ChildrenThis unique book, written by a highly experienced and caring pediatrician, addresses the important role of grandparents in raising children who have special needs...Those raising children with special needs, and the involved grandparents helping with those children, will welcome referral to this book, a copy of which might be a useful addition to the waiting room of any pediatrician. -- Kaiser Permanente JournalGrandparents trying to handle a child with special needs will find plenty of tips on how to effectively grandparent with love and care...Public libraries and health collections alike will find this an excellent pick. -- The Midwest Book ReviewTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Introduction. Section I. Support for the Whole Family. 1. Coping with the Diagnosis. 2 Providing Help and Support to Parents. 3. Helping Siblings Cope. 4. Multiple Birth Grandchildren. 5. Parents' Separation and Remarriage. Section II. Grandparents Take Over. 6. Grandparents In Charge. 7. Helping Grandchildren with Dressing and Hygiene. 8. Helping Boost Your Grandchild's Self-Esteem. 9. Handling Social Occasions. 10. Having Fun with a Grandchild. 11. Traveling with a Grandchild. 12. Special Education. 13. Helping a Teen Transition to Adulthood. Section III. Medical and Legal Issues. 14. Finding the Best Medical Care. 15. Special Medical Problems and Treatments. 16. Researching Resources for Specialized Services. 17. Medical Questions and Answers. 18. Handling a Progressive Disease. 19. Legal and Financial Resources. Section IV. You Need Time Too. 20. Time Out for Grandparents. 21. Planning for the Future. Section V. Help from Others. 22. Questionnaire Answers from Parents and Grandparents. Epilogue. Helpful Websites. US Agencies for Children with Special Needs. UK Agencies for Children with Special Needs. US State Resources for Children with Special Needs. State Contacts for High-Risk Insurance .Toll-Free Numbers. Questionnaire for Parents and Grandparents. Notes.

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Book SynopsisThe transition from primary to secondary school is a time of great anxiety for most children. For children with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) this anxiety can be overwhelming. Fear of the unknown, difficulty coping with monumental changes and the inability to imagine a favourable outcome, can all combine to make this unavoidable step in school life a time of great fear and dread. This book provides guidance for schools and parents on how to make the transfer from primary to secondary as easy as possible for children with ASDs.The book advocates the need for scrupulous preparation of transfer arrangements because children with ASDs struggle to predict the outcome of any new situation. No matter how much discussion has taken place, it is only when the situation has been experienced first hand that they will have a real understanding of it and be able to build up a 'real life memory bank' (RLMB). The authors' advice aims to ensure that any preparations lead to a favourable outcome, in order to build a positive RLMB. The book outlines term by term preparation in the final years of primary school and includes photocopiable resources and a "Moving to Secondary School" booklet. As most children with ASDs are visual learners and think in pictures, the booklet uses symbols to aid understanding.Making the Move provides a wealth of effective strategies and resources that will encourage and inspire greater confidence for pupils with ASDs, parents and schools.Trade ReviewThis is a great resource for parents, teachers and other professionals supporting the transition of pupils on the autistic spectrum in their move from primary into secondary education... It is a resource that I would definitely recommend and one that can be dipped in and out of as necessary, should a child be having particular difficulty in understanding a specific aspect of this very significant phase in his/ her education. -- British Journal School of NursingDeserving of ongoing mention for parents, teachers and educators at all levels... An ongoing, top recommendation. -- The Midwest Book ReviewThe transition from primary to secondary school is a major event for most kids, but MAKING THE MOVE is even more important, offering a guide to transfer for pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Checklists for parents and kids alike make this a recommended pick for parents of such students, as its fill-in workbook format offers many useful resources from blank timetables to homework diaries and more to help parents handle such kids. A specific, top pick for any parent of ASD child moving their child through the education system. -- The Midwest Book ReviewTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. Planning the Move.2. Term by Term Planning. 3. Summer Break 4. My Moving to Secondary School. 5. Resources. 6. Sample Social Story: My Secondary School. 7. A Word About Siblings. Index.

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Book SynopsisForget about the baby for just one minute; what about you?New motherhood changes everything. Few women are prepared for the radical shifts in identity, emotional intensity and relations with friends, family and the father of their child. In this fully revised and updated edition of the classic book that first bust the conspiracy of silence surrounding the upheaval of new motherhood, Kate Figes draws on medical and historical research, the invention of 'good' motherhood as well as personal testimony to reassure new mothers everywhere that they are not only normal if they find things difficult, but also doing fine.Trade ReviewThe complete manual of the terrors, exhaustion and passionate emotions of the post-partum existence. A classic * THE TIMES *A sanctuary of revelation about the bafflingly contradictory experience of becoming and being a mother . . . In places I laughed aloud in relieved recognition * Rebecca Abrams, INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY *[I] salute Kate Figes's sensitive book which, admirably, helps redress the balance between the plethora of pregnancy manuals and the ridiculous paucity of advice on how to cope after * Leonie Miller, MAIL ON SUNDAY *

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Book SynopsisMassage techniques are widely and effectively used in treatment of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) to address sensory issues, motor problems and touch receptivity. However, the variety of different styles of massage available often leaves parents baffled and unsure about which touch therapy treatment is best for their child.This practical guide explains how massage works, how the body senses touch, and how touch therapy can benefit children with ASDs. The book goes on to describe exactly what each type of massage entails and covers anatomy-oriented massages, energy-based massages and therapeutic bodywork, helping readers to tell Reiki from reflexology, a Swedish from a sports massage, or tuina from a Thai massage. With recommendations for selecting the right style of massage, advice on locating a practitioner, and tips on preparing a child with an ASD for massage, this book is the perfect resource to find a therapy - or combination of therapies - to suit the individual needs of each child.This book will be essential reading for all parents and caregivers interested in the benefits of therapeutic massage and bodywork for children and adolescents with ASDs, and practitioners looking at alternatives for therapeutic intervention.Trade ReviewHighlighting varied approaches to the science of touch, massage therapist, educator, and author Virginia Cowen provides resources for parents committed to enhancing the health of their children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD)... this recommended guide outlines touch-based massage and non-touch energy work, serving both the ASD community and others with an interest in alternative health options. -- ForeWord ReviewsTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Preface. 1. Introduction. How to Use This Book. 2. Massage and Body Work. Defining Massage. Benefits of Massage. Sensory Processing and Massage. 3. Senses and the Nervous System. Nerves and Actions. Sense. The Special Senses. The Sense of Touch. 4. Sensations and Awareness. Tactile Sensation. Thermoreceptors and Temperature. Mechanoreceptors and Pressure. Nociceptors and Pain. Proprioception. Adaptation. 5. Touch and Communication. Communication, Sensation, and Movement. Sensory Understanding. 6. How Massage and Touch Work. 7. Anatomy-Oriented Massage. Swedish Massage. Sports Massage. Deep Tissue Massage. Orthopedic Massage. Neuromuscular Massage. Myofascial Release. Medical Massage. Craniosacral Therapy. Structural Integration. 8. Energy-Based Bodywork. Reflexology. Polarity Therapy. Traditional Energy-Based Massage. Tuina. Shiatsu. Qi Gong Massage. Thai Massage. Acupressure-Based Bodywork. Jin Shin Jyutsu. Jin Shin Do. AMMA Therapy. Non-Contact Energy Therapies. Therapeutic Touch. Healing Touch. Reiki. 9. Other Styles of Touch-Based Therapeutic Bodywork. Watsu. Feldrenkrais. Hellerwork. Trager Approach. Alexander Technique. 10. Choosing a Style of Massage. Finding a Practitioner. Laws Regulating Massage. Health Insurance Reimbursement. Contraindications and Precautions. 11. Massage for Children: Special Considerations. Preparing the Child for Massage. Information and Consent. Introducing the Child to Massage. Growth and Development. Learning Massage for Parents/Caregivers. Coordinating Massage with the Therapy Team. Tables and Figures. References. Further Reading. Index.

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Book SynopsisJoshua Muggleton knows from personal experience what it is like to grow up feeling like 'a Martian marooned on planet Earth'. Now 22 and studying psychology at the University of St. Andrews, he combines his insights into what it means to have Asperger Syndrome (AS) with his scientific knowledge of the autism spectrum to write an invaluable guide for parents and teachers.Opening with the very basics of what autism is, Joshua covers mental health, sensory issues, obsessions and rituals, friendships and social situations, and shopping, travelling, and holidays, before tackling what is arguably the biggest challenge of any Aspie child's life: school - and with it, bullying, homework, and other challenges. Providing the inside track on Asperger Syndrome in childhood, he describes practical ways in which parents and teachers can help, and offers a wealth of advice and helpful hints and tips for approaching common difficulties.An essential guide for any parent or teacher wishing to understand and help a child with Asperger Syndrome or high-functioning autism, Raising Martians will take them from crash-landing to leaving home.Trade ReviewMuggleton comes across as a very charming, articulate and kind young man who I am sure will give enormous comfort and helpful ideas to any young person on the spectrum. The book is, additionally, the ideal medium for educating parents who are struggling to understand what Aspergers is and how it effects their child or what they can do to help support their child. If you feel your child is giving up and lacks direction or faith in themselves, Muggleton might be the catalyst for change -- asteensMuggleton, in his debut, is particularly well-suited to comment on Asperger Syndrome, since he was diagnosed with it at the age of 15 and is studying to be a psychologist. In concise, logically arranged chapters, he provides a brief history of autistic spectrum disorders and then offers experience-based insight into a number of aspects of AS, including ritual behaviors, problems making friends and dealing with difficult social situations, increased sensitivity to sensory input, bullying, dealing with changes in a normal routine, etc.... Although mostly intended for parents, many teens will also find this to be a very enlightening, often optimistic work on a challenging topic. -- Kirkus ReviewWhen you have read this book from cover to cover, you will know what it feels like to be a Martian who has crash landed on Earth, but you will also appreciate how heroic those people who have Asperger's syndrome are, living in a world that has so many social zealots, who at times appear to be illogical and intolerant of anyone who is different. -- from the Foreword by Tony AttwoodI have been privileged to have known Josh and the family for many years; dipping in and out of their lives as a fellow Autie. Josh explains very clearly and concisely what it means to live on the autism spectrum (AS). His many stories of life encounters take the reader on an unforgettable journey connecting them with the reality of life on the spectrum. This book not only illustrates one life with AS but paints the backdrop to so many others. In doing so it helps to equip its readers with knowledge and the know-how to enable them to walk beside us. Those who read this book will find countless ways to support us and our families, appropriately preventing the circumstances that lead to bullying and mental health distress. Well done Josh...an unforgettable read! -- Dr. Wendy LawsonWritten in an easy, conversational style, this fascinating book is both an illuminating autobiography and a wise and extremely useful insider's guide to growing up with Asperger Syndrome. Comprehensive and detailed, the book is packed full of perceptive insights and practical strategies that can support individuals with AS - through school, college and beyond. Revealing a deep understanding of his own "special interest", Josh writes with disarming honesty, sharing some intensely difficult experiences as well as many happier ones. He gives us a positive message, a practical reference, a sense of hope - and an appreciation of the many special qualities of individuals on the autism spectrum. -- Jude Welton, author of Can I Tell You about Asperger Syndrome?Every parent and indeed everyone who works or lives with children or young people with autism should read this lovely book. No one better understands the condition than someone who actually has a diagnosis and lives with it. In this book Josh manages to link professional theories to his own personal development and gifts us with what he has learnt along the way. In my 30 years of working in the world of autism I have not read a more valuable book and throughout it Josh's humour shines through. It is good to read a book that not only explains the way a person with autism sees the world and the challenges to be faced but also highlights the strengths people with autism have that can, with the right encouragement, enable them to understand themselves. -- Jane Vaughan, Director of Education, The National Autistic SocietyJoshua's book is a highly readable book that covers many of the challenges of life on the autistic spectrum from childhood to early adulthood. Drawing extensively from modern research, and also from his own experience, it manages to be more than just a reference text. Joshua articulates with precision how his disability has impacted on his life. His evaluation of sensory difficulties superbly addresses an area which can be overlooked when considering the needs of a person with autism. I suggest that many young people may also wish to read the book, as it contains a Toolbox specifically designed to overcome the many challenges life presents. This is a young man who deserves our attention. -- Anna Kennedy, Autism CampaignerWhen I started to read the book, I was fascinated and touched by the author's introduction; he had a difficult start in life... The description of depression is something I haven't seen in other books written by young people with AS, so this can be invaluable. Subsequent chapters cover sensory issues and obsessions and rituals, explaining the need for structure and certainty in a world of ambiguity... There is also a chapter with questions and answers, which rounds out an already stellar and impressive book, written with intelligence and compasion by a very likeable young man who has traveled that road before and knows what it's like to feel different-like an alien from Mars. -- Autism Society of Michigan NewsletterJoshua Muggleton... combines his insights into what it means to have Asperger syndrome (AS) with his scientific knowledge of the autism spectrum to write an invaluable guide for parents and teachers... Although Raising Martians is mostly intended for parents, many teenagers will also find it to be a very absorbing, often optimistic work on a challenging topic. This is a book that helps us connect with the autistic child in a new and meaningful way. -- JunoTable of ContentsForeword by Tony Attwood. Introduction: Who Am I? 1. Aspergers Syndrome: Welcome to Mars! 2. Mental Health: Where Normal Isn't a Setting on a Washing Machine. 3. The Five Senses (Plus Two). 4. Stimming, Obsessions, and Rituals: Some of Our More Noticeable Behaviour Explained. 5. Friendships and Social Situations: Your Heaven, Our Hell. 6. Shopping, Travelling and Holidays: Out and About in a Scary World. 7. School: The Survival Guide. 8. Bullying: When Being Different Isn't Cool. 9. Toolbox: Popular Problems and Helpful Hints. Index.

