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Yoga for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents and Caregivers
by Stacey W. Betts Dion BettsHaving successfully used yoga to combat the stress of their own busy lives, Dion and Stacey Betts discovered its potential for their son Joshua, who has Asperger Syndrome. This fully-illustrated book combines the authors' professional expertise with their experience of parenting, offering a range of gentle and fun yoga positions and breathing techniques that are effective in dealing with the increased levels of anxiety, disorientation and tactile sensitivity often found in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The authors give step-by-step descriptions of warming-up, strengthening, calming, and tension-releasing exercises that are suitable for reducing coping mechanisms, such as hand-flapping, and increasing muscle tone, muscle strength and body awareness. They also offer a range of short and long sequences that can be tailored to fit the needs of the individual child. Yoga for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders is ideal for parents and caregivers who want to use simple yoga techniques to help children with ASDs overcome some of the symptoms of the disorder.
Visual Perception Problems in Children with AD/HD, Autism, and Other Learning Disabilities: A Guide for Parents and Professionals
by Lisa A. KurtzThis book provides a comprehensive overview of vision problems in children with developmental disabilities such as AD/HD, autism spectrum disorders, and specific learning disabilities. Written in a very accessible style, it is appropriate for parents and professionals alike and offers non-technical explanations of how vision difficulties are screened for and advice on where to seek appropriate professional care. Lisa Kurtz outlines a range of activities for strengthening children's functional vision and perceptual skills using simple, homemade materials that are readily available in the home or classroom. This is an excellent practical companion for parents of children with visual perception problems and the professionals who work with them.
Parenting Across the Autism Spectrum: Unexpected Lessons We Have Learned
by Ann Palmer Maureen MorrellMaureen F. Morrell and Ann Palmer are raising two very different children: Justin, a whirlwind of activity and mood swings, who is supervised in a residential farm community, and Eric, quiet and passive, who lives independently at college. The authors give an account of the striking similarities as well as the stark differences in their experiences of parenting children at opposite extremes of the autism spectrum. The two mothers speak openly about their children's diagnosis and early childhood through to adolescence, young adulthood and the day they leave home. They give a moving account of the challenges they faced and the surprising consolations they found along their sons' very different paths in life. Through their friendship and two decades of shared experiences of parenting an ASD child, each has gained a clear understanding of her own strengths and limitations, as well as those of her child. Parenting Across the Autism Spectrum offers a personal perspective and practical guidance for parents at the start of their journey with autism, especially those whose children are newly diagnosed. It also provides useful insights for professionals working with individuals across the autism spectrum and their families. The book was elected the 2007 Autism Society of America's Outstanding Literary Work of the Year.
Friendships: The Aspie Way
by Wendy LawsonPeople with Asperger's Syndrome have difficulty with interpersonal relationships, yet are well known to be loyal and dependable friends. Wendy Lawson felt she had a knack for upsetting people and was surprised to be told that she 'did friendship rather well'. In her frank and thoughtful analysis of what makes and breaks friendships, she explores what it means to have friends or be a friend - even a friend to oneself; what happens when times are tough and friends are scarce; whether one can be a 'good friend' without effort; and what other kinds of friendships there are, whether imaginary, animal or inanimate. These ideas are accompanied by practical examples, poetry and stories. Insightful and relevant to people both on and off the autism spectrum, Friendships: The Aspie Way is a fresh approach to a universal issue in human relationships.
