Making Autism a Gift

Despite new research and increased public awareness, autism is still looked at in a negative light. Most books on the subject perpetuate this notion by saying that autism is bad or needs to be overcome, rather than highlighting the positive-for instance, many people with autism graduate from college, attain exciting careers, and lead happy, fulfilling lives. Making Autism a Gift emphasizes these positive realities and tears down the wall of isolation associated with this disorder. With information from hundreds of up-to-date sources, this practical book looks at the effects of autism on the individual and provides strategies parents can use to help their autistic children at home and beyond.

Despite new research and increased public awareness, autism is still looked at in a negative light. Most books on the subject perpetuate this notion by saying that autism is bad or needs to be overcome, rather than highlighting the positive—for instance, many people with autism graduate from college, attain exciting careers, and lead happy, fulfilling lives. Making Autism a Gift emphasizes these positive realities and tears down the wall of isolation associated with this disorder. With information from hundreds of up-to-date sources, this practical book looks at the effects of autism on the individual and provides strategies parents can use to help their autistic children at home and beyond.

Chapter 1 "Well, I DO Like to Draw!": The Art of Defining Autism
Chapter 2 "But He Is Too Attractive to Have Autism!": Characteristics of Autism
Chapter 3 "Funny, I Don't Feel Sick!": Diagnosing Autism
Chapter 4 "Of Course, It Could Also Be...": Conditions Associated with Autism
Chapter 5 "Maybe YOU Need to be Modified": Strategies for Addressing General Behavioral Issues
Chapter 6 "Why Is Everything That I Like To Do Wrong?": Strategies for Addressing Self-Stimulation
Chapter 7 "Attack Me with This Bananna!": Strategies for Addressing Temper Tantrums and Aggression
Chapter 8 "What We Have Here Is a Failure to Communicate...": Strategies for Addressing Social and Communication Skills
Chapter 9 "Ten Minutes to Wapner!": Strategies for Addressing Fears, Fixations, and Routines
Chapter 10 "One Must Be a Student Before One Can Be a Teacher": General Strategies and Philosophies for Teaching Your Child
Chapter 11 "Okay! I Am the Quarterback!": Working Collaboratively with Special Educators
Chapter 12 "Someday You Are Going to Die...": Life After School and You
Chapter 13 Final Thoughts
Chapter 14 Glossary
Chapter 15 Resources