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Book SynopsisChildren and young people with autistic spectrum disorders present many challenges to the people who care for them. 'Difficult' or challenging behaviour is often encountered on a daily basis, and it is easy for both parents and professionals to feel completely overwhelmed by its sheer range and complexity. Where do you start? What happens when, in managing one set of problems, another gets worse? Is there some way to tackle difficulties before they get out of hand, or even before they arise? Practical Behaviour Management Solutions for Children and Teens with Autism answers these questions and provides practical solutions that really work. It offers a complete framework for behaviour intervention which has its roots in prevention and good practice, with an emphasis on promoting and encouraging the development of skills and independence, through Profiling, Prioritizing, Problem analysis, Problem solving and Planning. From identifying behaviour and understanding the root causes, through to planning and implementing a comprehensive intervention programme, this book is packed with practical strategies and expert guidance. While clearly defining the steps you need to take, it also allows for flexibility according to need and individual contexts. Designed specifically for parents and teachers, and complete with photocopiable tools, this book will provide structured yet flexible guidance for all parents and professionals supporting a child or young person on the autism spectrum.Trade Reviewthe book is accessible to both parents and professionals. -- COTSS PLDTable of ContentsIntroduction. 1. Autism and Related Disorders - Understanding Behaviour. 2. In the Green Zone - Building the Foundations of Best Practice. 3. Introducing the 5P Approach. 4. Planning for Intervention. 5. Additional Guidance and Supporting Materials. 6. Staying Green - Additional Practical Strategies for Behaviour Intervention. 7. Where Next? References. Index

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Book SynopsisParenting a severely disruptive child can be exhausting and demoralizing to the point where breaking the cycle of bad behaviour seems an impossible task. Happy Families offers a realistic, step-by-step, practical approach to tackling destructive behaviour that helps parents regain control and establish harmony within the family. Using hands-on techniques based on the principles of non-violent resistance, each chapter deals with a different stage of the process - from communicating to the child an unwavering determination that the situation will change and enlisting the support of family and friends, to taking positive action in a way that avoids escalation. General advice such as how to respond constructively and consistently to provocation is included throughout, and morale-boosting tips encourage flagging parents to persevere with the approach. Happy Families will empower despairing parents and caregivers who seek to contain, counter and positively re-direct the aggression they face from children in distress, resulting in deep-felt and lasting change.Trade ReviewThis short, easy to read book provides a basic step by step guide to the principles and strategies fo this approach, empowering parents to help them feel more in control and effective...Overall, this concise guide may be the perfect solution for families looking for an alternative way to address their child's behaviour. -- Youth in MindIf things were different from how they are, what would I have done? Then, this book might help. How? Firstly because it is brief. If you're in trouble you certainly don't have the leisure time to read some weighty tome. No. You want something that's easy to read, lays out the facts, provides a straightforward approach and a plan of action. Interestingly, to me at least, is the reference to shouting, that basically this is an ineffective technique when it comes to parenting. It's quite a common reference in parenting books and it always amuses me when I read it. 'The authors accept that this approach is not a quick fix. It is a lot more difficult than simply losing your temper and yelling, but it is also much more affective; with patience and determination parental authority can be restored, and with it the harmony of home and family life. -- AutisableHappy Families... proposes a "non-violent resistance" approach that avoids escalation while making it quite clear that silence does not equal acceptance. Through techniques like sit-down strikes and calling everyone in your child's social circle, the approach allows parents to confront dangerous behavior without turning up the emotional volume or allowing the child to be in control. This process that requires a lot of patience, perseverance, and daring from parents who may be feeling embattled and overwhelmed themselves, but this slim guidebook does a good job in presenting the steps in a simple and straightforward way. You can read it quickly and start to think about how you'd put it into action. -- Terri Mauro - About.comTable of ContentsIntroduction: What is Non-Violent Resistance? 1. Avoiding Escalation. 2. The Declaration or Statement of Intent. 3. The Sit-In. 4. Going Public. 5. Telephone Rounds. 6. Linking. 7. The Sit-Down Strike. 8. Refusing Orders. 9. Reconciliation. 10. Summary: Empowerment and Readiness. Case Study. Non-Violent Resistance in Practice.

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Book SynopsisChildren and teenagers text, network and twitter online as second nature, but when emails or texts are used to threaten, harass, intimidate or embarrass someone, they can turn from being a source of enjoyment to a source of crippling anxiety and fear. This approachable book is packed with advice, games and activities for groups and individuals to help young people understand what cyberbullying is, how they should behave online and how they can stay safe. The activities range from quizzes and competitions to storyboard games and art activities, and cover issues such as how easily personal information can be forwarded, the risks posed by unknown 'friends' on social networking sites, and how to discuss and deal with bullying issues. They are designed to encourage young people to think about their own behaviour and attitudes and give them the skills and knowledge to stay safe in a digital world. Particularly suited to children and teens aged 11+, this essential book will be an invaluable resource for parents, teachers, youth workers, and anyone working with young people who could be exposed to cyberbullying.Trade ReviewTeacher and youth-worker Rogers has compiled an excellent primer for adults to use with young people in understanding and evaluating the risks of various online behaviors... She gives excellent activities to do with children and young adults to help them understand the issues involved and launch poignant discussions among peers, such as providing various profiles of people and having the group evaluate the appropriateness of adding this person to their network of contacts. Any adult who works with young people would be wise to implement these activities, probably as early as age ten. Highly and unequivocally recommended. -- Library JournalThis is an informative book that once dipped into makes it fell like an essential read. Described as a valuable resource particularly to people working with children and teens, it soon becomes apparent that it would be useful for all parents. It is packed with practical exercises that explore different hypothetical scenarios; how to deal with all kinds of cyberbullying and how to deal with being the bully. It is punchy and inventive helping young people face this issue without being alarmist. I found some of the cyberbullying examples mirror recent cases in the press and this makes it very real. -- Families South WestThis is a useful little book which largely consists of exercises to facilitate discussion or thought about the use of internet. Although the title is cyberbullying, the exercises are broader and look at safety as well as bullying. The exercises are set up for groups and, as such, are most likely to be useful in schools, youth groups or similar. However, with some thought they could be adapted and used with individual young people. -- Youth in MindThis booklet has a range of very useful practical activities to be used with young people to raise their awareness of cyberbullying and how to stay safe online. The issues are clearly outlined in the introduction, with short explanations of how a range of media from mobile phones to chat rooms and websites can be exploited in different ways by the cyberbully... The activities, with their accompanying worksheets, are simple yet effective and well thought out, and sure to provoke good discussion. -- SLA- School Librarian JournalThis approachable book is packed with advice, games and activities for groups and individuals to help young people understand what cyberbullying is, how they should behave online and how they can stay safe. The activities range from quizzes and competitions to storyboard games and art activities. Cyber bullying covers issues such as how easily personal information can be forwarded, the risks posed by unknown 'friends' on social networking sites, and how to discuss and deal with bullying issues. They are designed to encourage young people to think about their own behaviour and attitudes and give them the skills and knowledge to stay safe in a digital world.` -- Fostering NewsletterCyberbullying is a valuable resource. These interventions will help youth make safe decisions in the digital world. The activities are clearly described and will involve young people. Highly recommended! -- Stan Davis, founder of Stop Bullying Now!, bullying consultant and author of Schools Where Everyone Belongs: Practical Strategies to Reduce BullyingSome of the students at Red Balloon, a charity that recovers severely bullied children, have been so frightened by unwanted internet and mobile intrusion that they have been unable to attend school. Helping young people take responsibility for their own behaviour and appreciate the dangers of digital communication and social networking, while at the same time giving them the skills and knowledge to stay safe, is of the utmost importance in the 21st Century. This book, which deals so thoroughly with the issue of cyberbullying, does just that. -- Carrie Herbert, Chief Executive, Red Balloon Learner Centre Group, UKVanessa Roger’s book provides a way for parents and children to start tackling the realities of the cyber world and its newest travesty: cyberbullying. Her overview makes cyberbullying a topic that parents and educators can speak with their children about and begin the process of making it more manageable. -- Dr Joel D. Haber , PhD, "The Bully Coach", clinical psychologist and author of 'Bullyproof Your Child For Life'I found this book to be very insightful and necessary... It is important that all parents are aware of the warning signs and know how to handle this issue should it be happening to their son or daughter... This book is a must read. -- Teri Schroeder, Chief Executive Officer, i-Safe Inc, USAThis book includes numerous exercises that provide adults with strategies to discuss issues of cyberbullying and online safety in a fun and engaging way. Parents and teachers alike will appreciate the variety of activities and quizzes, [and] the thought-provoking discussions that result from these efforts will be invaluable. The activities…will serve an important purpose within a comprehensive cyberbullying prevention strategy at school or at home. -- Justin W. Patchin, Ph.D., Co-Director, Cyberbullying Research Center, USA and co-author of Bullying Beyond the Schoolyard: Preventing and Responding to CyberbullyingThis is another surefire winner from Vanessa Rogers... [It] will make an invaluable addition to the youth worker's armoury'. -- Andy Hopkinson, National Youth Agency, UKCyberbullying helps to head off dangerous encounters online and is suitable for parents of children and teens and adults working with young people in youth clubs or school. A good reference book for a public, school, or home library, it is written in easy-to-understand language, with helpful examples of situations that can arise and positive, safe ways to deal with them. -- ForeWord ReviewsTable of ContentsIntroduction. Understanding Cyberbulling. What is different about Cyberbullying? Cyberbullying Methods. Different Forms of Cyberbullying. Key Advice. Online Protocols. Ways to Talk about Cyberbullying. Warm ups. Digital Technology Warm up. Cyberbully Bag. Online Acronym Quiz. Cyberbullying: Agree or Disagree. Online Behaviour. Add a Friend. Pass it on. Online Pictures. Activities. What is Cyberbullying? Online Community. Internet Safety Profile. Online Storyboard. Key Words. Dear Aunt Cyber. Reasons Not to Tell. Cyber Quiz. Online Friends. Private or Personal? Say What you Mean! Social Networking Today: Interview Tomorrow! How I feel. Cyber Court. Reviews. Review Board. Think, Feel, Do. Evaluation Tags. Cyber Posters. Useful Websites.

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

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

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Book SynopsisIf you have a child with Asperger's syndrome (AS) or high-functioning autism, conventional parenting principles will often prove insufficient and unproductive. This intelligent companion has all the answers, explanations and advice to enable parents to feel confident in providing effective support for their child with AS or high-functioning autism. The author explains how to help develop social and communication skills, clarifies the type of assistance needed from outside the family (and where to find it), and includes suggestions on how to ensure that the needs of other siblings are also met.Written from the insightful perspective of a child psychiatrist, this very practical book will provide concrete help for parents and carers. The experience and expertise shared will also be useful for all professionals working with children with AS or high-functioning autism and their families.Trade ReviewTargeting the parents of children diagnosed with autism spectrum (AS) and high-functioning autism, Yoshida (How To Be Yourself in a World That's Different: An Asperger Syndrome Guide for Adolescents) has developed a caring and compassionate guide for parents new to autism spectrum disorders (ASD).... An extremely valuable Q&A section titled "Helping Daily Life Run Smoothly" provides answers to some of the most common questions parents have about their newly diagnosed child.... Yoshida's calm, kind tone will be comforting to parents of children recently diagnosed with ASD.... A valuable addition to any autism collection. -- Library Journal Reviews“Throughout this book, the author's aim is to write in a way that parents of children with autistic conditions can understand and she succeeds brilliantly. [...] A beautifully clear and simple, but detailed translation that parents of children with autistic conditions will find enormously helpful and comforting.” -- From the foreword by Dr Lorna Wing, Consultant to the NAS Lorna Wing Centre for AutismYuko Yoshida's book was developed for parents in Japan to assist them in understanding children with autistic spectrum conditions particularly in relation to young children (infancy to early elementary) who are described to have high-functioning autism (HFA) or Asperger's Syndrome. The book was also developed to support teachers in a range of educational settings where the author was aiming to provide a range of useful ideas and strategies... Yuko has a lovely gentle but practical approach to a difficult area where she is obviously determined to empower parents... Yuko provides a clear and simple introduction to the world of developmental difficulties, the screening process and labelling...interesting and realistic examples of children's behaviour to assist in understanding the autistic spectrum; she provides a lot of detail and insight into the triad of impairments and other significant issues but highlights the importance of quality of life rather than high IQ. In addition, several other developmental disorders and medical issues are summarised.... She emphasizes the importance of: understanding autism and early intervention; planning long term goals; and the issue that each child is different... This style of presentation is powerful and again very useful detail and guidance for parents and professionals in developing further understanding about autism is provided... This is a useful book for both trainee Educational Psychologists and Educational Psychologists in supporting them to develop further understanding about the autistic spectrum in addition to providing a useful resource to discuss with parents. Insights into the way a different culture understand autism and child development are also very insightful. -- Dr Laura Cockburn Specialist Educational Psychologist Lorna Wing Centre Manager,The National Autistic Society * Debate - British Psychological Society *Table of ContentsForeword by Lorna Wing. Introduction. 1. What is Autism? I. “Disability” – or “Individuality”? II. The Autism Spectrum. III. Other Medical Information. IV. Disorders Similar to or Comorbid with ASDs. 2. Rethinking Your Parenting Style. I. Nurturing Communication Skills. II. How to Provide Supports for Impairments of Social Imagination. III. Skills That Compensate for Impaired Socialization. IV. Helping Daily Life Run Smoothly (12 Q & A). 3. The Way Forward. I. Find Someone You Can Consult. II. If There Are Siblings. III. Some Final Advice. Afterword. Appendix 1. Overview of Technical Terminology and Diagnostic Criteria. Appendix 2. Communicating with Your Child's Kindergarten or Day Care Centre. A Handy Reference to the Supports Described in This Book. Bibliography.