An Introduction to Dyslexia for Parents and Professionals
by Alan M. Hultquist'This book does exactly what it says on the tin! Hultquist deals with the causes, types and sub types of dyslexia. He explains how dyslexia is diagnosed and remediated and gives appendices on agencies, resources and practical classroom strategies. I would highly recommend this book to parents who have just received a dyslexia diagnosis in the family, to professionals working with those with dyslexia and to specialist teachers to have as a handy reference/refresher tool. For all these audiences, 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 Contact 'This short, to - the- point book is an absolute "must buy" for any parent with a child with dyslexia, or any teacher with a child with dyslexia in her class. I asked a parent of a child with dyslexia to read this book and give me an honest opinion. Her reply is as good a recommendation as any review I can write: "I could see my son straight away. I now understand why he has particular reading and writing difficulties. I hope his teacher reads this book and is able to take note of this author's advice.".' - Special Children Magazine 'This is only a short book, but it is a model of consciousness and clarity. It covers much ground and should fulfill its purpose as an introduction for both parents and teachers who wish to increase their understanding of dyslexia.' -The School Librarian Journal This practical guide provides basic need-to-know information for parents and professionals and answers frequently asked questions about dyslexia. Using illustrative case studies, Alan M. Hultquist addresses many of the issues surrounding dyslexia, including possible causes and subtypes, means of testing, remediation and the controversial matter of "staying back" to repeat a school year. He identifies possible methods of classroom accommodation for dyslexic students in a range of subject areas. The list of useful resources at the back of the book can be used by parents and professionals to help explain dyslexia to children, and to help them find further information and teaching tools. This complete introductory guide to dyslexia is a must-read for parents of children with dyslexia, especially parents with children who are newly diagnosed, and for all those who work with dyslexic children and their families.
The Autism Spectrum and Further Education: A Guide to Good Practice
by Christine BreakeyThis guide for professionals working with students with autism spectrum conditions (ASCs) in further education meets the increasing demand for information and support on this subject. Christine Breakey provides useful guidelines and practical advice on teaching young adults successfully and confidently, emphasising the development of resources and practical skills for use specifically in FE colleges. The author covers all the key areas and offers strategies and solutions for communicating effectively, helping students to manage transition, and understanding and minimising the causes of ASC behaviours as well as teaching social skills and ASC self-awareness. The Autism Spectrum and Further Education will be a vital resource for professionals in FE institutions who have to meet the needs of young adults with ASCs.
Do You Understand Me?: My Life, My Thoughts, My Autism Spectrum Disorder
by Sofie Koborg BrosenSofie Koborg Brøsen is eleven years old and, like other children of her age, goes to a mainstream school, loves reading comics and being with her family and her cat, Teddy. But Sofie is not the same as everyone else - she has autism spectrum disorder. Fed up with being misunderstood by her classmates, she has written a book about her world so others can learn to understand her, and vice versa. Sofie describes her day-to-day life in clear, unambiguous language and tells readers about things she finds difficult: being given too many instructions, disruptions to her routine, being teased, strong lights and smells and too much noise. She also tells about what she really likes - feeling accepted by other children, reading, nature, her autism camp and her cat. This fully illustrated book has already attracted much positive attention in Denmark. It is a readable insider's view of life as a child with autism attending a mainstream school and will be an invaluable resource in helping other children to understand their classmates with autism spectrum disorders. Teachers, parents, carers, support workers, children with autism spectrum disorders and their classmates will find this an entertaining, informative and attitude-changing read.
Living with Dyspraxia: A Guide for Adults with Developmental Dyspraxia - Revised Edition
by Amanda Kirby Mary Colley Victoria BiggsFor people with Developmental Dyspraxia, everyday life can pose a multitude of problems. Tasks the majority of people would find simple can often be taxing and fraught with difficulty. Living with Dyspraxia was written to help all adults with Dyspraxia tackle the everyday situations that many people take for granted. It is full of practical advice on everything from getting a diagnosis to learning how to manage household chores. Important topics are addressed, such as self-esteem, whether to disclose your condition within the workplace, how to communicate more effectively and also how Dyspraxia often interacts with other conditions, such as Dyslexia, ADHD and Asperger's Syndrome. This practical resource will be of use to adults with Dyspraxia, the professionals and families members who come into contact with them as well as those who simply wish to learn more about Dyspraxia.
