Future Horizons

Real Life Lifehacks for the Highly Sensitive

The term high sensitivity refers to a complete set of traits seen in the behavior of a highly sensitive person (HSP), such as being especially empathetic, having a keen eye for detail and the bigger picture, and being creative and intuitive. It is present in 15 to 20% of the population. There are just as many extremely sensitive men as women. Being highly sensitive is a valuable characteristic. The world needs people who are empathetic, self-aware, and have the ability to think deeply and critically.

Unfortunately, each of these qualities can become a pitfall when taken to extremes. Self-reflection can turn into self-criticism, deep thinking into worrying, empathy into absorbing others' emotions, and helpfulness into rescuing others.

Lifehacks for the Highly Sensitive addresses 20 main challenges people face when they are an HSP. For each challenge, there are effective tips that make life easier. Some of these include:

• Learning how not to fear rejection
• Overcoming unhealthy perfectionism
• Taming your galloping brain
• Regulating your emotions
• And much more!

Because of the unique and varied needs of children with autism, careful attention to their experiences in medical settings remains essential. Prescription for Success: Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Medical Environment, Second Edition builds on the foundation of the original text with expanded content, additional strategies, and a restructured format designed for ease of use.

This revised edition deepens understanding of the characteristics and developmental differences of children with autism, expands on the foundational role and necessity of sensory regulation, strengthens guidance and emphasizes strategies for communicating procedural information, includes new discussion of pain management, and overviews interventions to promote engagement and collaborative care. Designed for medical professionals, families, and service providers, the book also offers practical tools, updated assessments, and real-world strategies to support positive, successful healthcare experiences for children with autism. This second edition continues to serve as a trusted resource for improving interactions, reducing stress, and promoting better outcomes for all involved.

Celebrating Our Differences!

Each character embodies different neurodivergent traits, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and synesthesia—portrayed not as deficits, but as vibrant possibilities. It aims to foster understanding, empathy, and respect for neurological differences.

The author’s autistic son inspired her to write this book. It is her hope that Bobo and Friends Celebrate Neurodiversity will help children everywhere to embrace and celebrate their unique abilities.

Winner Of

• Independent Publishers Book Awards Gold Medal for Nonfiction Series (with Ten Things Your Student with Autism Wishes You Knew)
• Grand Prize for Instruction and Insight, Chanticleer International Book Awards
• Grand Prize short list, Eric Hoffer Book Awards

Great book for the parent of a child who is newly diagnosed. It will help the parent who is frightened by the diagnosis get started on creating a positive outcome for their child. — Temple Grandin, PhD, Author of The Way I See It and Thinking in Pictures

The 20th Anniversary Edition of Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew commemorates the timeless insights of one of the autism community’s most beloved classics.

Translated into more than 25 languages, Ten Things has transcended geographic, cultural, and socio-economic boundaries to guide and inspire millions of families and professionals worldwide since the first edition was published in 2005. A child’s voice leads into each chapter, presenting an authentic exploration into how ten core characteristics of autism affect our children’s perceptions and reactions to the surrounding physical, sensory and social environments.

Framed with humor and compassion, the book helps to illuminate—not define—autistic children. The 2019 third edition sharpened the focus on these basic aspects, while expanding on how our own perspectives shape the life of our child and ourselves, in daily life and for years to come. A compelling new section explains the surprising breadth of our power of choice and outlines potent strategies for strong decision-making in every situation

Ellen's experiences as a parent, author, and contributor to numerous parenting, education, and health publications coalesce to create this guide for those with someone on the autism spectrum in their life. Countless parents, teachers, social workers, and therapists call Ten Things a back-pocket necessity

When young people have questions about a brother or sister with autism or Asperger's Syndrome, clear answers can be hard to find. Written by Eve Band , Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, this book gives voice to ten-year-old Emily's story: her questions about her brother, her search for answers about autism, and her exploration of her feelings as a sibling of a young man with autism. Told in her voice, Emily's story is as uplifting as it is filled with valuable information for parents and siblings, or any individual whose life is touched by a person with high-functioning autism or Asperger's Syndrome.

Helpful chapters include:

I have an Autism BOOST. I am ME.
There are so many things that make me, me. There are so many things that make you, you.
But one thing I have, that you may not, is an autism BOOST. Come on and I’ll tell you all about it!

There are many books that describe how kids with autism are different and explain the challenges they face. Here’s one special picture book that focuses on what is awesome about autism. This book celebrates all that is special about each individual and explains the benefits of each extra potential autism boost. Other resources will talk about the challenges that come with ASD; here is a book for kids that celebrates the honesty, creativity, integrity, and brilliant logic that the autism boost brings.

Do you have a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or related special needs for your child? Are you asking yourself…

We have come to a new normal - life after the arrival of COVID-19.

Learn the strategies needed prior to your child going back to school or to their adult services placement such as:

And much more!

Have a problem with aggressive behavior in your child? Get help here!

Dr. Ralph Ankenman presents new diagnoses and treatment options for children who have severe disruptive meltdowns at home or school. Referred to as Immature Adrenaline Systems Over-reactivity (IASO), this approach is based on the relationship between aggression and the body's adrenaline systems. Therefore, IASO does not require psychotropic drugs. Instead, IASO reduces or eliminates psychotropic drugs from a child's regimen. IASO stops episodes of violence and aggression in patients with autism, bipolar disorder, developmental disabilities, and many with no mental health diagnosis at all. Standard psychotropic drugs often do not fully resolve these behaviors and lead to unnecessary side effects. A companion website enables caregivers and parents to discuss and share tips about this new approach.

