People with autism often experience difficulty in understanding and expressing their emotions and react to losses in different ways or in ways that carers do not understand. In order to provide effective support, carers need to have the understanding, the skills and appropriate resources to work through these emotional reactions with them. Autism and Loss is a complete resource that covers a variety of kinds of loss, including bereavement, loss of friends or staff, loss of home or possessions and loss of health. Rooted in the latest research on loss and autism, yet written in an accessible style, the resource includes a wealth of factsheets and practical tools that provide formal and informal carers with authoritative, tried and tested guidance. This is an essential resource for professional and informal carers working with people with autism who are coping with any kind of loss.

This practical resource is designed to help professionals, parents and carers as they support children with vision impairments to develop independence in everyday tasks. Using the Early Years Foundation Stage framework as a basis, it provides a wealth of strategies and activities to develop key skills, including dressing, maintaining personal hygiene, eating and drinking and road safety. This is an invaluable tool that can be dipped in and out of to help make learning fun, boosting the child's confi dence and helping create a positive 'can- do' attitude when faced with new challenges. This book: Addresses the main problem areas for babies and young visually impaired children and their families, by providing simple explanations of skills and offering strategies and techniques to support progression onto the next stage. Is written in a fully accessible style, with photocopiable pages and additional downloadable resources. Provides a variety of documentation to chart the child's development and show progress over time. Research shows strong indicators that early intervention can reduce or eliminate developmental delays in children with a vision impairment. The supporting strategies in this book help busy professionals and carers to make every opportunity a learning opportunity, allowing children with a vision impairment to become confi dent and independent individuals.

There should be no shame in the fact that parenting a child with Autism can be difficult and sometimes dark. There are how to "cure" your child of autism books which can leave parents feeling like a failure if those "cures" fall flat and there are many books that punctuate the "blessings". The Dark Side of Autism focuses on the importance of healing yourself and family while accepting when something may be out of your control. This book will remind parents that it's ok to grieve the loss of a child and the broken dreams you unmistakably had for them. It will help parents and caregivers come to terms that heartbreak and disappointment can be a big part of the diagnosis but also gives tips on how to break through the darkness and grief to see the light.

In the book Witness 2 Healing, Angus Gordon decribes his journey to health after suffering the excruciating pain of spinal cord stenosis.

Outspoken and with a firm belief in hilmself, Angus describes how he chose to heal his body his way without medication or surgery. Despite cautioning readers to obtain a medical opinion, Angus also provides a step-by-step process of basic healthy living choices for others to follow. Thses include appropriate exercises, nutrition, posture and mindset. Some delicious recipes are also included.

Witness 2 Healing is simply written, speaks directly to the reader and provides a refreshing insight into an alternative healing.

While much has been written about dyslexia and literacy, little has been written about dyslexia and counselling. Good counselling remediates problems in relationships. Good teaching remediates problems in literacy. When the principles of effective counselling combine with the principles of effective literacy teaching, then dyslexia becomes not only manageable but potent, a source of individual strength and wisdom.

This book is designed to be a practical resource for busy counsellors and therapists working with dyslexic clients in the time-constrained world of modern therapy. It is also a reference for anyone who is interested in the counselling perspective on dyslexia: parents, teachers and anyone working in, for example primary care or the social services.

One of BookRiot's Ten Best Disability Books of 2023.

A manifesto exploding what we think we know about disability, and arguing that disabled people are the real experts when it comes to technology and disability.

When bioethicist and professor Ashley Shew became a self-described “hard-of-hearing chemobrained amputee with Crohn’s disease and tinnitus,” there was no returning to “normal.” Suddenly well-meaning people called her an “inspiration” while grocery shopping or viewed her as a needy recipient of technological wizardry. Most disabled people don’t want what the abled assume they want―nor are they generally asked. Almost everyone will experience disability at some point in their lives, yet the abled persistently frame disability as an individual’s problem rather than a social one.

In a warm, feisty voice and vibrant prose, Shew shows how we can create better narratives and more accessible futures by drawing from the insights of the cross-disability community. To forge a more equitable world, Shew argues that we must eliminate “technoableism”―the harmful belief that technology is a “solution” for disability; that the disabled simply await being “fixed” by technological wizardry; that making society more accessible and equitable is somehow a lesser priority.

This badly needed introduction to disability expertise considers mobility devices, medical infrastructure, neurodivergence, and the crucial relationship between disability and race. The future, Shew points out, is surely disabled―whether through changing climate, new diseases, or even through space travel. It’s time we looked closely at how we all think about disability technologies and learn to envision disabilities not as liabilities, but as skill sets enabling all of us to navigate a challenging world.