Dyslexia and Alternative Therapies
by Maria Chivers'A good book about how alternative therapies can help dyslexia. It mentions each therapy individually and explains what it is, how it works, how many sessions are needed, who will benefit, and if it can be done at home.' - Education Otherwise This comprehensive book offers clear and balanced information on a range of alternative therapies for individuals with dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia or ADHD. The author provides an overview of each therapeutic option, method of use and case examples, covering nutritional supplements, massage, acupuncture and hypnotherapy, among others. She also includes contributions from experienced alternative therapists, offering an insider's view of what works and what does not. Her objective approach will enable the reader to make an informed choice from among the many available options. A bibliography and a list of useful contacts are also provided. This book is a key resource for anyone interested in exploring alternative therapy approaches to dyslexia and related difficulties, particularly for parents of people with dyslexia, dyslexics themselves and the professionals who work with them.
New Developments in Autism: The Future is Today
by Manuel F. Casanova Carmen Nieto Vizcaino Pedro M. Gonzalez Juan Marto Perez Sally Wheelwright Maria Llorente ComiThis international collection provides a comprehensive overview of cutting-edge research on autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) by well-known experts in the field, stressing the importance of early diagnosis and a good working relationship between parents and professionals. The contributors cover a wide range of aspects of ASDs, from early assessment techniques, neurodevelopment and brain function to language development, executive function and genetic research. They explore how individuals with ASDs think and give evidence-based guidance on how to handle difficulties with social interaction and language development using appropriate interventions. New Developments in Autism will be of great interest to professionals, researchers, therapists, parents and people with ASDs.
The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome
by Tony AttwoodThe Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome is the definitive handbook for anyone affected by Asperger's syndrome (AS). Now including a new introduction explaining the impact of DSM-5 on the diagnosis and approach to AS, it brings together a wealth of information on all aspects of the syndrome for children through to adults. Drawing on case studies and personal accounts from Attwood's extensive clinical experience, and from his correspondence with individuals with AS, this book is both authoritative and extremely accessible. Chapters examine: * causes and indications of the syndrome * the diagnosis and its effect on the individual * theory of mind * the perception of emotions in self and others * social interaction, including friendships * long-term relationships * teasing, bullying and mental health issues * the effect of AS on language and cognitive abilities, sensory sensitivity, movement and co-ordination skills * career development. There is also an invaluable frequently asked questions chapter and a section listing useful resources for anyone wishing to find further information on a particular aspect of AS, as well as literature and educational tools. Essential reading for families and individuals affected by AS as well as teachers, professionals and employers coming in contact with people with AS, this book should be on the bookshelf of anyone who needs to know or is interested in this complex condition. 'I usually say to the child, "Congratulations, you have Asperger's syndrome", and explain that this means he or she is not mad, bad or defective, but has a different way of thinking.' - from The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome
Replays: Using Play to Enhance Emotional and Behavioural Development for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
by Karen Levine Naomi CheddReplays addresses the challenging behaviors of children with autism spectrum disorders through interactive symbolic play. It shows parents and professionals how to help children access their emotions, whether the child is verbal or not, cognitively able or impaired, even-tempered or volatile. The chapters introduce and show readers how to implement Replays, and describe ways of adapting this intervention to address specific issues in different settings and circumstances. Levine and Chedd present more than just behavioral management strategies in the context of social, emotional and communication development: they have developed a technique that helps children to re-experience, play through and master the complex emotional response states that often lead to ongoing behavioral challenges. Replays is an easy and fun tool that provides numerous step-by-step examples and illustrations. It enables parents and professionals to guide children with autism spectrum disorders towards mastering, and changing, their emotional and behavioral responses.
Talking Teenagers: Information and Inspiration for Parents of Teenagers with Autism or Asperger's Syndrome
by Ann BoushéyAnn 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.
Asperger Syndrome in the Inclusive Classroom: Advice and Strategies for Teachers
by Lisa N. Gerber-Eckard Stacey W. Betts Dion BettsAsperger Syndrome in the Inclusive Classroom offers support and practical techniques for teachers who work with children with Asperger Syndrome (AS). Based on the successful experiences of classroom teachers, and written from a teacher's perspective, this book provides creative and easy-to-apply strategies that support and encourage AS students in the mainstream classroom, from organization and time management techniques to framing classroom instructions to make lessons more accessible for children with AS. The authors' straightforward, practical advice relates to every part of the school day and includes advice for teaching specific subject areas. They give tips on helping students navigate the school environment, how to handle social situations like lunch and breaks, and what to do during unstructured periods. This book is essential reading for teachers and school staff who want to fully include AS students in the classroom.
