This work is concerned with the study of children and adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD). The book provides theoretical, educational and clinical perspectives related to this disorder. The perspectives discussed are based upon past and present theories of autism, educational practices since the 1970s and recent clinical innovations. The term ASD recognizes that this is a very heterogeneous disorder that encompasses the classic autistic disorder and milder variants such as Asperger syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified. Presently, there exists a growing need for information to understand the complex educational and mental health needs of individuals with ASD. The content of this book is directed at meeting this need. For example, Section I of this book provides the reader with information concerned with theoretical foundations on the disorder and includes chapters on cognitive theories and symptomology of autism and neurological implications of autism to the ageing process. Section II provides the reader with educational best practices and includes chapters on pre-service and in-service training of teachers, successful curriculum innovations, and multicultural concerns. Section III of the book provides the reader with recent effective clinical practices and includes chapters on assessment, counselling techniques for individuals with ASD, a model of how to work with parents of children with ASD, psychotropic medication management concerns, and a comprehensive interview with an adult with ASD. The book also contains a new theoretical model to ASD which is entitled "The Control Theory of Autism".

Children and teenagers with autism can struggle to cope with the loss of a loved one, and the complicated and painful emotions of bereavement. This book explains death in concrete terms that the child with autism will understand, explores feelings that the child may encounter as a part of bereavement, and offers creative and expressive activities that facilitate healing. With illustrations throughout, this interactive book begins with a simple story about what happens when people die. Each chapter then expands on the issues that have been raised in the story and offers a variety of coping skills exercises including writing, art and craft, cooking, movement, relaxation, and remembrance activities. Encouraging children with autism to express their loss through discussion, personal reflection, and creative activity, the book is ideal for children and teens to work through by themselves, or with the support of a family member or professional.

The acclaimed approach to helping children with autism, profiled in the award-winning documentary "Autism: The Musical"

This groundbreaking book outlines seven integrated keys for educators and parents to make meaningful connections with children on the autism spectrum. The book is based on the unique approach used by Elaine Hall and Diane Isaacs of The Miracle Project, a musical theater program for children with autism and their peers and siblings. The Miracle Project integrates traditional and creative therapies in an interactive, social dynamic. The book shows how to apply these effective strategies at school and at home to nurture kids' self-expression and social skills.Elaine Hall and The Miracle Project were profiled in the two-time Emmy Award-winning HBO documentary, "Autism: The Musical""Seven Keys" reveals the seven-step program that has proven so successful for children in the Miracle ProjectAfter reading "Seven Keys" teachers and parents will better understand this puzzling disorder and be able to help children with autism draw connections and form more meaningful relationships

"Seven Keys to Unlock Autism" offers readers strategies for creating a personal skill set to make their encounters with autistic children as successful and rewarding as possible.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) begins in early childhood and is characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication, restricted interests and repetitive behavior. As many as half of children with ASD between the ages of 3 and 8 also exhibit disruptive behaviors that interfere with their overall development and family functioning. This Therapist Guide, Parent Training for Disruptive Behavior, is designed for therapists to use with parents of children with ASD and challenging behaviors, such as tantrums, noncompliance, and aggression. Based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis and developed over more than a decade of research, the intervention consists of 11 core sessions as well as supplemental sessions, a home visit, and follow-up visits. Each session includes a therapist script, activity sheets, parent handouts, and checklists. Video vignettes are available online to illustrate concepts. The treatment manual is designed to be used in conjunction with the companion Workbook for parents. Each session is delivered individually in weekly outpatient visits. Homework assignments between sessions focus on implementing behavior change strategies collaboratively chosen by the therapist and parent.

Raising a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be very challenging, particularly for parents who do not have easy access to psychological treatment. This book presents parent training as a unique approach that is not only more accessible but is also one of the most promising methods for promoting long-term behavioral improvements in children with ASD. Backed by decades of research, parent training is a psychotherapeutic technique in which parents are main drivers of change for their children. The clinician passes knowledge to the parents and teaches them more effective parenting skills and behaviors. This clinical guide shows practitioners how to apply this approach with families of children with ASD. Readers will learn strategies for implementing various assessment and intervention techniques, and for maintaining parental engagement throughout treatment. Individual chapters focus on the most common issues that parents of children with ASD struggle with, including social and communication deficits; disruptive behaviors; sleep disturbances; tendencies to wander off; and key life skills, like feeding and toileting. Vivid case examples demonstrate this clinical guidance being applied in realistic scenarios.