Young, Disabled and LGBT+ brings together the work of an international team interested in exploring the intersection of sexuality, gender identity, and disability in the lives of young people and aims to further develop this area as a distinct area of study. This volume features original research and writing into lives that are often misunderstood, marginalised and under-represented in research. It is framed with artwork, poetry and writing from young disabled LGBT+ people, and centralises the voices and lives of young disabled LGBT+ people throughout. Drawing from disciplines including: sociology, psychology, disability and youth studies, and with contributions from practitioners, it examines experiences and research from a number of perspectives, such as education, personal lives and activism. Featuring work from the UK, Canada, United States, India and Australia, it is a timely and topical book which will appeal to scholars particularly interested in sexuality, gender, disability and youth studies; professionals within health, education, social work and youth work who aim to understand and support young disabled LGBT+ people; and young people themselves.

Language which develops 'against all the odds' is very precious. Words were not enough for Tom; it was signs that made sense of a world silenced by meningitis. Confidence came via joyful and positive steps to communication from babyhood; a brush with epilepsy, a cochlear implant in his teens and life as an independent young adult followed.

Ten years after the results of the Cash and Counseling Demonstration and Evaluation were released, this book assesses the impact of this study, which developed individualized plans for helping people with disabilities to stay independent in the community. The study was the first wide-scale test of people with disabilities managing their own budgets and results from the random-controlled trial demonstrated significant positive outcomes, encouraging the US federal and state governments to provide this option as part of their community-based care programs. This volume looks at what people with disabilities and their caregivers are saying about this option ten years removed from the study, and what the latest research shows in terms of what it will take to improve this approach, making the option available for all people with disabilities. The contributions also discuss what needs remain unmet even when people can manage their own budgets, and present participants' and their family caregivers' views on what support broker activities really help (or hurt). Finally, the book summarizes the results of a project involving the Council of Social Work Education and nine schools of social work to develop modules to train future social workers on person-centred planning and participant direction. Of interest to those researchers studying social care with a focus on disabilities, this book would also be of use to those training social workers and support staff. The chapters in this book were originally published in the Journal of Gerontological Social Work and Home Health Care Services Quarterly.

Discover the importance of family in the treatment of schizophrenia!
Family Involvement in Treating Schizophrenia: Models, Essential Skills, and Process is a vital resource for developing clinical skills and programs designed to increase family involvement in the treatment of schizophrenia. The book is a "hands-on" learning tool to be used as a broad overview of many intervention models and/or for a more focused look at a particular model with details of its use, implementation, and effectiveness. Dr. James A. Marley presents case studies and vignettes of each intervention model in action, highlighting specific techniques and skills. He also examines self-help and family advocacy programs, and addresses professional issues that have a direct impact on the provision of family services.
Family Involvement in Treating Schizophrenia: Models, Essential Skills, and Process examines the practical application of family therapy when working with families coping with schizophrenia. The book addresses the importance of family involvement, the different types of intervention models that best serve the family, the founding principles behind the major intervention models, how to design and implement the right model, and how family issues impact service delivery. It includes recommendations for additional reading and listings of related Internet resources. Among the therapies examined include: psychodynamic Bowenian experiential structural strategic systemic/Milan cognitive-behavioral narrative solution-focused multiple families psychoeducational Family Involvement in Treating Schizophrenia: Models, Essential Skills, and Process is a primary source of information for clinicians and studentsthat's equally effective as a professional resource and as a textbook. The book is invaluable as an aid to developing sensitivity to the special needs of families coping with this debilitating disorder.

This volume addresses disability in theatre, and features all new work, including critical essays, interviews, personal essays, and an original play. It fills a gap in scholarship while promoting the profile of disability in theatre. Peering Behind the Curtain examines the issues surrounding disability in many well-known plays, including Children of a Lesser God, The Elephant Man, 'night Mother and Wit, as well as an original play by James McDonald.

This collection begins with two premises: that our understanding of the nature and forms of creativity in later life remains limited and that dialogue between specialists in gerontology, the arts and humanities can produce the crucial new insights that are so obviously needed. Representing the outcome of ongoing dialogue across the disciplinary divide, the contributions of this volume reflect anew on what we share and how we differ; creating new narratives so as to build an understanding of late-life creativity that goes far beyond the narrow confines of the pervasively received idea of 'late style'. Creativity in Later Life encompasses a range of personal reflections and discussions of the boundaries of creativity, including: Canonical artistic achievements to community art projects Narratives of carers for those living with dementia Analyses of creative theory Through these insightful chapters, the authors consequently offer an understanding of creativity in later life as varied, socialised and - above all - located in the cultural and economic circumstances of the here and now. This title will appeal to academics, practitioners and students in the various gerontological, arts and humanities fields; and to anyone with an interest in the nature of creativity in later life and the forms it takes.