Brotherly Feelings: Me, My Emotions, and My Brother with Asperger's Syndrome
by Sam Frender Robin SchiffmillerIt isn't easy being eight years old and having an older brother whom other children often misunderstand. They don't realize that when he doesn't laugh at their jokes it's because he doesn't understand them. They don't know that when he doesn't speak to them or look at them it's because he doesn't know what to say or how to make eye contact. They don't realize that he behaves this way because he has something called Asperger's Syndrome. Sam knows that his brother Eric is different from him because his brain works differently. So, when the other children bully Eric, it makes Sam feel protective of him. But sometimes, when Eric behaves oddly, Sam feels embarrassed too. Sometimes, when Eric gets lots of attention, it makes Sam feel resentful - then, when he considers that Eric needs a lot of help and attention, it makes Sam feel guilty for feeling resentful. There are so many different feelings Sam experiences! Brotherly Feelings explores the emotions that siblings of children with Asperger's Syndrome (AS) commonly experience. With illustrations throughout, this book will help siblings to understand that their emotional responses - whatever they are - are natural and OK. It is the ideal book for parents and professionals to use with siblings to discuss their emotional experiences, and will also help children with AS to form an understanding of the feelings of other family members.
Autism, Play and Social Interaction
by Lone Gammeltoft Marianne Sollok NordenhofAutism, Play and Social Interaction is a fully illustrated guide that explains how to help children with autism spectrum disorders engage in interactive play, which is vital for the acquisition of social skills and attention to shared activities. The authors explain how to set up suitably structured play environments, games schedules and play routines, and how to use visual aids and other props to facilitate co-operative play and interaction. Common children's games have been adapted to accommodate children with autism spectrum disorders and range from simple interaction, such as `putting-in' and `give and take', to more complex games like `hide and seek', `sound-lotto' and `spin the bottle', as well as games that teach social behaviour, such as exchanging toys and engaging with other children for play opportunities. This is a practical and accessible book for parents and teachers of children with autism spectrum disorders, as well as professionals working with these children.
Everyday Education: Visual Support for Children with Autism
by Pernille Dyrbjerg Maria VedelVisual support aids can be highly effective tools for increasing levels of communication and independence in children with autism, who often have difficulty interpreting spoken language and non-verbal facial expressions. Fully illustrated with inspiring examples, Everyday Education provides a wealth of ideas for creating visual support aids for children on the autism spectrum. Photographs and clear, practical explanations describe how these tools can be arranged helpfully around the home for the child to use. The authors describe how visual support aids can be used in all kinds of everyday situations, from labelling - for example, sticking a picture of a dinner plate with a knife and fork to the chair in which the child sits at meal times - to putting together a pictorial activities schedule for the child to refer to. This fun and encouraging book will be a valuable source of ideas for parents of children with autism and professionals working with them.
Tales from the Table: Lovaas/ABA Intervention with Children on the Autistic Spectrum
by Margaret AndersonTales from the Table is a practitioner's account of the successes and limitations of using Lovaas/ABA home education with five young boys on the autistic spectrum. The abilities and skills of these children before, during and after intervention are documented with a focus on the realities of undertaking Lovaas/ABA home education: the impact of a 35-hour learning week on both child and parents, changing tutors and issues of commitment to the approach. Each chapter includes a commentary on the programme from a different perspective, with the voices of parents, siblings and teachers providing the context to the individual children's learning processes. This book will help parents to make an informed decision about using Lovaas/ABA interventions and will give professionals and students practical insights and useful information on the approach.