En el querido libro clasico The Way I See It (ahora en espanol!), la Dra. Temple Grandin aborda los problemas REALES del autismo, los que enfrentan los padres, maestros e individuos en el espectro todos los dias. En esta quinta edicion actualizada, Temple ofrece consejos utiles sobre que hacer y que no hacer, estrategias practicas y consejos para probarlo, todo basado en su perspectiva interna y una gran cantidad de investigacion. Los capitulos revisados y actualizados incluyen: Alternativa vs. Medicina convencional No se deje atrapar por las etiquetas La importancia de la intervencion educativa temprana Demasiado videojuegos y tiempo de pantalla Probar en carreras !y muchos mas! Temple Grandin ha acumulado una gran cantidad de conocimiento en este libro, que sirve como un excelente recurso de referencia para una multitud de temas relacionados con ASD. Ya sea que este buscando algo especifico o leyendo de principio a fin, La manera en que yo lo veo es una lectura obligatoria para todas las personas cuya vida ha sido tocada por el autismo. In the beloved classic book The Way I See It, Dr. Temple Grandin gets to the REAL issues of autism the ones parents, teachers, and individuals on the spectrum face every day. In this updated fifth edition, Temple offers helpful dos and don'ts, practical strategies, and try-it-now tips all based on her insider perspective and a great deal of research. Revised and updated chapters include: Alternative vs. Conventional Medicine Do Not Get Trapped By Labels The Importance of Early Educational Intervention Too Much Video Gaming and Screen Time Try On Careers and many more! Temple Grandin has packed a wealth of knowledge into this book, which serves as an excellent reference resource for a multitude of topics related to ASD. Whether you're searching for something specific or reading cover-to-cover, The Way I See It is required reading for everyone whose life has been touched by autism.

This updated book offers a comprehensive understanding of music therapy services for young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families in home, preschool, and community settings. It addresses recent diagnostic features, evidence-based practices, and effective music therapy interventions backed by rigorous scientific evidence. Determining eligibility, gathering information, and identifying intervention goals for children with ASD are addressed in the assessment chapter followed by prominent approaches applied in music therapy practice. Managing sensory processing and communication issues that may interfere with everyday life is discussed from an interdisciplinary perspective. Inclusion and family practices, effective advocacy efforts, and a reflection of life journeys of four music therapists who are parents of children with ASD conclude the 15 engaging and resourceful chapters.

Adolescence is a challenging stage for all individuals, especially for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Individuals with ASD face increased social isolation and engage in more challenging behaviors during adolescence. They also experience increased mental health challenges including anxiety and depression, and they are among the least likely of any disability group to attend college, be competitively employed, or live independently. At the same time, adolescents with ASD face a major shift in available services and support as they exit the K-12 educational system. The need to present what is known about this group in order to inform clinicians, researchers, and educators cannot be understated. Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder synthesizes current science on adolescents and young adults with ASD in order to inform mental health practitioners and education professionals who work directly with these individuals. While early childhood interventions for ASD have been extensively developed and tested, research on adolescents and young adults with ASD has lagged behind until recently. This comprehensive handbook can be utilized to train students and professionals in applied mental health roles. The handbook includes three sections: Part I reviews diagnosis and treatment of adolescents with ASD; Part II details how to support their educational needs; and Part III discusses special populations including college students and young women. Chapters highlight recommendations for clinicians and include study questions and additional resources.

Recognising Autism and Asperger's Syndrome is an accessible guide, offering information and guidance, self-help and coping strategies and illustrated throughout with personal quotes, vignettes and anecdotes from clients with autism with whom the author has worked clinically. The book captures the individual stories, quotations and experiences, observed in adult autism diagnostic services, woven in with contemporary research, theory and clinical insights. It outlines the history of the condition and the present criteria for obtaining a diagnosis. With exercises, tips, questionnaires, psycho-educational work and advice sheets, this new edition also elucidates the female presentation of autism that has attained significance in the recent times. The book is deliberately aimed at a broad audience of people: those who have just received a diagnosis and want to know more, those who are considering seeking a diagnosis, family members, relatives, friends and clinicians, including mental health workers, psychologists, support workers and all those who work with autistic people.

This easy-to-use resource is a compilation of theoretical background and concrete approaches designed to increase understanding and outline strategies to support autistic children and young people who experience anxiety in the school environment. This resource also has practical application for parents, carers and professionals across a range of educational and community-based settings. Using real life examples and case studies, the book explains and explores the different forms of anxiety and their impact across the school environment. Each chapter offers practical information and strategies that may help reduce the negative symptoms of anxiety and help support emotional resilience across home and school environments. Key features of this book include: Chapters aimed at enhancing the understanding of anxiety in autism, considering potential triggers of anxiety, discussion on cognitive theories, social communication and means of assessing anxiety. A wealth of downloadable anxiety management strategies and resources that can be adapted and used by a teacher, parent or other professional. This resource has been developed by the multidisciplinary team at Middletown Centre for Autism, and is a useful resource for the busy parent, teacher and other professionals who wish to provide individualised support strategies for anxiety across a range of settings.