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

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Book SynopsisIf your child rarely shows you that he or she loves you, it can be profoundly distressing. This is the experience of many parents of children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and most fear that it reflects the truth. In fact the truth has generally more to do with the difficulty that young people with an ASD have in communicating like or love for someone physically and verbally. They may not know how to go about expressing themselves in these ways, or understand that family members and friends can find the absence of demonstrative affection upsetting.This book, by world leading experts Tony Attwood and Michelle Garnett, addresses this issue in practical terms. They provide carefully designed activities for parents to work through with their children to help them to understand and express affection. Their child will learn to identify his or her own and others' comfort and enjoyment range for gestures, actions and words of affection and the different ways to express feelings for someone, appropriate to each relationship and situation. The activities are simple, straightforward, and very carefully structured, so that they can be undertaken at the pace that works for the individual family. The book also guides the adult through the challenges faced by the child, leading to greater understanding and confidence in their relationship with their child, and increased ability to nurture the child's ability to form engaged relationships and friendships with others.Readers of Tony Attwood's previous books will recognise his warm, positive and empowering approach. The book will be a transformative resource for parents and family worried about their child's emotional life.Trade ReviewThis book is clear, concise and practical... in other words, it is a parent's dream. The book gives us usable information in a blessedly short book. I recommend this book for parents, caregivers, and teachers. Tony is one of the world's most empathic and creative experts on those individuals on the higher end of the autism spectrum. Michelle's work is already known in Australia, and she is a rising global star. -- Susan Moreno, founder and president of MAAP Services, Inc., editor of The MAAP and author of The Partner's Guide to Asperger Syndrome and More Cognitively Advance Individuals with Autism Spectrum DisordersTo me as a parent, this book is a godsend – clear, logical, easy to read and above all useful! It addresses a fundamental problem which is of concern to many parents – How can we, in practical terms, help our children learn to express and communicate their emotions, especially when they reach their teenage years and beyond? Grounded on a solid base of expertise, experience and compassionate understanding, the authors offer a clear, insightful structured solution. The sessions described in the book are easy to understand and equally easy to implement. They will go a long way to help our young people with Asperger's syndrome (autism spectrum disorder) understand the “rules of the game” and thereby achieve a more level playing field. -- Brenda Boyd, author of Parenting a Child with Asperger Syndrome, Parenting a Teen or Young Adult with Asperger Syndrome (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and Appreciating Asperger SyndromeSome of the most basic factors determining an individual's placement on the autism spectrum are difficulty in identifying and correctly responding to cues in social situations, along with struggles with reading and expressing emotion. These are also among the most challenging aspects of life to teach a person. Coauthors Attwood (The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome; Asperger's Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals) and Garnett (founder & director, Minds & Hearts) are both clinical psychologists based in Australia with decades of experience with people on the spectrum. Here, they showcase a series of activities and worksheets that parents can use to assist their children in understanding and expressing affection. VERDICT Through storytelling, the authors describe social situations to depict different phases of affection. This easy-to-read book is good for use with a wide range of individuals and is recommended for parents and professionals alike. -- Library JournalTable of ContentsPart 1. Introduction. 1.1. Why children and adolescents who have Asperger's syndrome (autism spectrum disorder) need a programme to understand and express affection. 1.2. Aims of the programme. 1.3. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. Part 2. How the programme works. 2.4. Assessing the ability to communicate affection. 2.5. How to conduct the sessions. 2.6. Activities for each session. 2.7. Overviews of the sessions. Part 3. Sessions. Session 1. Session 2. Session 3. Session 4. Session 5. Recommended resources. References. Appendix. Affection Questionnaires.

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Book SynopsisWhen your child has OCD your world can turn upside down and inside out. Claire Sanders has been managing her son's severe OCD for more than 8 years and, although there are no quick fixes, she has learnt a few tips along the way. These cover what is involved in getting a diagnosis, what to expect in therapy, how to cope with panic attacks, how it might affect the rest of your family and how you might feel as a parent. She talks with honesty and humour about these and many other aspects of her son's illness providing practical advice and insight from one parent to another. This is a must-read for any parent or carer who has a child with OCD. It is the equivalent of a comforting chat with a friend who has been through it all before and can reassure you that you are not alone.Trade ReviewOCD not only affects the person with the condition, but also the people who are emotionally close to the sufferer. In this book, Claire Sanders provides an excellent overview of the nature and treatments for OCD, before focusing on OCD's interpersonal impact and what parents can do to help their families survive. If you have a child with OCD, this book is for you. -- Jonathan S. Abramowitz, PhD, Professor and Associate Chair of Psychology, University of North Carolina at Chapel HillI wish I'd had this book when my son was a teenager and we were trying to figure out how to help him with his OCD. It's funny, honest and real, and explains both how OCD works as well as how a parent could cope with it in a way that was actually entertaining. A great book. -- Kerry Knight, motherAccessible yet not simplistic, informative but never overwhelming, entertaining without ever denying the seriousness of its subject matter, Sanders' book sheds light on the unexpected ways in which a family can be affected by a diagnosis of OCD. The fact that it's a must read for anyone who is in any way involved with this condition absolutely goes without saying. -- Dariush Alavi, Children with Special Needs Specialist TeacherA well written book about the struggles of living with a child who suffers with OCD. -- Senior Support Worker, Child and Adolescent Mental Health ServicesAn extremely heart-felt honest, powerful account of having a child with OCD that will give some direct, helpful advice to parents who have a child with OCD. -- Senior Nurse Practitioner, Child and Adolescent Mental Health ServicesAs clinicians dealing frequently with OCD, we never cease to be struck by the massive impact of the disorder on families.This book presents a first-hand account of the facts and challenges that a parent of a child with OCD may encounter in a refreshing, down to earth and humorous style. It is a "must-read" for parents and clinicians interested in gaining a deeper insight into the challenges that families encounter when children suffer with OCD. -- Dr Bruce Clark, Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, and Dr Tolulope Olowe, Specialist Trainee in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, National Specialist OCD Clinic, Maudsley Hospital, LondonNot just parents will benefit from the advice set out in 'Parenting OCD'. If you are a teacher, health care professional or just an interested spectator, then you too will gain invaluable knowledge of this brutal condition from a first-hand perspective... -- In Our Hands blogTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. About the Book. Introduction. 1. OCD Warning Signs and Getting a Diagnosis. 2. Therapy - Different Types, What Happens in Therapy and Beyond. 3. Medication. 4. When Initial Treatments Don't Help. 5. School - Educating the Educators. 6. The Changing Nature of OCD. 7. Tears, Tantrums and Other Outbursts. 8. The Rest of the Family. 9. Things I've Learned to Help Me Cope. 10. Common and Not so Common Obsessions. 11. Related Conditions - Other Nasties in OCD's Gang.

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Book SynopsisAnswering all of the key questions about the kindergarten experience, this compact guide will give parents the confidence to be the most effective, up-to-speed advocates as their child enters formal education."Which school should I choose, or should I home-school?""How can I prepare my child for kindergarten?""How can I work with teachers?" "What services and support will my child need?""What is an Individualized Education Program (IEP)?" In a warm, parent-to-parent style, Margaret Oliver explains the essentials of how the educational system is structured, how special education laws are applied, and what current educational trends mean for individual children. She also gives strategies to overcome sensory, behavioral, social, emotional and communication difficulties.Trade ReviewKindergarten can be confusing and overwhelming for both parent and child. This guide provides the invaluable information and reassurance needed to facilitate successful integration of children who have an ASD into the foundation year of the educational system. The advice is wise and will be appreciated by all family members as well as Kindergarten teachers. -- Tony Attwood, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist, Minds & Hearts Clinic, Australia and author of The Complete Guide to Asperger’s SyndromeNervous about meeting other families? Concerned about the IEP process? Worried about your child's academic needs? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you need this book! These topics and so many more are covered in depth in this comprehensive guide to the first year of school. This user-friendly text is filled with tips, information and tools that will help you choose a setting, advocate for support and build an effective home-school partnership. -- Paula Kluth, Ph.D., author of You’re Going to Love This Kid: Teaching Students with Autism in the Inclusive ClassroomTable of ContentsAcknowledgements. Introduction. Transition to Kindergarten. The Purpose of this Book. How to Use this Book. 1. Kindergarten Transition and Placement. 1.1. The Choice of "Where". 1.2. Transition Plan. 2. Parent/Teacher Communication. 2.1. Communication is Key. 2.2. Communication Traits. 2.3. Communication Guidelines. 2.4. Making the Plan. 3. The Individualized Education Program (IEP). 3.1. Structure of an IEP. 3.2. The Thoughtful IEP. 3.3. Creating the IEP. 3.4. Implementing the IEP. 3.5. The Supportive IEP. 4. Academics. 4.1. The Subjects. 4.2. Assessments. 4.3. Interventions. 4.4. Influence of Cognitive Theories. 4.5. Learn a Mile in your Child's Shoes. 4.6. Terminology. 5. Cognitive Theories. 5.1. Executive Function. 5.2. Theory of Mind. 5.3. Central Coherence. 5.4. Building on your Knowledge. 6. Communication and ASD. 6.1. Connecting through Conversation. 6.2. Speech-Language Therapist's Role. 6.3. Communication at School. 6.4. Communication's Role in Learning. 6.5. Paving the Way. 7. Social and Emotional Growth. 7.1. Flexible Friendships. 7.2. Supporting Social Skills. 7.3. Teaching Emotions. 7.4. A Positive Impact. 8. Behavior and Sensory Support. 8.1. Behavior and Sensory Defined. 8.2. Where to Begin. 8.3. Ways to Accommodate. 8.4. Ways to Teach. 8.5. Planning for Independence. 9. Looking to the Future. 9.1. Two Transitions. 9.2. Everyone's Working Harder. 9.3. Advocate today for Independence Tomorrow. Practical Tools. References. Further Reading. Helpful Websites. Index.

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Book SynopsisWhy does your toddler get upset when his or her routine is disrupted? Why do they follow you from room to room and refuse to play on their own? Why are daily routines such as mealtimes, bath time, and bed time such a struggle? This accessible guide demystifies the difficult behaviors of anxious toddlers, offering tried-and-tested practical solutions to common parenting dilemmas. Each chapter begins with a real life example, clearly illustrating the behavior from the parent's and the toddler's perspective. Once the toddler's anxious behavior has been demystified and explained, new and effective parenting approaches are introduced to help parents tackle everyday difficulties and build up their child's resilience, independence, and coping mechanisms. Common difficulties with bath time, toileting, sleep, eating, transitions, social anxiety, separation anxiety, and sensory issues are solved, along with specific fears and phobias, and more extreme behaviors such as skin picking and hair pulling. A must-read for all parents of anxious toddlers, as well as for the professionals involved in supporting them.Trade ReviewA wonderful resource for families and therapists. Natasha has broken down anxiety into a variety of shapes and sizes to assist parents in understanding what it can look like. She has given the child a voice to offer different perspectives. In the end it comes down to what can I, as a parent, do to make this easier for my child. This book offers an abundance of possible ways to help your child manage anxiety. -- Sandie Miller, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Private PracticeNatasha provides sound advice and methods that work. Our family has gained sanity in a world that, before receiving her help, was out of control. So many situations in this book described our anxious child exactly and it has become a favorite reference. I feel as though I have someone in my corner who understands the daily struggles of being a parent to an anxious child and is there to help. -- Caren Valls, mother of twoI love this book! It covers an extremely wide range of issues that may present in the anxious toddler... Each chapter begins with a vignette that gives voice to the toddler as well as the parent. Many chapters provide "scripts" for parents to use or adapt. After 33 years as a developmental and behavioral pediatrician, even I learned new things, but, as the author states, no one is perfect. -- Daniel B. Kessler MD, FAAP, Developmental and Behavioral PediatricianOne of the hardest things about parenting a child with anxiety is a feeling of isolation - when all the "handy tips" and parenting advice is working for other children but not solving issues for your own, where do you turn?This book is quite literally a companion for the journey. Practical advice - explanations that make you sigh with relief at the recognition that you aren't alone and can help your child feel safer in the world. -- Sensory SmartThis book is written by a well qualified and experienced American Child Therapist, Natasha Daniels, who is also a mum of three... The book, aimed at parents, carers and professionals, (...) a very accessible read, divided into chapters tackling common difficulties. It's a very instructive and enjoyable read and I have been happily recommending it. -- Elizabeth Cox, Early Years, SEN Teacher * AuKids Magazine *Table of ContentsIntroduction: What Does an Anxious Toddler Look Like? 1. Routine, Rigidity and Egg Shells! 2. Meltdowns. 3. Mealtime Struggles. 4. Bedtime Disasters. 5. Bathroom Battles. 6. Bath Time Fights. 7. Fears and Phobias. 8. Playtime and Social Anxiety. 9. Anxious Parenting and Fostering Independence. 10. Separation Anxiety. 11. What are Sensory Issues? 12. Extreme Behaviors. Conclusion: Looking into the Future.

