Travis Thompson: Dr. Thompson’s Straight Talk on Autism

Excerpt

As more and more children are receiving a diagnosis of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), parents require up-to-date and practical information to provide them with clarification of important issues related to the diagnosis of ASD. Additionally, parents often seek relevant guidance and direction in the care and parenting of their child with autism. Thompson’s Straight Talk on Autism is a source that addresses both of these needs. Written in an easy-to-read style that is accessible to parents and professionals alike, this book shares clinical, and personal accounts of individuals with ASDs to illustrate key parenting and educational issues that arise from the ASDs. Essentially building on his earlier publication, Making Sense of Autism, the author’s stated focus is to help parents, teachers and therapists to take effective steps to develop critical skills in communication, and address the social and behavioral issues that are associated with the diagnosis of autism. Throughout the book, the author shares practical strategies with clinical and research backing, and makes suggestions for the preparation and structuring of activities. Parents will find the author’s suggestions particularly useful as he touches on many everyday issues that children with autism frequently struggle with such as toileting, bathing, sleeping patterns, eating, conducting chores, and brushing teeth. Thompson’s examples of toys and educational materials that have been successful in engaging children with ASDs makes his book a true “how to” guide that parents will want to refer to time and again as their child grows and develops. …