Engaging and reader-friendly, this text presents the vital material required by special educators to plan and implement effective programs that meet the needs of students with autism, specifically those who also have intellectual disabilities (ID). You'll find detailed information about evidence-based practices in the field of autism, beginning with an overview that discusses etiology, characteristics, diagnosis, and program considerations, followed by in-depth coverage of evidence-based teaching practices in a step-by-step format. The authors' optimistic viewpoint is grounded in the premise that applied behavior analytical interventions, if well planned and accurately implemented, will increase the potential for each student's independent functioning in integrated settings.

For professionals who work with students on the autism spectrum in inclusive classroom settings, supporting emotional regulation is key. This practical guide outlines cognitive and language strategies that support emotional regulation, which the authors have found successful with their students with autism, supported by research that shows why they work. The focus in this book is on the emotional state of the child as opposed to controlling behaviours. The guidelines and strategies provided help students with prediction and make the expectations of them clear, empowering children by giving them choices. Examples of how to use each strategy are given, alongside tips for application. The book also includes sample goals for regulation, information on therapy techniques that work and a 'cheat sheet' overview of the strategies, creating a clear and concise guide to engaging and enhancing learning in the classroom.

Applied behaviour analysis (ABA) is one of the most effective interventions for children with autism spectrum disorders and other disabilities. Now you can bring ABA best practices into any early childhood setting with this book-your complete guide to using ABA within everyday routines to support children's learning, participation, and development. Ideal for use with children birth to five, this practical, reader-friendly guidebook is the first to combine ABA with natural environment intervention, the widely used, research-supported approach to meeting the needs of children with disabilities. You'll learn the fundamental principles and research behind ABA and natural environment intervention, and you'll get one clear and practical framework for conducting effective assessment of behaviour, skills, routines, and caregiver priorities setting meaningful goals that increase the child's active participation in routines addressing the goals with tailored ABA teaching procedures creating powerful intervention plans that support children in specific developmental domains and routines selecting an appropriate data collection method monitoring progress toward goals and making adjustments as needed ensuring consistent implementation of ABA interventions coaching other professionals and caregivers in the ABA approach. To get you started with ABA, the book gives you 25 sample teaching plans that strengthen communication, social interaction, positive behaviour, independent play and daily living skills, cognitive skills, and participation in everyday routines. Vivid, realistic case studies of diverse children walk you through the ABA process from start to finish. And with the blank forms and data sheets, you'll easily assess children's skills and participation and monitor their progress toward goals. With this comprehensive guide to a proven intervention approach, you'll help young children with ASD and other disabilities make lasting improvements and participate fully at home, at school, and in their community.

This book takes a fresh look at approaches to teaching reading, writing and communication skills. It presents a wealth of innovative ideas specifically designed to support visual learners, including those with autism spectrum conditions and special educational needs. Some children are more responsive to visual stimulation than spoken words, and this book shows how to engage these children in literacy lessons by using strategies that cover everything from the latest assistive technology to getting creative on a limited budget. There are tips for sharing stories with children who find it hard to sit still, supporting reluctant writers, enabling the pre-verbal child to answer questions and helping the child who never stops talking to develop listening skills. The strategies are supported by practical resources, examples and case studies, to show how to instil in children the confidence to create and share their thoughts. This is a must-have resource for special education teachers and coordinators, as well as speech and language therapists, looking for new strategies for teaching literacy.

A practical guide to the innovative Autism Movement Therapy (R) (AMT) approach - structured movement and music classes designed to stimulate the brain, aid sensory processing and decrease problem behaviours in children with autism spectrum disorders. Reflecting a growing interest in the body-brain connection, and incorporating the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis, the AMT approach uses music and movement to develop audio, visual, gross motor and spatial awareness skills in children with autism. The book breaks down the components of the typical 45 minute session, from circle games to story dances, and explains how the reader can create their own AMT program. This exciting new approach will complement other therapeutic techniques for children on the autism spectrum and can be used by a wide range of professionals, such as teachers, arts therapists and dance instructors, as well as parents and carers.

Quality Activities in Center-Based Programs for Adults with Autism: Moving from Nonmeaningful to Meaningful describes what constitutes meaningful versus nonpurposeful activities for adults with autism and other severe disabilities in a classroom or center-based program. Then this step-by-step guide presents an evidence-based process for changing nonpurposeful activities, using behavior analytic research and application. The goal is to help ensure adults with autism and other severe disabilities are engaged in week-day activities that truly enhance their income-earning capacity, independence with life skills, day-to-day enjoyment, and overall dignity.