A thorough and comprehensive guide for both education professionals and those affected by dyslexia, this book is predominantly a guidebook. It includes lots of practical advice and is based on the authors' sound knowledge of current theory and practice. It includes: photocopiable materials contact and reference details personal organisation advice ways forward for potential problems information on secondary or associated difficulties.

This handbook provides a much-needed holistic overview of disability and sexuality research and scholarship. With authors from a wide range of disciplines and representing a diversity of nationalities, it provides a multi-perspectival view that fully captures the diversity of issues and outlooks. Organised into six parts, the contributors explore long-standing issues such as the psychological, interpersonal, social, political and cultural barriers to sexual access that disabled people face and their struggle for sexual rights and participation. The volume also engages issues that have been on the periphery of the discourse, such as sexual accommodations and support aimed at facilitating disabled people's sexual well-being; the socio-sexual tensions confronting disabled people with intersecting stigmatised identities such as LGBTBI or asexual; and the sexual concerns of disabled people in the Global South. It interrogates disability and sexuality from diverse perspectives, from more traditional psychological and sociological models, to various subversive and post-theoretical perspectives and queer theory. This handbook examines the cutting-edge, and sometimes ethically contentious, concerns that have been repressed in the field. With current, international and comprehensive content, this book is essential reading for students, academics and researchers in the areas of disability, gender and sexuality, as well as applied disciplines such as healthcare practitioners, counsellors, psychology trainees and social workers.

Traditionally, the most preferred social research methods in dementia studies have been interviews, focus groups and non-participant observations. Most of these methods have been used for a long time by researchers in other social research fields, but their application to the field of dementia studies is a relatively new phenomenon. A ground-breaking book, Social Research Methods in Dementia Studies shows researchers how to adapt their methods of data collection to address the individual needs of someone who is living with dementia. With an editorial team that includes Ann Johnson, a trained nurse and person living with dementia, this enlightening volume mainly draws its contents from two interdisciplinary social research teams in dementia, namely the Center for Dementia Research [CEDER] at Linkoeping University in Norrkoeping, Sweden and the Dementia and Ageing Research Team [DART] at The University of Manchester in Manchester, UK. Case examples are shared in each of the main chapters to help ground the social research method(s) in a real-life context and provide direction as to how learning can be applied to other settings. Chapters also contain key references and recommended reading. This volume will appeal to undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as postdoctoral researchers, interested in fields such as: Research Methods, Qualitative Methods and Dementia Studies.

In 2011 the world was shocked when the news broke that Joost van der Westhuizen, known for years as the golden boy of South African rugby and a former Springbok captain, had been diagnosed with motor neuron disease (MND).

This rare condition attacks the central nervous system, causing progressive disability. There is no known cure. All who have seen Joost in action will know that he is not one to give up without a fight. His game-changing prowess as a brilliant scrum half is now focused on a battle for survival and, more importantly, on making a difference to the lives of others with the disease. In a race against time, Joost has a dream to fulfil. He says: “In the beginning you go through all the emotions and you ask, ‘Why me?’ It’s quite simple. ‘Why not me?’ If I have to go through this to help future generations, why not me?” His acceptance of his symptoms is equally pragmatic: “One day you can’t move your arm, another day you don’t have speech. Every day you are reborn and you take the day as it comes.”

Glory Game – The Joost van der Westhuizen Story is a compelling narrative of redemption set against the backdrop of an illustrious career in rugby. It is the story of a modern-day warrior forced to face his own human frailty. Joost shows us that beyond ambition, success and fame lies the true wealth of family and friends, and that within a ravaged body the spirit can remain invincible.