Helping Children with Nonverbal Learning Disabilities to Flourish: A Guide for Parents and Professionals
by Marilyn Martin Zion`Imagine getting lost in your own home, forgetting where the bathroom is at work, or being unable to operate a simple door knob. These are just some of the myriad challenges faced by individuals with a Nonverbal Learning Disability, or NLD...In Helping Children With Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities to Flourish, Marilyn Martin gives an overview of NLD and strategies for teaching individuals with this disability. Using examples of her struggles to help her daughter, who has NLD, as well as current research, she has written a book helpful for both parents and professionals. In addition to her experiences with her daughter, Martin is a Learning Specialist with more than fifteen years of experience working with students who have dyslexia, NLD, and other learning disorders... This book is a good introduction to NLD and interventions for treating it... As it gains recognition as a distinct learning disorder, interventions and informative books, like this one, will open doors, literally and figuratively, for families and individuals touched by NLD.' - Foreword, Autumn 2007 `Author Marilyn Martin's daughter Sara was diagnosed with Nonverbal Learning Disability (NLD). Marilyn offers a comprehensive developmental profile of children with NLD and explores the controversies surrounding the condition so parents and professionals can identify learners with NLD and ensure they receive early intervention. Offering practical advice on NLD at home and at school, the book describes step by step interventions for improving a range of skills from penmanship to social acumen.' -Autism Us, 2007 `Marilyn Martin's book Helping Children with Nonverbal Learning Disorder to Flourish is an exciting and essential new addition to the literature. ... Martin shines in her ability to match interventions to a broad range of problems and examples abound in every chapter. Clear, concise, and detailed explanations are given so that the interventions can be applied skillfully. ... Each intervention is presented in a terrifically useful and usable format that includes the problem, strengths available, proposed solution, how the solution can be generalized, the goal of the intervention, and a very up-to-date and helpful listing of relevant resources.' - from the Foreword by Michele Berg, Director, Center for Learning Disorders, Family Service and Guidance When you continuously cannot find the bathroom in your best friend's house, or you cannot print the letter `t' when all your friends are writing volumes, you notice, and you ask questions. So it was for Marilyn Martin's daughter, Sara, who was diagnosed with Nonverbal Learning Disability (NLD). This book skilfully combines a comprehensive guide to NLD with the inspiring story of how Sara transformed herself from that young girl whose existence seemed darkened by learning difficulties into the capable young woman she is today. In Helping Children with Nonverbal Learning Disabilities to Flourish, Marilyn Martin presents a comprehensive developmental profile of children with NLD. She explores the controversies surrounding the disorder so parents and professionals can identify learners with NLD and insure they receive early intervention. Offering practical advice on NLD at home and at school, she describes step-by-step interventions for improving a range of skills from penmanship to social acumen. This book is essential reading for parents and professionals working with children with NLD.
Alone Together: Making an Asperger Marriage Work
by Katrin Bentley Tony AttwoodCommunication is one of the biggest challenges faced by people with Asperger's Syndrome (AS), yet an Asperger marriage requires communication more than any other relationship. Thousands of people live in Asperger marriages without knowing the answers to important questions such as `What behaviours indicate that my spouse has AS?' `Is it worthwhile to get a diagnosis?' `Is there hope for improvement?' Katrin Bentley has been married for 18 years. Since receiving her husband's diagnosis of AS, their marriage has improved substantially. They learnt to accept each other's different approaches to life and found ways to overcome problems and misunderstandings. Today they are happily married and able to communicate effectively. Alone Together shares the struggle of one couple to rescue their marriage. It is uplifting and humorous, and includes plenty of tips to making an Asperger marriage succeed. This book offers couples hope, encouragement and strategies for their own marriages.