This teacher resource is filled with worksheets, tasks and activities focused on developing the social skills of children on the autistic spectrum aged 8-12. It has been created to be used alongside the story Finding Kite: A Social Skills Adventure Story, although activities can stand alone as a programme of intervention. Each task encourages young people to think about their own experiences, challenges and goals, building self-esteem and confidence along the way. Suitable for use in small groupsor 1:1, the worksheets are flexible in design, allowing the facilitator to respond to the needs of each child. Key features of this resource include: * engaging activities divided into sections focused on 'making sense of my world' and 'connecting with others'; * photocopiable and downloadable worksheets, filled with opportunities for reflection and discussion; * the option to use it alongside the engaging, choose your own adventure story, Finding Kite, which immerses the reader in a sensory adventure. Designed for students aged 8-12, this resource provides an invaluable opportunity to build an understanding of the complexities of social dynamics. Although created with girls on the autistic spectrum in mind, it can be used with students of different genders and adapted for their needs.

This book will guide practitioners, early interventionists, teachers, counselors, and psychologists in identifying and implementing effective strategies that address the unique characteristics of children with autism and their families. The authors describe current research on the etiology of autism and outline a range of effective assessment procedures. Key topics include: - How to guide family participation and supports in developing goals and interventions - Procedures for intervention planning and implementation in natural settings - Methods for promoting generalization and maintenance of skills - Strategies to promote collaboration and problem-solving approaches across multiple disciplines Approaches for evaluating evidence based practices - Ways to foster awareness of recent developments related to evidence-based practices

Containing everything needed to teach beginning skills such as imitation, visual spatial awareness, expressive and receptive language skills and skills of daily living, this comprehensive ABA curriculum has been developed for individuals on the autism spectrum with a developmental age of approximately 3-5 years. Evidence-based, the resource guides instructors step-by-step through using ABA to teach over 140 beginning skills. The program can be individualized to meet the needs and interests of the individual, and instructions are given on how to do this. The accompanying online downloadable content contains the teaching materials needed to implement the program, including over 1000 color picture cards, handy printable copies of the curriculum programs, data forms and checklists. The authors also provide guidance on creating an effective ABA teaching environment, as well as a wealth of practical teaching strategies for ensuring therapy success. This is an unparalleled resource for professionals working with children with ASDs who are looking for a robust and ready-to-implement ABA curriculum. It will be a valuable tool for behaviour analysts, teachers, psychologists, occupational therapists and students in these fields, as well as to parents working with professionals to implement an ABA program.

This practical resource is brimming with exciting ideas and guidance for motivating children with autism and other communication difficulties. The clear, user-friendly format enables quick access to over 300 practical, fun-filled games and activities for developing your child's communication skills. The book suggests creative ways to use everyday toys and objects. For example, if your child likes to pop bubbles, perhaps he would also enjoy counting bubbles, catching bubbles on a wand, stomping them with his feet or even playing bubble volleyball The innovative ideas in this book have been developed over 40 years of clinical and educational experience, and are designed to be fun for both the adult and the child. All resources mentioned in this book are readily available and can be used to advance communication skills at all levels, from reaching out for an item, to extending verbal communication. Motivate to Communicate is perfect for supporting parents, care-givers and professionals in motivating and developing the communication skills of children on the autism spectrum.

This book provides a comprehensive outline of the major parent training programs for parents of children with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD), including Autism Spectrum Disorder. Parents or primary caregivers spend the most time with a child, and training them in behaviour management and intervention strategies is critical to improving a child's behaviour, to helping them to learn new skills, and to reduce parental stress. Authored by eminent specialists in the field and written for researchers and clinicians supporting or treating families, each chapter focuses on one of the key evidence-based parent training programs - from Incredible Years (R) and Positive Family Intervention through to Pivotal Response Treatment and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Each chapter provides a breakdown that features an introduction to the model, evidence for the model, a full description of the model, a discussion of implementation and dissemination efforts, and concluding comments. Grounded in research, this definitive overview provides the evidence and guidance required for anyone considering investing in or running a parenting program.