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Book SynopsisPresenting a revolutionary lifestyle approach for the whole family, this step-by-step guide will help you to reduce your child's stress and anxiety levels by regulating their environment, eating and nutrition, energy, and encouraging emotional self-regulation.Children with autism often experience very high stress levels in learning and social environments, which can exacerbate problem behaviors and damage their physical and emotional health. This book demonstrates that lowering stress levels through regulating a child's experiences and environments, and giving them the tools to cope when stressful situations are unavoidable, can make a huge and very positive difference to their behavior, physical health, socialisation and happiness. Brimming with exercises, recipes, tips and real-life examples, this warm and supportive guide will help you transform the life of your child with autism and benefit the whole family.Trade ReviewAutism and the Stress Effect is a welcome book that distills much of the information about the internal noise of stress, pain or perhaps the chemical effects of a terrible diet and delivers a useful and digestible guide for our autism community to use to improve the care and nurturing of our children. -- Timothy Buie MD, Director of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Lurie Center for Autism, Massachusetts General Hospital for ChildrenTable of ContentsPart One. Introduction. Introduction to Autism and The Stress Effect. 1. A New Way Foreword. 2. Decades of Cumulative Knowledge. 3. Autism and The Stress Effect. Part Two. A Word About Regulating. 4. Environmental Regulation. 5. Eating and Nutritional Regulation. Co-written by Jennifer Frank, R.D. 6. Emotional Self-Regulation. Co-written by Johanna Lantz, Ph.D. 7. Energy Regulation. Co-written by John Ratey, M.D. and Nicole Kinney, D.P.T. 8. What to Track. 9. Where to Begin. Epilogue. About the Center for Discovery. Appendices.

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Book SynopsisConcise and accessible, this plain English guide will help parents and educators to understand and support children with executive function difficulties at home and in the classroom. The author describes the cognitive processes that make up the executive functions, including attention, behavioral inhibition, theory of mind, organizational skills, time management, planning, decision-making, and self-talk. Using real examples, she describes how difficulties in each of these areas may manifest, and offers practical hints, tips, and accommodations for supporting children both in and out of school. Containing a wealth of helpful information as well as tried-and-tested strategies, this is the perfect primer for parents and educators of children with executive function difficulties.Trade ReviewRebecca has the unique ability to blend her experiences as teacher, advocate, and parent to provide straightforward, sensible examples to assist educators and parents alike. Students with executive functioning challenges are usually exasperating to understand and help. This book breaks down the common roadblocks to organization; offers respectful observations as to why the student struggles; and ultimately offers multiple ideas of compassionate alternatives to help the student attain success. -- Mary Limbacher, founder and executive director, Parents in Toto Autism Resource CenterExecutive Function "Dysfunction" is packed with real-world examples of executive functioning deficits and multiple strategies to overcome them. A must-read book for all educators (and parents) who work with students with organizational, attention, and theory of mind difficulties. This book is straight-forward, easy to read, and loaded with specific, relevant strategies that can be used immediately in the classroom or at home. -- Lisabeth Watson, founder and chief executive officer, AEP ConnectionsAn extremely valuable and user-friendly guide for parents and teachers to understand, educate, and best support children with executive function impairments. Rebecca Moyes shares her considerable knowledge and experience in helping students with disabilities to achieve school success. This book clearly describes and illustrates the challenges of executive dysfunction, as well as providing effective strategies, lesson plans and expert advice. -- Sandra F. Rief, M.A., author of How to Reach & Teach Children with ADD/ADHD and The ADD/ADHD Checklist: A Practical Reference for Parents & TeachersTable of Contents1. When Interventions Don't Work. 2. What Are Executive Functions? 3. Behavioral Inhibition. 4. Behavioral Inhibition Continued - Perseveration and Shifting. 5. Theory of Mind. 6. Working Memory. 7. Organizational Skills, Time Management, Planning and Decision-Making. 8. Initiation and Motivation. 9. Self-Talk and Emotional Supports. 10. Attention. Conclusion. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisParenting a child with autism can be isolating, draining, and stressful. Parenting a neurotypical child alongside them is even more complicated and confusing. Coach Yourself through the Autism Spectrum offers an opportunity to access your inner creativity, resourcefulness, strengths, and abilities in order to create positive change in your family. Short sections on common problems such as visits to the doctor, community outings, bullying and child care make this book easy to read from start to finish, or dip into as needed. There are tips for taking care of your own physical and emotional health, and each section features relevant examples from other families in the same situation, and practical and thought-provoking coaching exercises to help you decide on an action plan that's right for you. This book offers hope and support for anyone parenting or caring for a child on the autism spectrum.Table of ContentsSection I: Parenting Children with Autism. Chapter 1. Meltdowns. Chapter 2. Outings. Chapter 3. Childcare. Chapter 4. Doctor Visits. Chapter 5. “Invisible” Autism – the Unique Isolation of “High Functioning”. Chapter 6. Parenting Your Child's Strengths (Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Chapter 7. Educational Decisions. Chapter 8. Sleeplessness. Chapter 9. Extended Family. Chapter 10. Bullying. Chapter 11. Stuck Spots. Section II: Parenting Neurotypical Siblings. Chapter 12. Asymmetrical Development. Chapter 13. “Autism-Free” Zones. Chapter 14. Parenting Your Child's Strengths (Neurotypical Children) Chapter 15. Fairness. Chapter 16. Message from a Grown Sibling. Positive Outcomes. Section III: Parent-Care and Long-Term Health. Chapter 17. Comparison. Chapter 18. Finding Your Parent-Strengths. Chapter 19. Parent Care. Chapter 20. What Fills your Tank? Chapter 21. “I'm a Dad, What Can I Do?” Chapter 22. Marriage Building. Chapter 23. For Husbands. Chapter 24. Single Parenting. Chapter 25. Laugh a Little. Appendix 1: Note to Grandparents. Appendix 2: Quiz: “How do I Know if I'm Ready for a Coach?” Appendix 3: Checklist for Choosing a Coach. Appendix 4: How Can I Help? [a Brief Coaching Exercise for Friends and Family]. “Autism-ese” Glossary. Index.

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Book SynopsisParents and teachers of children with Asperger's know only too well the feeling that they are not quite reaching the child, not quite hearing or getting it, not communicating just right, or at all. Offering rich insights into what Asperger's is like for the child himself or herself, this compassionate book will empower parents and teachers, enabling them to nurture the child's strengths and work towards a happy and promising future. The book is packed with strategies, insights, and points to remember in order to address common areas of difficulty, including creating a safe space, quieting sensory overload, quelling anxiety, connecting to feelings, promoting friendship, and feeding creativity. A chapter devoted to girls with Asperger's describes how to see and connect with the child more deeply in order to better meet her needs, and the author also considers the ways in which other children might view and treat the child with Asperger's, with tried and tested advice on how a positive difference can be made, and what really works. This original and perceptive book offers rich insights into what Asperger's means in the real world, for real children, and is essential reading for parents, teachers, and other professionals.Trade ReviewBromfield is a great advocate for the child and bases his beliefs on his own observations and experiences as much as he does from his professional training... He gives a series of bullet points to guide parents through getting to know their child and how to start afresh when things have become toxic. He offers encouragement, realism and confidence... This book is ideal for all parents and educators... I found it a gentle, sweet and kind book. -- ASTeensThis is a great book for explaining that children with Asperger syndrome are as individual as any other child and that they have so much to offer if given the chance. Sensitively written, Richard Bromfield has great insight about helping a child with AS to access the world around them and gives value le strategies for parents and professionals. It was nice to see a chapter about girls too as more awareness of girls having AS develops.Overall, this is a very informative and easy to read book which will e useful for parents, education staff and professionals working with children with AS. -- OAASISIn each of these concise seventeen chapters, Bromfield gives real-life examples of children he has treated and discusses such topics as facilitating communication, feeding creativity, promoting friendship, and quelling anxiety; he devotes a special chapter to girls with Asperger's. In informative, concise, bullet-point format, Bromfield offers practical advice....Bromfield delves into the minds of children with Asperger's enlightening the reader as to how to nurture, honour, and understand them. He proposes an approach borne of patience, and writes in a straightforward manner....Perhaps the most important lesson to be garnered from the book is Bromfield's view that all children with Asperger's need to be loved and honoured to the same extent as neurotypical children. And that they are not so unusual, after all. -- Fore Word ReviewsRichard Bromfield's book, Embracing Asperger's, offers a solid primer for parents and professionals who interact with children diagnosed with Asperger's... Bromfield provides strategies and clear action items to connect with these children. Though at times the writing appears clinical, he balances it with personal examples from his private practice where he worked with children with Asperger's. These real-life stories provide an additional layer of depth to understanding the condition... Embracing Asperger's is a quick but informative read at 176 pages. -- Examiner.comDr Bromfield has worked with children with Asperger's for over 25 years. Throughout these years he has learned a lot, and now he is passing some of this information onto parents and teachers. He guides parents and teachers to a better understanding and acceptance of what it means to have Asperger's, so that they in turn can nurture a child with Asperger's into becoming a whole and happy person. Dr Bromfield addresses many items that do not typically get discussed in books on Asperger's... This is indeed a different kind of read on Asperger's and well worth it. Rather than always moving full steam ahead trying to find a solution to everything, we sometimes need to sit and smell the roses... Embracing Asperger's will help you to better understand your child with Asperger's. Learn how to accept him and learn how to support him. Although this book is for you, it is your child who will be receiving the biggest gift. -- S-O-S ResearchThere are so many useful bullet points here; one-liners that once grasped could make all the difference in a child's life:* Don't take t personally* Assume anxiety exists* Model acceptance* Do not turn away from depression... Bromfield's hands-on experience shines throughout this book; his insight is sure to prove invaluable to many readers. -- Whitterer on AutismFeel you are not quite reaching your child, not quite getting it or hearing it, not communicating just right or at all? This book is packed with strategies, insights and points to remember. -- OAASIS Newsletter.Embracing Asperger's reads easily. It is a guidebook that is accessible to a popular audience and that would be a useful source for professionals and students. -- Teacher's College RecordTable of ContentsIntroduction. Note to Readers. Caution. 1. The Child's Burden. 2. The Child's View. 3. The Parent's View. 4. The Teacher's View. 5. Creating a Safe Place. 6. Treasuring Precious Goods. 7. Quieting Sensory Overload. 8. Quelling Anxiety. 9. Facilitating Communication. 10. Tending the Intellect. 11. Connecting to Feelings. 12. Promoting Friendship. 13. Giving and Nurturing Empathy. 14. Feeding Creativity. 15. Considering Girls. 16. Other Children's Views. 17. Butterfly Love. 18. Connecting It All. References. Index.