An inspiring true story of a life devoted to helping Downs children. Alex Bell is a 53 year old woman who lives in Swinton, on the outskirts of Manchester. She is feisty, funny with a real firecracker of a personality. She has needed that strength of character for Alex is the adoptive mother of 8 children with Downs Syndrome or other disabilities, children who some parts of society would perhaps prefer to forget. Age 28 and unmarried, Alex adopted her first Downs child, Matthew - and became one of the first people in the UK to be approved for adoption as a single woman. Amazingly, she went on to take eight more children under her wing, Simon, Adrian, Nathan, Andrew, Chloe, Tom, Emily and Callum. Some had been through a frustratingly bureaucratic care system, or moved from one foster parent to another. It sometimes seemed an impossible challenge, but Alex was determined to give these children stability, love and the best life possible. With her down-to-earth charm, Alex also brings together the families often torn apart by Downs. She encourages the birth families to get together - some of whom have sadly turned their backs on their son or daughter, but others have now long been happily involved in their children's lives. The nine children each have unique, sometimes heartbreaking stories, but they are also the most joyful, compelling and fascinating children you're ever likely to meet: Happy-to-lucky Matthew, 24, who takes people on tours of Man. Utd - the only Downs child to be given such a privileged position, and testament to Alex's care Adrian, the family timekeeper and numbers wiz, as if born with a clock inside his brain Chloe, the lovable, mischievous scamp known as Little Miss Dynamite Prepare to be amazed, moved and entranced by this powerful true story that will change the way we all look at disabilities. Alex believes special needs children are 'gifts', and spending any time with her it becomes obvious that she also has a very special gift of her own.

First published in 1984, this book focuses on the support and reassurance needed by parents of children with handicaps. It provides a practical guide in relation to daily care and is equally as relevant to professionals, therapists, teachers, doctors and psychologists who must advise parents. Written by an Occupational Therapist, the book highlights the need to make such children as independent as possible and gives advice on care of a special baby, modifications to the home environment, the needs of a child with a physical handicap, problems of educational handicap, and the place of a child in the family and community.

Being autistic, you might come across more challenges than others around you, such as dealing with ableism, discrimination in employment or difficulties in your relationships. Learning to successfully self-advocate will help you to build confidence, strengthen your relationships and ensure your needs are met. Written by two autistic activists, this book will give you the tools and strategies to advocate for yourself in any situation. It covers specific scenarios including work, school, and family and relationships, as well as looking at advocacy for the wider community, whether that's through social media, presentations or writing. Additionally, the book provides advice on building independence, developing your skills, standing up for others and resolving conflict. The authors also explore the overall impact of self-advocacy in all areas of your life, building a sense of confidence, resilience and control. Drawing on the authors' extensive experience, this book will help you to successfully prioritise your needs and rights, challenge what is unfair or unjust and make your voice heard.

Effective use of ICT can enhance many dyslexic pupils' access to the curriculum, but it has to be used appropriately. This book will be useful to all teachers, teaching assistants, SENCOs and parents who are keen to have practical advice on how to help a child in this way. Full of strategies and suggestions that are based on the author's extensive classroom experience, this accessible book is suitable for the ICT novice and more advanced user alike. The book has been fully updated to guide the user through the maze of hardware and software currently available, identifying those most suitable for different Key Stages and curriculum subjects as well as providing ICT solutions to the problems of assessing and screening for dyslexia.

Entertainers Roy and Dale Evans Rogers were thrilled when their little daughter Robin was born. But their excitement turned to concern when they were informed that Robin was born with Down's Syndrome and advised to "put her away." The Rogers ignored such talk and instead kept Robin, and she graced their home for two and a half years. Though Robin's time on earth was short, she changed her parents' lives and even made life better for other children born with special needs in the years to come.
Angel Unaware is Robin's account of her life as she looks down from heaven. As she speaks to God about the mission of love she just completed on earth, the reader sees how she brought her parents closer to God and encouraged them to help other children in need.
This book, which changed the way America treated children with special needs, is now available to a new generation. It is the perfect gift for parents of special needs children, parents grieving the death of a child, or anyone whose life has been touched by a special child.

Filled with strategies and advice, this empowering guide presents practical ways to improve the mental wellbeing of people on the Autism Spectrum. This helpful guide focusses on the specific difficulties that can arise for people on the autism spectrum who may also experience a mental illness. The book includes information on common mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, as well as strategies for improving sleep patterns and mindfulness. Providing guidance on the benefits and drawbacks of therapy pets, medication, and psychotherapy, the authors offer balanced perspectives on treatment options and introduce self-help strategies tailored to meet your needs and improve your mental wellbeing. A number of short personal narratives from people on the autism spectrum and mental health issues illustrate the text. The book also includes a list of resources, books and organisations that can provide further support and inspiration.

The new edition of Dyslexia is written for parents of dyslexic children and the professionals who work with them, and provides information on the role parents can play in supporting their dyslexic child. This updated edition contains new material and up-to-date discussions of current research and programs. * Empowers parents by providing them with strategies for dealing with a wide range of concerns including dyspraxia and dyscalculia * New sections cover post-school issues, the emotional needs of young people with dyslexia and information on how parents can help at home * Features information on some of the more popular interventions for dyslexia, and critical evaluations of alternative treatments * Includes first hand accounts of parents hopes, successes and setbacks, and extensive lists of organizations and resources