Counselling People on the Autism Spectrum: A Practical Manual
by Irene Estay Katherine PaxtonThe characteristics of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) present unique challenges, not only to people themselves affected, but also to counselling professionals. This manual provides counselling techniques that work not only for professionals, but also for individuals either coping with being on the spectrum themselves, or living with someone who has an ASD. Regardless of intellectual and linguistic ability, people on the autism spectrum often have significant impairments in emotional expression, regulation, and recognition, and they are known to have higher rates of depression and anxiety than the general population. This comprehensive book shows how to develop the tools necessary to help people on the spectrum cope with their emotions, anxieties, and confusion about the often overwhelming world that surrounds them. Illustrated with useful case studies, it covers a range situations where counselling may be helpful for individuals with ASD, both children and adults, families where a member is on the spectrum, and couples where a partner has ASD. It also addresses specific issues, including depression, anxiety, emotional regulation, social skills, and stress, with effective strategies for dealing with each issue. As well as being indispensable for counsellors, this book provides valuable information and advice for anyone working with people and families affected by ASDs.
Asperger Syndrome and Bullying: Strategies and Solutions
by Nick DubinBullying is a serious problem for people with Asperger Syndrome (AS), both at school and in the workplace, and displaying 'different' behavior, such as not understanding social rules or hand-flapping, exacerbates the risk of being victimized. Writing in an accessible, informal style, the author describes the bullying behavior he and other individuals have experienced, and the effect this has had on their lives. He outlines the reasons for bullying behavior and the danger of persistent recurrence if it remains unchecked, as well as the critical importance of 'involving the bystander'. Nick Dubin goes on to provide a range of effective strategies to address bullies and bullying that can be applied by parents, professionals, schools, and individuals being bullied. He stresses the importance of peer intervention, empathetic teachers, and verbal self-defense, and shows how lack of support, condemning of 'tale telling,' or even blaming the victim reinforces bullying. This book offers individuals with AS who are being bullied the opportunity to see that they are not alone, and it is an invaluable source of advice for parents, teachers, professionals and personnel managers.
Autistic Planet
by Jennifer Elder Marc ThomasAutistic Planet is a magical world where all trains run exactly to time, where people working in offices have rocking chairs, and where all kids dream of winning the chess World Cup. Join us on a journey to this alternative reality, where being different is ordinary, and being "typical" is unheard of! Full of colour illustrations and written in child-friendly rhyme, this book is ideal for children aged 6 and over. Jennifer Elder is assistant editor in a book publishing company. She and her husband have two sons, one of whom has ASD. You can read more about their family in the memoirs Sixpence House and Not Even Wrong. Jennifer is the author of Different Like Me: My Book of Autism Heroes, also published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
The Verbal Behavior Approach: How to Teach Children with Autism and Related Disorders
by Tracy Rasmussen Mary Lynch BarberaThe Verbal Behavior (VB) approach is a form of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), that is based on B.F. Skinner's analysis of verbal behavior and works particularly well with children with minimal or no speech abilities. In this book Dr. Mary Lynch Barbera draws on her own experiences as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and also as a parent of a child with autism to explain VB and how to use it. This step-by-step guide provides an abundance of information about how to help children develop better language and speaking skills, and also explains how to teach non-vocal children to use sign language. An entire chapter focuses on ways to reduce problem behavior, and there is also useful information on teaching toileting and other important self-help skills, that would benefit any child. This book will enable parents and professionals unfamiliar with the principles of ABA and VB to get started immediately using the Verbal Behavior approach to teach children with autism and related disorders.
At Home in the Land of Oz: Autism, My Sister, and Me Second Edition
by Anne BarnhillAnne's sister Becky was born in 1958, long before most people had even heard of autism. Diagnosed with 'emotional disturbance,' Becky was subjected for much of her childhood to well-meaning but futile efforts at 'rehabilitation' or 'cure,' as well as prolonged spells in institutions away from her family. Painting a vivid picture of growing up in small-town America during the Sixties, Anne describes her sister's and her own painful childhood experiences with compassion and honesty. Struggling with the separation from her sister and the emotional and financial hardships the family experienced as a result of Becky's condition, Anne nevertheless found that her sister had something that 'normal' people were unable to offer. Today she is accepting of her sister's autism and the impact, both painful and positive, it has had on both their lives. This bittersweet memoir will resonate with families affected by autism and other developmental disorders and will appeal to everyone interested in the condition.