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

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Book SynopsisGoing through a divorce is always tough, but when a child with special needs is involved it can be especially challenging. This book takes a clear and comprehensive look at every aspect of the legal divorce process, and addresses all of the legal issues that divorcing parents of children with special needs face.The author guides parents through the initial hurdles of choosing the right lawyer for their case, and explains exactly how to work with them to achieve the best possible outcome for all concerned. From agreeing upon child custody arrangements that meet the particular needs of the child, to making provision for child support payments, gathering together the documentation needed to prove a case, and dealing with financial issues such as debts and property distribution, no aspect of divorce is left uncovered. A set of checklists is included to ensure that parents consider everything they need to, and the book concludes with a useful list of further resources.Written by an experienced family lawyer who went through her own divorce when her son, who has autism, was six, this book offers much-needed guidance to divorcing parents of children with a variety of special needs.Trade ReviewMargaret "Pegi" Price's book for parents takes on the challenge of merging general concepts of divorce law with the particular needs of a divorcing parent of a child with special needs... the book provides a wealth of information and checlists for a parent about to go through one of life's most difficult events. -- Steven P. Kuhn, Esq. - AHA NewsletterMargaret "Pegi" Price's Divorce and the Special Needs Child is an essential guide to what are still basically uncharted legal waters; it should be required reading for divorcing parents of disabled or special needs children, their legal team, and any counselors and care providers associated with the family... Her compassionate, wise, and practical book is filled with information that leaves no aspect of the divorce process uncovered, and offers a glimpse at what one's life, post-divorce, might look like. Checklists, samples of legal documents, an ample bibliography, a chapter listing national and state resources, and a glossary of often-used legal and medical terms complete this highly valuable guidebook. -- ForeWord ReviewsTable of ContentsNote. Disclaimer. About the Author. Preface. 1. Your Child's Special Needs. I. Types of Special Needs. II. Why Does this Matter in Divorce Court? III. Impact of Divorce on Special Needs Children. 2. How to Hire a Good Divorce Lawyer for Your Special Needs Case. I. Choosing Your Divorce Lawyer. II. Finding Good Candidates. III. The Interview. IV. The Lawyer's Approach and Personality. V. The Lawyer's Credentials. VI. Expectations. VII. Office Procedures and Practices. 3. How Does a Case Go through Divorce Court? I. Overview of Family Courts. II. The First Documents Filed with the Court. III. Additional Documents Filed with the Court. IV. Temporary Orders and Other Motions. V. Orders of Protection. VI. Court Meetings or Conferences. VII. Discovery. VIII. What You Need to Know before the First Court Date. IX. Settlement or Trial. 4. What Is Different about Your Case? I. Child Custody and Visitation. II. Child Support. III. Alimony (Maintenance or Spousal Support). IV. Property Distribution & Retirement Accounts. V. Guardian Ad Litem. VI. Expert Witnesses. VII. Proving Your Case to the Court. VII. Parenting Plan. IX. Settlement Agreement. X. Judgement. 5. Child Custody & Visitation. I. Primary Caregiver Parent. II. Parent Training. III. Logistical Considerations. I. Parental Denial. II. Lack of Cooperation/Medical or Educational Neglect. III. Child's Schedule. IV. Environmental Modifications. V. What Does Physical Custody Mean? VI. What Does Legal Custody Mean? 6. Child Support. I. Current Expenses. II. Therapy, Equipment & Medications. III. Supplements, Dietary Costs and Sensory Items. IV. Respite Care. V. Professionals. VI. Home Modifications. VII. Future Changes in the Child's Condition or Needs. 7. Alimony (Maintenance or Spousal Support). I. Primary Caregiver's Job Future. II. Primary Caregiver's Future Retirement Savings. III. How the Noncustodial Parent Can Help. 8. Property Distribution & Retirement Accounts. I. How do we Split up the House and Other Property? II. What Should We Do about the Debts? III. How Do We Handle the Retirement Accounts? 9. How You Can Help Your Lawyer Get the Best Result. I. Reasonable Expectations. II. Be Cooperative, Not Confrontational. III. Collect Medical and Educational Documents. IV. Help Educate Your Lawyer On Your Child's Special Needs. V. Get Evaluations and Reports. VI. Guardian Ad Litem. VII. Expert Witnesses. VIII. Translate the Jargon for Your Lawyer. 10. Tying up Loose Ends. I. Share Information. II. Sign Releases and Authorizations. III. Papers to Sign. IV. Car Titles, Mortgages & Quit Claim Deeds. V. Bank and Financial Accounts. VI. Employers and Insurance. VII. Retirement Accounts. VIII. Schools, Day Care, Therapists & Doctors. 11. Life after Divorce. I. Your New Reality. II. Two Households and Visitation. III. Less Money, More Expenses. IV. Future Relationships. V. Protecting Your Child. 12. What to Do When Things Change in the Future. I. When Can the Court Help Me in the Future? II. What Should I Do Then? 13. Resources. 14. Bibliography. 15. Checklists. References. Sample Documents. Glossary. Index.

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Book SynopsisLiving with ADD/ADHD can be hectic, and parenting a child with this disorder can feel like an uphill struggle when even the simplest of tasks causes havoc. This book addresses the issues of organization and time management in relation to ADD/ADHD, suggesting practical ways of organizing your child's day and turning chaos into calm.Accommodating short attention spans and short fuses, Cheryl Carter shows how, by using the F.I.R.S.T method (Fun, Individualism, Rules, Simplicity and Time management), even the most hyperactive and easily distracted of children can be taught to make their bed, pack their school bag, and generally get organized! The author recognizes that children hate anything that is boring, and finds fun ways around even the most mundane of tasks. Her no-nonsense, step-by-step strategies, in combination with positive affirmations and realistic demands, will get ADD/ADHD children organized, and from A to B without a hitch.This book is a must-have for any flagging parent struggling to structure their child's life (and indeed their own!). It will also be of interest to family members, teachers, and anybody close to a child with ADD/ADHD.Trade ReviewThis book is a common sense guide to helping children with ADD/ADHD... The chapters or 'time and transitions' and 'ADD/ADHD questions' are particularly pertinent and many parents will find these useful. For the professional working in the field it is felt to be a good summary of many of the strategies usually discussed with parents and schools. -- NAPLIC MattersFor parents tired of their ADD/ADHD children's forgetfulness, lost homework, messy bedrooms, and tantrums over chores, there's help in this easy-to-read yet long-lasting guide... Parents will not only appreciate Carter's informative strategies, all told in a conversational tone, but the myriad resources that wrap up this must-have guide. A Helpful Tips section, broken down by such catagories as chores, home life, and leisure time, will benefit any child, not only those with ADD and ADHD. Other resources comprise a list of equipment (e.g., an electronic dictionary and analog visual timer) beneficial to special needs children, a list of realistic chores for different age spans, multiple checklists (e.g., morning routine and night before school), and chart and planner templates. Together, these resources give parents the tools they need to help their ADD/ADHD children become more productive and independent. -- ForeWord ReviewsTable of ContentsIntroduction: No More Lost Homework. 1. Make it Fun but Keep it Firm. 2. Individualize with Interests. 3. Establish Rules With a Routine. 4. Keep it Simple and Specific. 5. Address Time and Transitions. 6. Plan for School Success. 7. Your Child's Bedroom. 8. Moving to Self Management. 9. Managing Your Home. 10. ADD/ADHD Questions. 11. Helpful Tips. Useful Resources. Suggested Chores for Different Ages. Example Checklists. Chart and Planner Templates. About the Author. Index.

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

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

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Book SynopsisHomework time can be an ordeal for children with AD/HD. After a long day at school, the child often struggles to concentrate and becomes restless, and the parent is left feeling helpless. With the right strategies, homework can be made a more tolerable and even enjoyable experience for both parent and child.This is a book filled with inspiring methods to motivate children with AD/HD at homework time. Common techniques such as enforcing restrictions and rigid timing techniques can stifle the joy of learning. This book focuses on empowering and enabling the child, acknowledges the characteristics of AD/HD and engages the positive side of these traits. Encouraging movement and creativity, the chapters are brimming with great ideas such as scavenger hunts, singing spelling games and jumping math quizzes that hold the child's attention and make learning fun.By adopting these simple strategies into the daily routine of a child with AD/HD, parents and teachers can take the tears and tantrums out of homework time and pave the way for academic success.Trade ReviewThe book is all about "encouraging, enabling, enriching, engaging, and empowering" your child. It is broken up into nine chapters containing short descriptions of over 100 games or exercises that facilitate an aspect of homework - perfect for dipping into. -- Special ChildrenWhile the book aims to help parents of children with ADHD, it is something that any parent would benefit from. I wish I had come across it years ago. -- Special ChildrenVeteran educator Green offers some sound ideas for creatively approaching that dreaded nightly task called homework--a task made exponentially more difficult with an ADHD child. Designed for children in grades K-8, each activity is designed to engage, enable, enrich, and encourage the ADHD child by leveraging the traits associated with the disorder. From answering multiplication problems by jumping the correct number of times to learning spelling words by using a variety of writing tools (e.g., finger in air, glitter pens, computer keyboard), Green addresses everything from preparing the external environment to tools for dealing with ADHD-specific challenges and provides tips for individual subject areas such as writing, spelling, and math. VERDICT Her overriding philosophy is that parents cannot bestow enough positives. Green's creative and empowering tools will become go-to strategies for many families and teachers. Enthusiastically recommended. -- Library JournalChange homework helplessness to homework excitement when you follow suggestions in "AD/HD Homework Challenges Transformed!" by Harriet Hope Green. This book is totally engaging and has some very original ideas to help lower the stress of homework completion. It's extremely practical.... In her concluding chapter Harriet says that the book "does not offer any cures ." It may not offer cures; "AD/HD Homework Challenges Transformed!" Does offer hope for every parent who has struggled through hours of homework at the finish of a very long day. -- Bella OnlineHarriet Hope Green has given us the best of her expertise in working with children and her creative talents for helping those who struggle with challenges. Through delightfully fresh activities and ideas, Ms. Green provides the reader with a step-by-step instructional 'how to' that will be appreciated by educators and parents alike! -- Wilma Fellman, M.Ed., Licensed Professional Counselor and author of The Other Me: Poetic Thoughts on ADD for Adults, Kids and Parents, MichiganHarriet Hope Green has tutored my daughter for several years, and has introduced many of the creative ideas in the book. I marvel at how much the activities in this book can alter the mood of an often dreaded homework session. The creative activities help students forget they are doing homework. My daughter looks forward to 'Miss Harriet's' tutoring visits because they are fun and effective. -- Kim Roehl, parent of a child with multiple learning challenges, MichiganI think giant steps helped me learn my basic multiplication facts. The mystery box was so much fun. All the activities helped me be successful. -- G., student aged 12, diagnosed with AD/HD and dyslexia, MichiganHomework is often a source of stress for students with AD/HD, their parents and teachers. This book provides lots of tips, strategies and activities that encourage fun and creativity in finding new solutions; such as doing homework under the table! A useful new toolkit for facing the brick wall of homework. -- Joanne Steer, chartered clinical psychologist and co-author of Helping Kids and Teens with ADHD in School, UKTable of ContentsPreface. Introduction. 1. Enablers. 2. Study Skills. 3. Bring on the Homework. 4. Reading Dilemma. 5. Monster Math. 6. Spelling. 7. Writing. 8. Addressing Symptoms. 9. Emotions. Conclusion. Index.