This book provides an introduction to the autism spectrum and explores some of the theories and research which help in understanding the characteristics of young children who may be on the autism spectrum and the likely impact on their development and learning. It offers in-depth information on some of the key features which can lead to a child being diagnosed with autism and discusses the diversity of the spectrum, as well as presenting information on available screening tools. The book considers the main areas of difficulties that children with autism display - social interaction, social communication, and imagination and play - and explores the role that early years practitioners have in supporting the child and helping them to develop appropriate communication and social skills. As well as advice on key aspects of early years practice such as working with parents, other professionals and preparing the children for the move to primary school, there are specific chapters on the pertinent aspects of behaviour and sensory issues. Each chapter includes reflective activities which enable you to apply the information within your own context. Key points and further sources of information are indicated at the end of each chapter, helping you to check your understanding and expand your knowledge on specific topics.With its practical strategies for supporting children with autism during the early years, this book is key reading for students studying early years or special education, as well as for practitioners working with children on the autism spectrum in early years settings. "This is a timely and very practical book addressed to all those working in early years settings who are working with, or who will be working with, children on the autism spectrum (i.e. all staff in any early years setting). It gives clear and authoritative information on current understanding of the autism spectrum, and draws on a wide range of literature to do so, while being written in a clear direct style that should be accessible to all. It would also be of benefit to family members who want to understand their child and how to best work with the systems and services they encounter. The book is realistic about the challenges but is also full of practical positive suggestions which respect the contribution of all to enabling effective practice: staff in the early years setting, support services, the family and, not least, the children themselves." Professor Rita Jordan BSc.MSc.MA.PhD.C.Psychol.AFBPS.OBEEmeritus Professor in Autism Studies,University of Birmingham, UK"Early years practitioners are absolutely vital partners in recognising autism and in adjusting their practice in response to the needs of children with autism. The impact they can make on families and outcomes for children is immeasurable, therefore a book like this which gives a mixture of practical strategies underpinned by evidence is a wonderful tool. With a prevalence rate of 1 in 100 all early years practitioners will encounter young children with autism in their careers. The difference they can make by being able to recognise the condition, support families and adapt their practice is immeasurable. This clear and easy to read book will be a real boon to all early years practitioners." Carol Povey, Director of the Centre for Autism, National Autistic Society"Understanding Autism in Early Years is a clearly written and very useful book. Early years practitioners will find it helpful for recognising the signs of autism spectrum conditions in young children, working with families, and adapting their practice in ways that will help those they care for learn and develop." Dr Mitzi WaltzSenior Lecturer in Autism, Sheffield Hallam University, UK

Raising awareness and understanding of autism has school-wide benefits, such as helping to improve the attitudes of pupils and staff and allowing children with autism to thrive socially, emotionally and educationally alongside their peers. This comprehensive resource provides a whole school programme for raising autism awareness and promoting inclusion. It includes training for staff in the knowledge and skills they need to support pupils, a sample school assembly, and lesson plans for teaching groups of pupils to be 'autism champions'. This programme also offers photocopiable worksheets and online presentations to use as part of the staff training, school assembly and peer awareness lessons. There is advice for involving children with autism and their parents in school activities. Easily adaptable for different age groups, this is a ready-made resource for schools committed to promoting autism awareness and whole school welfare.

For young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and others who have challenges in interacting and communicating, early intervention is key--and parents can play a vital role. Developed through work with hundreds of families, this book presents engaging, evidence-based techniques for enriching your child's social communication skills (up to age 6). The strategies can be easily integrated into daily routines, such as meals, bathtime, bedtime, and playtime. Designed for use as part of a therapist-guided program, the manual has a convenient large-size format and includes 20 reproducible forms. You also get access to a companion website, where you can download and print the forms for repeated use and view video clips of parents using the techniques. Professionals who want to implement Project ImPACT should purchase the authors' two-book set (ISBN 978-1-4625-3814-0), which includes this manual plus a coach's guide. New to This Edition *Reflects the latest research and the ongoing development of the authors' approach. *Even more user friendly; skills parents need to learn are simplified and streamlined. *Chapter on managing challenging behavior. *Numerous graphics to help you remember and use the strategies. *Appropriate for a broader range of children, including those without an ASD diagnosis.

Ensuring classrooms are inclusive to all students, particularly those with disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder, is crucial in today's educational landscape. It is vital that educators are prepared and knowledgeable on the current best practices and policies in order to provide these students with the most thorough education possible. Rethinking Perception and Centering the Voices of Unique Individuals: Reframing Autism Inclusion in Praxis introduces a new model of reframing autism spectrum disorder inclusion for professors of preliminary teacher candidates and provides meaningful understanding and support for professors who prepare preliminary teacher candidates. Covering key topics such as equity, mental disorders, inclusive education, and educational reform, this reference work is ideal for administrators, stakeholders, policymakers, teacher educators, counselors, researchers, academicians, scholars, practitioners, instructors, and students.