A groundbreaking, long overdue book that explains how to identify your autistic child's strengths and abilities and then use them as a tool for social communication, improved learning, and overall growth. The strengths of children and young adults diagnosed with ASD are commonly overlooked, even by trained professionals. Outdated attitudes, lack of sufficient training and an overreliance on standardised testing works against recognising their capabilities. Focusing on the importance of motivation strategies, Hidden Strengths shows you how to build on every autistic child's interests and strengths. Through real-life stories of individuals whose innate abilities blossomed once they were acknowledged, this book dispels unhelpful stereotypes and will help you unlock your child's potential. It also aims to educate the wider community in how to support, accept and embrace the gifts autistic individuals offer. 'Will help both parents and teachers find and develop a child's unique skills in memory, music, math, art, and attention to details. Development of these skills can lead to both a more rewarding life and possible careers' Temple Grandin, PhD, New York Times bestselling author

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.

One of the most respected and widely used autism interventions, Pivotal Response Treatment uses natural learning opportunities to modify key behaviors in children—leading to widespread positive effects on communication, behavior, and social skills. Now the pioneering experts behind PRT have created a comprehensive modern guide to this research-based approach, completely reworked and revised for today’s therapists, educators, and parents. Use the proven PRT approach to • advance children’s communication and language skills, even in extremely challenging cases • aid early identification and intervention • improve children’s motivation and performance in school • foster friendships with peers during play dates and other social interactions • increase positive behavior by combining functional assessment and self-management strategies • decrease disruptive behavior • help young adults make a smooth transition to college, career, and community life Strengthened with new research and more step-by-step guidance, this bestselling PRT guide is now reorganized to support children on their whole developmental trajectory, from infancy through adulthood. New and revised chapters cover critical topics (see sidebar), and the book’s down-to-earth, accessible style ensures that all readers can grasp PRT principles and apply them effectively. With this proven approach backed by more than 25 years of research, professionals and families will support children with autism as they enjoy more positive interactions, more effective communication, and higher academic achievement.