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Book SynopsisAs a parent, a teacher and an Aspie herself, Jennifer O'Toole provides the definitive insider's view of Asperger syndrome. She shows how to help children on the spectrum by understanding how they think and by exploiting their special interests to promote learning. Her strategies work because she thinks like the children that she teaches.This exciting book is full of effective and fun ways of engaging with children with Asperger syndrome. Jennifer explains how theory of mind difficulties create the need for concrete forms of communication, and provides original methods to inspire imagination through sensorial experiences. In particular she reveals the untapped power of special interests, showing how to harness these interests to encourage academic, social and emotional growth.Affirming that different doesn't mean defective, this book offers the insight and guidance that parents, educators, and other professionals need to connect with the Asperkids in their life and get them excited about learning.Trade ReviewJennfier is in a unique position to write this book. Not only are her kids on the spectrum, so are she and hubby. In addition, she is a school teacher. That makes for a pretty encompassiong view on what it means to be on the spectrum, raise a child on the spectrum and teach a child on spectrum... This book is full of insight and simple useful tips... If you are the parent or teacher of a child on the spectrum, I highly recomment it. -- Aunt Aspie's Book of the Month!(... )her first book, was so innovative and refreshing... Jen cleverly uses the quick Aspie mind to its own advantage by encouraging analysis and insight... If you have a child with Asperger's or high-functioning autism, it'll have much the same effect as an invigorating run along the beach. -- AukidsThe book contains many practical suggestions for educating children with Asperger syndrome at home. O'Toole analyses the difficulties and challenges with perception and insight, showing how to help children for whom everyday activities may be upsetting and incomprehensible. -- HEASAsperkids has LOTS of practical ideas that will really help kids on the spectrum. I completely agree that using a child's passion is the best way to motivate learning. -- Temple Grandin, author of Thinking in PicturesA mother with Asperger syndrome (AS) and three Aspie children, O'Toole is uniquely situated to understand the best ways to approach parenting and teaching youths with AS.... O'Toole approaches the Aspie lifestyle with a great deal of humor and insight. She's particularly good at explaining the hurdles Aspie children face daily as they navigate school and social settings, and she helps readers see the world the way anyone with AS does. The result is an easy-to-read guide to interacting with Aspie children, replete with additional resources and references. -- Library Journal ReviewsFull of effective and enjoyable ways to engage (such) children, and offers guidance and insight to other parents, as well as teachers and other practitioners. -- Young Minds MagazineHer book presents an insider's perspective into the world of Asperger syndrome which would be very helpful to anyone who seeks to understand the condition. Many effective and original ways of engaging with Asperger children are presented. -- HEAS (Homes Education Advisory Service)Within seconds of opening the book I had shed a few tears, and later, as I continued reading in the bath (...) I had several more unexpected cries. These were all moments of pure recognition, and with each one came a mixture of joy, release and relief. Not only does O'Toole describe so many ways of being that sound just like my little L, but I could also connect with much of what she said about being a Mum. Not only does this woman understand what it is to be an Aspie (she is one), she also understands what it is to be the parent of one (she has there) and the wife of one. What could top that in terms of a well-rounded viewpoint?... O'Toole accurately grasps my hopes for L and his future, that he can move forward with an understanding and pride in himself, and that he will see the positive aspects to having those Spectrum qualities as well as some of the challenges he will inevitably face... I now feel that I've got a way in to L's mind which is so much more meaningful that the off-piste advice I am given by well-meaning but autism-ignorant professionals. One of my friends, who also has a son on the Spectrum, once commented that she wished she could see inside her son's head for a while. "Asperkids" and all it offers, may just be one way to do it. -- Loving Martians - Wordpress blog by Rebecca MitchellI read this book in just two consecutive sittings - loved it!... As Aspie herself, Jenny is quite brilliant and as a teacher and parent she is doubly insightful into her own children's needs and how to help them. -- Netbuddy.co.ukAmazing. Jennifer's ability to share her Asperger perspective and explain what our kids need most in the home and in school is fantastic. She gets right to what matters and makes powerful points that have to be heard. On both a personal and a professional level, I say this is a book that needs to be on shelves everywhere. -- Meredith G. Bove, MBA, Educational Strategies Consultant and mother of a son with Asperger Syndrome, USAJennifer provides a unique perspective into the world of Asperger syndrome - helping to put all the pieces together, with a little humor thrown in along the way. I will highly recommend this book to any Asper-parent to better understand their child's world and help them grow, learn, and develop based on their unique strengths. -- Courtney Enos, MS-OT, occupational therapist, Touchstone Therapy, North Carolina, USAAsperkids has touched my heart to its deepest core, brought tears to my eyes, knowledge to my mind and an in-depth understanding of Asperger Syndrome. It is beautifully written, easy to understand and incredibly sincere. I will most definitely stock the shelves of our psychological book store with this wonderful, insightful book. Kudos to Jennifer Cook O'Toole for her passion, love and knowledge of Asperger syndrome and her willingness and eagerness to share it with everyone. -- Diane Chartrand-Balcer, Purchasing Director for Insomnia Bookstore at Southeast Psychology, North Carolina, USAFresh, honest, organic and raw insights - Jennifer has written a legacy for all those on the spectrum, inviting everyone into an intricate and delicious mindset of an Asperfamily's challenges and successes. This book is a literary feast of new and exciting creative ideas and strategies which are shared in a very unique conversational manner. This book may be the key to unlocking a new and successful way of teaching and communicating with persons on the spectrum. -- Josie Santomauro, mother of a son with Asperger syndrome, editor of Autism All-Stars: How We Use Our Autism and Asperger Traits to Shine in Life and co-author of Set for Success: Activities for Teaching Emotional, Social and Organisational SkillsJennifer Cook O'Toole's personal understanding of the Asperger 'profile' makes Asperkids a fascinating read. In it she gives a wealth of exciting and innovative 'detours' around the challenges of AS and has provided a book full of lively and enthusiastic ideas to get you really enjoying working with your Asperger child. This is one of the most respectful books about teaching children with Asperger syndrome I have read and I thoroughly recommend it. -- Clare Lawrence, teacher, autism worker, mother, and author of Autism and Flexischooling: A Shared Classroom and Homeschooling Approach and How to Make School Make Sense: A Parents' Guide to Helping the Child with Asperger SyndromeAsperkids is brilliant! Not only is Jennifer an inspiring person, she's an Aspermom out to make a difference. Her passion to educate the NT world about Aspies shines through. Many Asperkids, and their families, will benefit from her personal insight. I am convinced this book will make a positive impact. -- Julie Clark, author of Asperger's in Pink: Pearls of Wisdom from Inside the Bubble of Raising a Child with Asperger'sAs a neurotypical mom with two kids with Asperger syndrome, Asperkids gave me an inside look into the minds of my own children. Jennifer's unique viewpoint really helped me understand how I can communicate better with my kids, support their talents, and help them navigate the world. Asperkids should serve as a touchstone for parents and teachers alike. I'll definitely be sharing this book! -- Joslyn Gray, autism advocate and author of the blog stark. raving. mad. mommy.Just a few pages into Asperkids, I knew I was reading something special... O'Toole is the real deal bundle of experience and knowledge our Asperger community can turn to for compassionate understanding and wise advice. -- from the Foreword by Liane Holliday Willey, EdD, author of Pretending to be Normal and Asperger Safety Skills for Womenreading [O'Toole's] book is making me understand more how his brain is wired and I am learning SO much. -- Elizabeth Conner, mother of a child with Asperger syndromeAsperkids by Jennifer Cook O'Toole is a no-brainer to include as required reading in any education, medical, or therapy college or university program… This book addresses much more than diagnosis and treatment guidelines. If you changed the title, it could be a manual on how to respect and understand the teaching-learning experience and teach in a way that children will not only learn from, but love. The concepts of learning styles, instructional styles, engagement, thematic teaching, humor, developmental approach, differentiated instruction, structuring environments for learning, the fun factor, empathy, positive energy, balancing the environment with multisensory opportunities, and much more are presented in a fun and easy-to-learn style that will stay with students into their careers. I love Asperkids and cannot wait to share it with my Occupational Therapy students this semester. -- Toni Schulken, MS, OTR/L, Pathways for LearningTable of ContentsPreface: How Asperger's Saved My Life. 1. The Theory of My Mind: How Asperkids Think. 2. Special Interests: The Way In. 3. All Aspies Are from Missouri: Concrete Minds. 4. Detour – This Way: Getting around Learning Challenges. 5. Living the Practical Life. 6. Dear Santa, I'd Like a Friend for Christmas. 7. It Depends on Where You're Standing: Perspectives on Comfort Zones. 8. Conclusion: My Father's Legacy.

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Book SynopsisThe purpose of special needs planning is to create the best possible life for an adult with a disability. This book provides comprehensive guidance on creating a life plan to transition a special needs child to independence or to ensure they are well cared for in the future.Beginning with a vision of a meaningful life for the child, Hal Wright explains how to form a practical plan to reach these goals, how to mentor personal empowerment and task skills, and how to create circles of support to sustain a life plan. He next looks at employment and residential options, and government programs available in the United States. Finally he talks the reader through important financial and legal considerations, including how to fund and manage a special needs trust.This book will be essential reading for all parents or guardians of a child with a cognitive, mental or physical impairment. It will also be of interest to attorneys, financial planners, insurance agents, trust officers and other professionals looking to better serve the special needs community.Trade ReviewAny parent of a child with physical or mental impairments needs this specific resource on how to create a unique person-centered life plan, keeping in mind the unique requirements of the individual. -- Midwest Book ReviewAuthor Wright, a former certified financial planner (CFP) has filled a very definite need in this comprehensive, thought-provoking guide to "life planning" for the adult child with special needs....There is a plethora of information for parents of a preschool and/or school-aged special needs child, but there is a definite dearth of information about planning for the adult child, making this book both needed and valuable. Verdict: An essential for parents of special needs children, educators, medical and legal professionals, insurance agents, financial planners, and others interested in the special needs community. -- Library Journal, starred reviewFinally someone has created a much-needed resource to help families, caregivers, and anyone else navigate the maze of special needs planning. This book is an invaluable resource in showing how to create a person-centered life plan that focuses on an individual's abilities, not his or her disability. Hal Wright has done the nearly impossible and created a comprehensive guidebook that crosses several disciplines to build a roadmap for special needs life planning. I particularly like the practical checklists that follow every section making the process of life planning achievable for everyone regardless of resources or family situation. -- from the foreword by James Faber, President of The National Down Syndrome CongressHal Wright successfully tackles a daunting subject - helping parents of children with disabilities prepare for their futures. It's obvious that Hal is passionate about serving and enriching the lives of those within the special needs community. Illustrative and practical, this guide is imperative reading for families and professionals who are driven to make a difference. Well done, Hal! -- Peter J Wall, Vice President and Trust Officer, Colorado State Bank and TrustThe transition into adult life for an individual with a disability and his or her family is often incredibly stressful and overwhelming. Hal's book provides real answers to real questions for real people. It is comprehensive in its approach. I anticipate that it will not only help families create a plan that works for their unique set of dreams and needs, but will also provide families with a sense of hope in a beautiful future. -- Julie Dani, MS Education, Special Education ConsultantParents of children with special needs and their advisors will return again and again to The Complete Guide to Creating a Special Needs Life Plan when sorting through the maze of thorny issues they face. Hal Wright weaves together diverse and inherently complex areas of planning with the expertise of an experienced practitioner and the compassion of a loving dad. -- Hartley Goldstone, JD, co-author of TrustWorthy: New Angles on Trusts from Beneficiaries and TrusteesThis book accomplishes what it sets out to do in the title; that is, it offers a complete overview of how to create a life plan for a child with special needs. This comprehensive book offers a plan for the maze of life that families of children with disabilities travel through. Specific and well-written information on challenging issues such as finances (including advice on Special Needs Trusts and Supplemental Security Income), insurance, guardianship, and estate planning provides excellent guidance for these families. -- Fran Hickey, MD, Director of the Sie Center for Down Syndrome, Children's Hospital ColoradoHal's book is the most comprehensive, easy-to-read book on living with and helping those with disabilities that I have ever read or imagined. It's a book you can read from cover to cover (and should) as well as a resource you can go back to as needed. It answers every question I can think of and so much more. It's a resource for those just starting their journey and those already well on their way. Highly recommended! -- Ally Bailey, parent of a daughter with an intellectual disabilityThis book is at the top of my list for families and professionals that are touched by someone with special needs. As an attorney with over 30 years' experience, my practice focuses on elder law and special needs planning. Hal provides advice that is practical, comprehensive, and easy to understand. I give The Complete Guide to Creating a Special Needs Life Plan my highest recommendation and applaud Hal for his insight and mastery of a multifaceted subject. -- Bradley J. Frigon, JD, LLM, CELA (Certified Elder Law Attorney), CAP (Council of Advance Practitioners)Table of ContentsAcknowledgements. Preface. Introduction: What is “Special Needs” Planning? Part 1: Life Planning: Your Child's Place in the Community. 1. Start with a Life Plan Chapter. 2. Create the Circles of Support. 3. Life Skills are the Foundation for Independence. 4. Write a Letter of Intent. A Checklist of Life Planning Actions. The Case Studies: Life Plans. Part 2: Resource Planning: Making It Possible. 5. Identify the Services to Meet Special Needs. 6: A Job One Can Be Proud Of. 7. A Home of One's Own. 8. Understand the Basics of Social Security and Medicare. 9. Understand the Basics of Supplemental Security Income and Medicaid. 10. Understand State-Provided Services for Adults with Disabilities. A Checklist of Resource Planning Actions. Case Studies: Resource Plans. Part 3: Financial Planning: Paying for the Resources. 11. Develop a Special Needs Financial Plan. 12. Estimate Lifetime Financial Support. 13. Plan for Funding and Managing a Special Needs Trust. 14. Maintain an Insurance Safety Net. 15. Efficiently Manage Income, Trust and Estate Taxes. 16. Update Your Financial Records to Implement Your Estate Plan. A Checklist of Financial Planning Actions. Case Studies: Financial Plans. Part 4: Legal Planning: Protecting Your Vision and Your Child. 17. Establish a Comprehensive Estate Plan. 18. Prepare the Appropriate Legal Documents. 19. Establish a Special Needs Trust. 20. Obtain Guardianship or Implement Alternative Protections. A Checklist of Estate Planning Actions. Case Studies: Legal Plans. Part 5: Special Circumstances. 21. Divorce and the Special Needs Child. 22. Denial of Eligibility for Government Benefits. 23. Marriage: Considerations for People with Disabilities. 24. Twelve Things to Remember. List of Acronyms. Definitions of Important Terms. References and Further Reading. Index.

