Approaches to Autism [2007 Edition]


Book Description

A NAS guide to the many and varied approaches to autism. It provides a starting point for those who wish to gain an insight into the host of strategies. It also contains references to a range of interventions and therapies, arranged alphabetically in directory style for easy reference. Each entry signposts the way to further information.




The TEACCH Approach to Autism Spectrum Disorders


Book Description

- Professionals can be trained in the program and its methods - Translates scientific knowledge so that practitioners and parents can easily understand the current state of knowledge - Offers strategies that can be tailored to an individual's unique developmental and functional level - Advises parents on how to become involved in all phases of intervention as collaborators, co-therapists, and advocates. - Details how the program can be introduced and adapted for individuals of all ages, from preschooler to adult




The Verbal Behavior Approach


Book Description

The 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.




Changing the Course of Autism


Book Description

Describes autism as an epidemic, examines its potential causes, and argues that it can be treated as a medical disease rather than a behavioral disorder, discussing specific treatments.




Clinical Manual for the Treatment of Autism


Book Description

Explaining how to diagnose autism by providing examples and guidelines for evaluation and testing of individuals, this guide helps practitioners to evaluate the appropriate role of various medications for specific target symptoms and individuals. It also describes complementary and alternative therapies and explores promising new avenues of treatment.




Evidence-Based Practices and Treatments for Children with Autism


Book Description

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) have been increasingly diagnosed in recent years and carries with it far reaching social and financial implications. With this in mind, educators, physicians, and parents are searching for the best practices and most effective treatments. But because the symptoms of ASDs span multiple domains (e.g., communication and language, social, behavioral), successfully meeting the needs of a child with autism can be quite challenging. Evidence-Based Practices and Treatments for Children with Autism offers an insightful and balanced perspective on topics ranging from the historical underpinnings of autism treatment to the use of psychopharmacology and the implementation of evidence-based practices (EBPs). An evaluation methodology is also offered to reduce the risks and inconsistencies associated with the varying definitions of key autism terminology. This commitment to clearly addressing the complex issues associated with ASDs continues throughout the volume and provides opportunities for further research. Additional issues addressed include: Behavioral excesses and deficits treatment Communication treatment Social awareness and social skills treatment Dietary, complementary, and alternative treatments Implementation of EBPs in school settings Interventions for sensory dysfunction With its holistic and accessible approach, Evidence-Based Practices and Treatments for Children with Autism is a vital resource for school psychologists and special education professionals as well as allied mental health professionals, including clinical child and developmental psychologists, psychiatrist, pediatricians, primary care and community providers.







Engaging Autism


Book Description

An essential guide to the highly recommended Floortime approach for treating children with any of the autism spectrum disorders (ASD). From the renowned child psychiatrist who developed the groundbreaking Floortime approach for children with autism spectrum disorder, Engaging Autism is a clear, compassionate road-map for parents. Unlike approaches that focus on changing specific behavior, Dr. Greenspan's program promotes the building blocks of healthy emotional and behavioral development, showing that children with ASD do not have a fixed, limited potential, and may often join their peers to lead full, healthy lives. With practical advice for every scenario you may face with your autistic child at any age -- including sensory craving, overactivity, avoidant behavior, eating, toilet training, developing social skills and more -- Engaging Autism offers hope for families and redefines how we see children with ASD.




Creative Therapy for Children with Autism, ADD, and Asperger's


Book Description

It is no easy task to find a teaching technique that can truly change the course of a child with special needs. Thirty years ago, when Janet Tubbs began working with children who had low self-esteem and behavioral problems, she developed a successful program using art, music, and movement. Believing that unconventional children required unconventional therapies, she then took her program one step further—she applied it to children with autism, ADD/ADHD, and Asperger’s Syndrome. Her innovative methods and strategies not only worked, but they actually defied the experts. In this new book, Janet Tubbs has put together a powerful teaching tool to help parents, therapists, and teachers work with their children. Creative Therapy for Children with Autism, ADD, and Asperger's ​​is divided into two parts. Part One provides an overview of Autism Spectrum Disorders and introduces and explains Janet’s novel approach to teaching. Her goal is to balance the child’s body, mind, and spirit through proven techniques. Part Two provides a wide variety of exercises, activities, and games that are both fun and effective. Each is designed to reduce hyperactivity, increase and prolong focus, decrease anger, develop fine motor skills, or improve social and verbal skills. All are part of a program created to help these children relate to their environment without fear, anxiety, or discomfort. A child may appear stubborn and difficult, but that doesn’t mean that the child isn’t intelligent, curious, or creative. With the right treatment, such a child can be reached, taught, and set on the road to improvement. The lessons provided in this book may be just what you and your child have been waiting for.




Reframe Your Thinking Around Autism


Book Description

Outlining a new, optimistic way to understand autism, this concise and accessible book offers practical ideas to help children on the spectrum grow. The Polyvagal Theory suggests autism is a learnt response by the body - a result of the child being in a prolonged state of 'fight or flight' while their nervous system is still developing. This book explains the theory in simple terms and incorporates recent developments in brain plasticity research (the capacity of the brain to change throughout life) to give parents and professionals the tools to strengthen the child's brain-body connection and lessen the social and emotional impact of autism.