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Book SynopsisWhen you decide to foster, you are faced with many difficult decisions, dilemmas and questions: How do you navigate the daily struggles of foster parenting? How can you nurture bonds with your foster child who is angry, sad, and defiant? How can you prepare to step back when it's time to let go?Foster Parenting Step-by-Step is a concise how-to guide to fostering that summarizes what to expect as a foster parent, and gives immediate practical solutions. It outlines the different stages of a fostering relationship, raising common issues encountered at each age and how to tackle them. It also explains the impact of trauma on your child: how this can show itself through challenging behavior and how to respond to it. This book will provide fostering parents with the skills and knowledge to support the needs of the children in foster care. It will be invaluable not just to foster parents but also to those professionals supporting foster placements.Trade ReviewDr. Gopal has been a lifeline for many children in foster care and their parents and foster parents for many years. [She] is also a well-known speaker and has blessed the National Foster Parent Association with numerous workshop presentations at our annual education conferences. In Foster Parenting Step-by-Step: How to Nurture the Traumatized Child and Overcome Conflict, Dr. Gopal… writes as if she were sitting across the table from you and explaining the incredibly many aspects of foster care and foster parenting. My recommendation is to read the book from cover to cover, taking time to mark those areas that you know you will want to refer to time and time again as you welcome additional children into your home. This new book provides insights and recommendations that will be beneficial to all who chose to provide foster care and/or kinship care. -- From the foreword by Irene Clements, Foster Care Consultant and President of the National Foster Parent Association (NFPA), Minneapolis, USAThis useful book is valuable for foster carers (and prospective foster carers) in helping to consider the issues around looking after other people's children who have suffered early difficulties in their lives. It will help any foster carer to work reflectively and consider the options and issues that the child they are looking after is facing, together with ideas about strategies that might usefully be used in understanding and managing situations. As with all good foster care sharing ideas and thoughts gained in studying this book is made more effective by discussion in supervision. -- Jim Bond MBE, Foster Carer and CounselorTable of ContentsQuotes from Foster Children. Preface. Introduction. 1. The Motivational Stage – First Things First! Know What to Expect. 2. The Planning Stage – About Your Family. Are You Prepared? 3. The Welcoming Stage – Getting to Know Your Foster Child. 4. Displacement Trauma. 5. The Adapting Stage – Attachment and Protecting Your Foster Child. 6. The Educational Stage – Parenting Issues and Much More. 7. The Empowering Stage – Successful Evidence-Based Strategies. 8. The Letting Go/Adopting Stage. Resources and Useful Addresses. Bibliography. Index.

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Book SynopsisEver wish that parenting a child or teen on the autism spectrum came with instant access to a support group? Brenda Dater has provided parents with exactly that. In this book she draws on her extensive experience as a support group leader and parent of a child on the spectrum to offer trusted advice and tried-and-tested solutions to parents' top concerns, all in an accessible and easy-to-read format. Filled with the voices of other parents in the same situation, the book covers everything from the first steps to take after diagnosis, to advocacy and disclosure, behavior, building independence and resilience, making friends, holidays and vacations, homework, supporting siblings, how to garner support from extended family and friends, and how parents can look after their own wellbeing.This book extends the vital lifeline of a support group to parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum everywhere.Trade ReviewI love this book! It is well-organized, comprehensive, incredibly helpful, and written in a style that is easy to read and relate to. Brenda Dater's new resource is a gem for families and a must read for educators. The book offers the best and most comprehensive section I have ever read relating to sibling relationships, and includes endless tips for taking a successful family vacation. This is now one of my top 5 resources for parents of children on the autism spectrum. -- Kari Dunn Buron, Autism Education Specialist and author of When My Worries Get Too Big! and The Incredible 5-Point ScaleBrenda Dater has written a real gem. I started highlighting the passages I loved, only to realize that whole pages were covered in yellow highlighter! There are so many wonderful insights and ideas in this book. One of the aspects that makes Ms. Dater's book so unique, though, is its consistent focus on parents taking care of themselves. All too often, we professionals heap on recommendation after recommendation. In our zeal to help, we may forget that parents and children are parents and children first, and individuals affected by autism second. In her own eloquent words, Ms. Dater's book reminds all of us that it is essential to heed the flight attendant's warning: "Take care of yourself before attending to the needs of others." I can't wait to start sharing Ms. Dater's book with the families I know. -- Teresa Bolick, Ph.D., BCBA-D, Licensed Psychologist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst-DoctoralIt is always challenging to raise a teenager - and especially so if the person you love has Asperger's Syndrome. Brenda Dater's Parenting Without Panic is full of helpful advice and should not only help assuage anxiety but reinforce the joy of living with somebody singular and precious. -- Tim Page, parent, author of Parallel Play and Professor of Journalism and Music, University of Southern CaliforniaBrenda has the rare gift of translating her parenting experience into an insightful professional guide for parents of children with ASD. It is easy to feel that she's right across the table from you having a cup of tea. Your questions get answered. -- Elsa Abele CCC SLP, Speech/Language Pathologist and Adjunct Professor in the Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders Training, Antioch University, New EnglandTable of ContentsAcknowledgments. Disclaimer. A Note on Terminology. A Note on Strategies. 1. In the Beginning. 2. Behavior - Looking Through an Asperger's Lens. 3. Disclosure - How to Tell Your Child About Asperger's and When to Consider Telling Others. 4. Friendship Foundations. 5. Homework - Why is it Hard and What Will Help? 6. Extended Family and Friends. 7. Siblings. 8. Holidays and Vacations. 9. Chronic Stress - Building a Balanced Life. 10. Raising Capable and Resilient Kids. Conclusions. Additional Resources. References. Index.

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Book SynopsisThis comprehensive guide enables parents of children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to play an active and effective role in their child's medical care from diagnosis to early adulthood. With a focus on working with health care providers to ensure the best treatment for your child's unique needs, it includes:- a description of the developmental and medical conditions faced by children with ASDs in lay terms- an explanation of common diagnostic tests- a presentation of conventional and alternative therapies and how they work- tips for managing day-to-day medical or behavioral problems- advice for parents considering enrolling their child in a research project- and all the latest medical information.This authoritative and accessible book provides parents of children with an ASD with the foundation of knowledge they need to become an active partner in the medical care of their child and the map that will allow them to navigate the complex medical world.Trade ReviewHere, in a single volume, Ming and Pletcher provide families with an authoritative and in-depth review of what is known today about the diagnosis, causes and treatments of the autism spectrum disorders. Issues important to toddlers, older children and adults are well covered. The book is comprehensive and should be of interest to healthcare providers and teachers, as well as parents. -- Gary W. Goldstein, M.D., President and CEO, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Professor of Pediatrics and Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, and board member of Autism SpeaksThis important book is a gold mine of authoritative practical information that will make real improvements in the lives of people with autism. -- Martha Herbert, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Pediatric Neurologist, Massachusetts General Hospital, and author of 'The Autism Revolution'Ming and Pletcher have conceived and brought to fruition a very important, practical and useful book that fills a definite need. It brings together all facets of clinical care for autism, along with the background scientific principles. The authors provide up-to-date, accurate and thorough coverage of all the important medical aspects of ASD, along with topics related to various therapies, educational planning and legal aspects. The chapters are written by authorities in their fields and are very readable in everyday language. At the same time, the depth and breadth of coverage of the topics make the book a valuable resource for professionals as well as parents and families. Most notably, in each chapter sound advice is based on the analysis of what is known and carefully balanced with the unknown. This book will become common ground for the whole community, including families, therapists, educators and medical professionals of all types who work with children and adults with ASD. -- Andrew W. Zimmerman, M.D., Clinical Professor of Pediatrics (Neurology), Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders, UMass Memorial Medical Center, Worcester, MATable of ContentsPreface. 1. When Your Child is Diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Sue X. Ming, MD, PhD, Pediatric Neurologist and Professor of Neurosciences and Neurology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ. 2. Co-occurrence of Neurological Disorders with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). Sue X. Ming, MD, PhD. 3. Co-occurrence of Psychiatric Disorders with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) and Their Management. Lisa Ford, MD, Pediatric Neurologist and Associate Professor of Neuroscience and Neurology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. 4. Gastrointestinal Disorders That Can Lead to Both Physical and Behavioral Problems. Iona M. Monteiro, MD, Pediatric Gastroenterologist and Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. 5. Allergies and Immune Mediated Conditions in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). Harumi Jyonouchi, MD, Pediatric Allergist/Immunologist and Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. 6. Oral and Dental Issues for the Person with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Evan Spivack, DDS, Professor of Pediatric Dentistry, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, Mark D. Robinson, DMD, Assistant Professor of Pediatric Dentistry, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine, and Tomas J. Ballesteros, DMD, Clinical Instructor, Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Rutgers School of Dental Medicine. 7. Genetic Considerations for the Individual with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Beth A. Pletcher, MD, Pediatric and Medical Geneticist and Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. 8. Traditional Treatment Options for the Child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Caroline Hayes-Rosen, MD, Pediatric Neurologist and Assistant Professor of Neurosciences and Neurology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. 9. Complementary and Alternative Therapies in the Child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Jeffrey Kornitzer, MD, Pediatric Neurology Fellow, Department of Neurosciences and Neurology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. 10. Environmental Risk Factors and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). Sue X. Ming, MD, PhD. 11. Tests for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) and Their Associated Medical or Behavioral Conditions. Devorah Segal, MD, PhD, Pediatric Neurology Fellow, Department of Neurosciences and Neurology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. 12. The Medical Home for Your Child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Jennifer Bain, MD, PhD, Child Neurology Fellow, Department of Neurology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY. 13. Working with Non-Physician Members of Your Child's Treatment Team. Caroline Hayes-Rosen, MD, Pediatric Neurologist and Assistant Professor of Neurosciences and Neurology, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. 14. Puberty and Sexuality. Susan R. Brill, MD, Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Drexel University College of Medicine and Chief, Adolescent Medicine, Saint Peter's University Hospital, New Brunswick, NJ, Tishi Shah, MD, Pediatric Resident, Department of Pediatrics, Saint Peter's University Hospital, and Barbie Zimmerman-Bier, MD, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Drexel University College of Medicine, and Chief, Developmental Pediatrics, Saint Peter's University Hospital. 15. Bridging the Gap to Adulthood: Navigating the Transition to Your Child's Future. Susan L. Connors, MD, Internist, Lurie Center, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, Lexington, MA, and Julie O'Brien, MEd, LMHC, Lurie Center, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children. 16. Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) and the Law. Gary McAbee, DO, JD, Professor of Neuroscience, New Jersey Neuroscience Institute, JFK Medical Center, Seton Hall University, Edison, NJ and Chief of Pediatric Neurology, Meadowlands Hospital Medical Center, Secaucus, NJ. 17. Participating in a Research Project. Sue X. Ming, MD, PhD.

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Book SynopsisDoes your child suffer from anxiety or depression? Are you at a loss as to what to do about it? This navigational tool, written by eminent clinical psychologist Sam Cartwright-Hatton, gives guidance on what you can do to give your child the best chance of recovery, as well as offering insight into the often complicated system of mental healthcare. Covering practical issues such as diet and routine, as well as more specialized medical information – from the professionals you might encounter to the prescriptions offered - this book is an A to Z guide for parents of anxious or depressed children and will help you maximize your child’s likelihood of a happy, confident future.Trade Review"This book provides parents with many practical ideas about how to cope with an anxious or depressed child" * Paul Stallard - Paul Stallard, Professor of Child & Family Mental Health, University of Bath *"This book will be greatly appreciated both by parents looking for information and practical advice, as well as by child and adolescent mental health clinicians looking for a useful resource to recommend to families." * James Murray - University of Surrey *"If you are a parent of an anxious child, or you work with anxious children, then this book will answer all your questions." * Charlotte Wilson - Lecturer in Clinical Psychology, University of East Anglia *

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Book SynopsisRaising Responsible Teenagers combines comprehensive discussion about child development with practical advice on parenting styles and discipline techniques. Each stage of child development is discussed, creating a picture of where the child 'is at' on entering adolescence. Adolescence is the final stage of childhood, the springboard to adult life and a time where values are being blended into a mixture that parents can still greatly influence.Bob Myers provides the tools for this, such as the use of rules made and agreed on by all the family and based on the simple philosophy of `a fair go and safety for everyone'. Being a realist, he also offers ways of handling difficult behaviour and shows how adults in the parenting role can focus control on their own parenting skills, rather than focusing just on the child. Each chapter contains useful examples and checklists for further thought, as well as a fund of useful advice.This book will provide an extremely useful guide for parents, teachers and all those who wish to interact with young people in a conflict-free atmosphere, and who wish to see them become considerate, achieving and responsible adults.Table of ContentsIntroduction. 1.Child Development in the early years. 2.Development during adolescence. 3.Styles of Discipline. 4.Moral Development. 5. Parenting style. 6.Externalising the rules. 7.Assertiveness. 8. Who is responsible for what? 9. Responding to irresponsible behaviour. 10.Changing children's behaviour. 11.Introducing teenagers to reality. 12.Punishment. 13.Managing difficult behaviour. 14.Consequences. 15.Parenting is a community responsibility. Index.

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Book Synopsis`This excellent book looks at the attachment and development of very young children in the fostering and adoption situation. It deals sensitively and practically with the young child's "hurts" to help adopters and foster carers understand and cope with the many traumas they may experience in integrating a young child into their family. Caroline Archer is a real adoptive parent speaking from experience so this book provides good, practical advice and encouragement for the mothering figure when things are not following the normal attachment and development patterns… This highly readable book is highly recommended for everyone fostering or adopting very young children.'- Adoption and Fostering`Written by an adoptive parent [this book aims] to give practical advice and parenting tips to other adoptive and long-term foster parents. The author's basic premise is that all children who have been adopted or placed in long-term care have undergone some form of psychological hurt. She argues that while some children will be more resilient to this hurt than others, many children will need their hurt to be acknowledged by their parents/carers, and be allowed to grieve for their losses in order to move forward to a life of greater well-being and fulfilment. [The book begins] by exploring such issues as bringing a child home, child development and what to do when things "don't seem quite right". Other issues covered are the effects of trauma on a child, and how to handle specific difficulties that may arise with an adopted child. [It is] written in a clear easy-to-read format, and contain[s] a list of references for further reading.'- Family MattersTrade Review[Reviewed with Next Steps] `Combining thorough and pertinent research with practical wisdom drawn from years of personal experience, these books manage the rare accomplishment of being both informed and passionate. They provide a clear, accessible account of contemporary research and theory on the effects of trauma in infancy and childhood, along with a wealth of tested ideas, approaches and techniques for living and working effectively with children who have suffered such trauma… Both volumes should be of immense value to adopters, foster carers, social workers with looked after children, family placement workers and anyone who seeks to improve their understanding of child development and childhood trauma.' -- Adoption and Fostering`So little adoption research seems rooted in the real world. Now Caroline Archer, an adoptive parent herself, has written two working sourcebooks that seek to provide practical solutions to very practical problems. First Steps looks at adoption of what are described as "tiddlers and toddlers", dealing with everything from building a relationship to dealing with, say, the challenges of insecure attachment. For parents who adopt babies this book will be helpful. It uses popular psychology to make sense of child development theory and intersperses this with practical exercises. These look at life story work, contact with birth families, eating patterns, sleep and the over-riding importance of play. Archer is good here at alerting adoptive parents to those triggers which might re-awaken memories of earlier abuse or neglect… Next Steps deals with "tykes and teens". It looks at a similar range of potential hazards, such as addictive behaviour, sexual acting out and drug and alcohol use, all now, arguably, the birth-right of any parent. Of particular use here is a section called "Principles into Practice" where a range of scenarios is proposed with possible outcomes. These could also serve as training material. Both books are grounded in hard won experience.' -- Community Care`Primarily aimed at adoptive parents, but of considerable use to foster carers of young children, this publication approaches attachment and developmental issues arising when even the smallest child is in your care. Extremely well researched, it offers practical, sensitive guidance through the dark areas of separation, loss and trauma in early childhood. It reassures that no problem faced as a result of your child's early experiences is insignificant or undeserving of a solution. Neither is the reader patronised by assumptions that some matters should already be common knowledge. Archer sets out purposefully to encourage confidence and thereby to enable enjoyment of the young life in your care, confessing this to be the book she herself would have welcomed 20 years ago.' -- Foster Care`This book is written by a parent who has direct experience of the difficulties that very young children can present to their new parents. The seven chapters are eminently readable and offer very useful methods of helping to understand and work to alleviate the hurt felt by very young children who have been or are in the process of being transferred to new permanent situations, whether by adoption or fostering. The chapters are not loaded with references for the reader to wade through, although the information is provided at the back of the book, along with a no-nonsense, very understandable glossary of the jargon (which has been kept to a minimum anyway). The style of the writer made me feel able to grasp immediately what she was trying to explain, with the illustrations involving the family of hedgehogs bringing the sensitivity of the content alive for me. The sense of intimacy in the book made me want to read more. It offers new parents and professionals everywhere a practical guide in a delightful, sensitive, and above all, informative way. I thoroughly recommend it and will go out and buy the next companion book "Tykes and Teens".' -- Professional Social Work`A "must have" book for both adoptive parents and for those professionals who help adoptive families forge new family ties…the author, herself an adoptive parent, addresses a wide variety of very complex topics with a marked sensitivity to the varying needs of children who may have had a wide range of early life experiences. Although in general the text is easy to read and understand, there is a glossary for those who might be unfamiliar with some of the terminology. References are made to well established issues as well as to some of the newer research on the impact of early abuse and neglect on brain development. I particularly appreciated the special focus on identifying abnormal arousal patterns and helping the child with these. Parents and professionals alike will value the specific ideas provided for coping with problem behaviours and for building closer family ties.' -- from the Foreword by Dr Vera FahlbergTable of ContentsForeword by Dr Vera Fahlberg, MD. 1. Coming Home. 2. New Beginnings. 3. When Things don't Seem Quite Right. 4. The Effects of Trauma on Attachment and Development. 5. Getting Back on Track. 6. Special Difficulties with your Family. 7. The Spiritual Dimension. Closing Thoughts. Glossary. References and Recommended Reading.

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Book SynopsisWritten by an experienced adoptive parent, this clear, sensitive and practical handbook is designed to encourage and support adoptive and long-term foster parents, their children and adolescents. An adopted child may well have suffered abuse, neglect or inconsistent parenting in the past; he or she will certainly have experienced painful separations and losses. These early traumatic experiences, often expressed in emotional and behavioural problems within the family, can conceal a broad range of subtle alterations to the brain and nervous system of the developing child. They may become increasingly problematic as the youngster approaches the developmental challenges of adolescence.Drawing on both firsthand experience and some of the latest medical research, Caroline Archer presents strategies to help parents deal with their youngsters' troubling behaviour and to make them feel more comfortable, in what seems to them a hostile world.Archer sets out to provide adoptive and foster parents with an understanding of the complex range of difficulties with which their children may struggle as a result of their early experience of adversity. By exploring, in very simple ways, the effects of adverse experiences on the child's built-in biological response systems, she assists parents to make sense of the frequently perplexing behaviours of the hurt child within their family. Common situations which she specifically addresses include: sleep problems; anger, aggression and violence; lying and stealing; staying out late and running away; addictive behaviours and self harm; impulsiveness and risk-taking; sex; suicide and compulsive eating disorders.Following on from First Steps in Parenting the Child Who Hurts: Tiddlers and Toddlers (2nd edition), Next Steps will be an invaluable resource for adoptive and foster parents seeking to support their child through the later stages of childhood and adolescence. This book will also be an essential practical guide for professionals working with families and eager to gain a thorough understanding of the on-going developmental and relationship difficulties of adopted children.Trade ReviewIf you don't buy another book buy this one. For adoptive parents and foster carers, and for professionals working in either field, this is a must. Here the perplexing behaviours that drive us to despair and seriously threaten relationships, are explored with great sensitivity and a depth of understanding that has long been awaited. Caroline Archer draws upon new medical research to illustrate the changes to the brain and development of young people who have endured early trauma, and uses first hand experiences to provide a practical guide to the egg-shell-strewn daily journey with pre-teens and adolescents, All the problems we thought were ours alone – and surely due to our personal mismanagement – are explained here in this clear and well-constructed publication. Easy to read, it tackles with honesty all circumstances from bed-wetting to suicide attempts, lying to exploitation, sexuality to addictions and self-injury to protection of siblings. It also offers reassurance, encouragement and strategies allowing you to recognise and reach out to the child who hurts. -- Foster Care[Reviewed with First Steps] 'The holistic approach makes it particularly relevant to occupational therapists. They will be pleased to see references to neurological development and a mention of the value of sensory integration for some children whose trauma has caused tactile defensiveness or some other sensory problem. However, the majority of the chapters rightly deal with the psychological aspects. The focus on parents and carers does not prevent realistic advice on when to seek help from professionals. A sympathetic understanding of the children's feelings is balanced by a real concern for the needs of carers and the rest of the family. There is a clear recognition that firm boundaries are essential and there is frequent emphasis on positive approaches… I have found “Tykes and Teens” so supportive in my work with children who hurt and their foster or adoptive families that I am recommending it to parents and colleagues alike. I also recommend it to all NAPOT members who are involved in this field.' -- NAPOT Journal…this is a clear, sensitive and extremely practical handbook which looks at the reasons behind difficult behaviour, especially the effects of early trauma in a child's life, as well as suggesting strategies for dealing with it… This is a must-have book for adopters and foster carers and is also highly recommended for ordinary parents and step-parents whose children hurt for other reasons. If you are only in the early stages of considering adopting or fostering, it may open your eyes to issues you have not considered but try not to let its realism put you off unnecessarily. Not all children who have been through the care system have extreme problems, especially if they are given the sensitive support suggested here. -- Adoption and FosteringThis book follows on logically from the First Steps book and continues the challenging journey through childhood and into adolescence… In essence this is a book about love, and the ability to express it towards the adopted child, despite persistent and often extreme tests of that love. The author uses innovative imagery to explain the effects of emotional trauma early in the adopted child's life which may result in the “scared kid”, the “stuffed kid” and finally the “superkid”. The “looking glass” model is particularly effective at describing the marked perceptual differences that may arise between the child and the parent… A large section of the book is devoted to a review of specific sensitive situations that commonly arise… These range from bedwetting to stealing to self-injury and suicide. No attempt is made to offer all the answers and indeed the author emphasises that only the parent will know what is right for their own particular family and set of circumstances. This is another excellent book which draws on the real experiences of many adoptive parents and their families… For some the solutions suggested will not prove appropriate and for others very different problems will arise. However the basic tenets of the book deserve the widest possible readership amongst all those involved with adoptive children. -- Ed Abrahamson, Consultant Paediatrician, for Adoption UK JournalThe author's basic premise is that all children who have been adopted or placed in long-term care have undergone some form of psychological hurt. She argues that while some children will be more resilient to this hurt than others, many children will need their hurt to be acknowledged by their parents/carers, and be allowed to grieve for their losses in order to move forward to a life of greater well-being and fulfillment. [The book begins] by exploring such issues as bringing a child home, child development and what to do when things “don't seem quite right”. Other issues covered are the effects of trauma on a child, and how to handle specific difficulties that may arise with an adopted child. -- Family MattersNext Steps deals with “tykes and teens”. It looks at... potential hazards, such as addictive behaviour, sexual acting out and drug and alcohol use, all now, arguably, the birth-right of any parent. Of particular use here is a section called “Principles into Practice” where a range of scenarios is proposed with possible outcomes. These could also serve as training material…grounded in hard won experience. -- Community CareTable of ContentsForeword by Professor David Howe. What is Adoption UK? Introduction. 1. Coming Home. 2. More Beginnings: Continuing Child Development. 3. When Things Don't Seem Quite Right. 4. Through the Looking Glass. 5. Fundamental Principles. 6. Principles into Practice. 7. Sensitive Situations. Glossary. References. Hope Against Hope.

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Book SynopsisThe parenting of teenagers has emerged as a key public, political and social concern in recent years and Supporting Parents of Teenagers meets the growing need for relevant resources and research findings in this area. This handbook provides a review of current policy developments, from crime and disorder legislation to youth offending teams. It addresses the practical issues of how to assess and provide support for parents and covers all aspects of the field, including parenting orders, the use of the parent advisor model, setting up a parenting teenagers group, involving fathers as well as mothers of teenagers and working with ethnic minorities. Examining the conflicting needs of young people and their parents and how best to address them, this book is an essential resource for all those working to support the parents of teenagers.Trade ReviewSupporting Parents of Teenagers tackles many questions regarding both policy and practice, and is therefore an extremely welcome addition to the literature. The book is entirely readable, clearly structured, bringing together a collection of writers from a variety of areas and expertise, who are addressing a wide range of issues. The book sets out to share the existing information about both research and practice between all those involved in the field of parenting teenagers. In this reviewer's opinion it succeeds in doing more than that, as it not only brings together some of the most up-to-date research findings, but also addresses questions about the purpose of providing support for parents and offers ways forward in relation to future policy and practice. -- Infant and Child DevelopmentAll the contributors to this handbook for professionals are engaged in providing support services to parents of adolescents... Social workers, GPs and teachers may not have the time or expertise to provide continuing support, but at least they should know where it might be found. This collection does a useful job of describing what is available, including chapters on teenagers from ethnic minorities, families caught up in the youth justice system, and telephone helplines. -- Community CareSupporting Parents of Teenagers: A Handbook for Professionals, through its varied testimonies and examples from the many worlds of parents and teenagers provides a resource for continuous concerns about the lived experience of parents and teenagers. -- British Journal of Social WorkTable of ContentsChapter 1. Parenting and public policy, John Coleman and Debi Roker, TSA. Chapter 2. The needs of parents and teenagers, John Coleman, TSA. Chapter 3. Supporting black and minority ethnic teenagers and their parents, Leandra Box, Race Equality Unit. Chapter 4. Parenting and youth crime, Clem Henricson, National Family and Parenting Institute. Chapter 5. Working with parents in the youth justice context, Sarah Lindfield and Janice Cusick, TSA. Chapter 6. Providing support through telephone helplines, Dorit Braun, Parentline Plus. Chapter 7. Using the Parent Adviser model to support parents of teenagers, Hilton Davis, Guys, Kings and St Thomas's School of Medicine and Crispin Day. Chapter 8. Setting up a parenting teenagers group, Dirk Uitterdijk and Jo Pitt. Chapter 9. Schools as a context for working with parents: the `living with teenagers…supporting parents' projects, Debi Roker and Helen Richardson, TSA. Chapter 10. Professional development in the parenting context, Mary Crowley, Parenting Education and Support Forum. Chapter 11. The parenting of teenagers: Present and future, Debi Roker and John Coleman, TSA. References. Index.

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