Middle school presents unique challenges to those with autism/Asperger’s, but it can also be exciting and rewarding. Inclusive Programming addresses transitioning to and from middle school, and everything in between: hormones, cliques, bullying, aggression, and “fitting in.” The ingredients for success are pre-planning, frequent monitoring of progress, teacher training, and regular communication between all concerned. Add committed teachers, peer mentors/tutors, sensible allowances for individual students’ needs (extra test time, visual/oral format, less or different homework, etc.) as called for, and you have a recipe for success.

Helpful chapters include:

Go along with one nervous little boy, as he faces a day he DREADS—haircut day! He hides under the bed with fear at the beginning, but by the end, he has learned that it’s not so scary. He learns to cope with his fear of the barber, and even maybe like it a little! Michele Griffin is no stranger to “picky” children, having spent seven years as a pediatric occupational therapist working with children who were extra sensitive or had sensory issues. Griffin created this story to foster communication, tolerance and understanding between adults and children.

• language & communication
• the GFCF diet, special education law
• parenting issues
• teaching strategies
• and adult issues.

• Tony & Temple: Face to Face By Tony Attwood, Ph.D.
• Developing Proactive Strategies for Managing Problem Behaviors By Lori Ernsperger, Ph.D.
• Connecting with your Child through DIR By Lori Jeanne Peloquin, Ph.D.
• BIG FUN: Using Gymnastics to Improve Physical & Social Skills in Children with Autism By Gene Hurwin
• What Does it Take to do Inclusion of Children with Autism Well? Parts I & II By Shirley Cohen, Ph.D.
• Social Skills on the IEP By Catherine Faherty
• Extraordinary Parenting: The Power of Thoughts and Feelings in Reaching Children with Autism By Steven Wertz
• I’m Special: A Method to Introduce Children, Adolescents and Young Adults to their Autism Spectrum Disorder By Peter Vermeulen
  
   

This book’s vivid illustrations and charming storyline will foster tolerance and understanding among peers, while the printable coloring pages will enlighten and engage learners!

My Friend with Autism Enhanced Edition is the exceptional result of author and parent Beverly Bishop’s determination to educate her son’s classmates about autism, thus helping her son fit in at school. A peer narrator explains that his friend with autism is good at some things and not so good at others—just like everyone else! In an informative, positive tone, he addresses issues such as:

At the end of the book are page-by-page notes for adults, which supplement the text with facts and explanations to further educate teachers and classmates’ parents.

Most children, especially children on the autism spectrum, accept adults' friendliness at face value. Sometimes it can have tragic consequences. Written by a Deputy Sheriff, this book is credited with foiling at least 22 stranger abductions. Characters Bobby and Mandee explain stranger danger in a way that is accessible, but not frightening, for children. Read it to your child and role-play different scenarios. Strangers can be men or women, old or young. Adults should not touch, give gifts to, or ask for help from children. If they do, don't keep it a secret! Tell an adult! Arm your child with the knowledge that may save his or her life.

Since the early ‘90s, Carol Gray’s world-famous Social Stories™ have helped thousands of children with autism spectrum disorders. This 15th Anniversary Edition of her best-selling book offers ready-to-use stories that parents and educators have depended on for years—with new sections added! Additions include how to most effectively use and apply the stories, how to improve the lives of younger children, and Social Stories™ for teens and adults with autism. Developed through years of experience, these strategically written stories explain social situations in ways children and adults with autism understand while teaching social skills needed to be successful at home, school, work, and in the community.

A Social Story™ accurately describes a context, skill, achievement, or concept according to 10 defining criteria. These criteria guide Story research, development, and implementation to ensure an overall patient and supportive quality, and a format, “voice”, content, and learning experience that is descriptive, meaningful, and physically, socially, and emotionally safe for the child, adolescent, or adult with autism. The criteria define what a Social Story™ is, and the process that researches, writes, and illustrates it.

Social Stories™ may be described as an effective and meaningful approach to support social understanding, but the ultimate and deeper goal is to empower children and older people by enhancing their understanding of social situations and social encounters in their lives, and thereby supporting their ability to be active participants in life’s routines and activities. The effective use of Social Stories™ goes even further—it allows practitioners and parents to build trusting relationships through their support. Ultimately, the overarching goal of Social Stories™ is this: to help people to be self-determined, confident and competent individuals.

Parents of children with autism or other special needs frequently struggle with toilet training their child. Toileting a child with special needs is more difficult because there are often additional challenges such as communication difficulties, sensory issues, behavioral concerns, resistance to change, inability to generalize a newly learned skill, and the need for routine.

Using traditional toilet training books and methods are not always helpful because the autism population does not think the same way a neurotypical child does. The child with autism may not care about pleasing parents or receiving verbal praise. Because there may be significant developmental delays, the toileting process may not be started until after the age of four. Using a diaper to eliminate has been the routine for several years and this can be hard to change. Children’s books to introducing toilet training may not be appropriate because the child is too big for a potty chair or using the potty chair then transitioning to the toilet becomes yet another change and obstacle in this process.

All of these concerns may feel insurmountable and overwhelming when making the decision to begin toilet training. Judith Coucouvanis has come to the rescue with her new book The Potty Journey: Guide to Toilet Training Children with Special Needs, Including Autism and Related Disorders that empowers parents and professionals with practical information to make this journey a success. I would recommend reading the book in its entirety first before starting toileting because Ms. Coucouvanis equips the reader with a plan and presents the overall picture for this process. She uses the concept of a journey/trip and all the things one would need to do to make the trip a successful one. It is these planning tips and manageable steps that make toileting “do-able”.

One of the biggest quandaries parents face is not knowing when to start toileting. Judy outlines considerations when to begin toileting in the second chapter. She discusses mental age which is not the same as chronological age, the ability to remain dry for 1 – 2 hours at a time, and being over the age of four when bodily functions are more mature. It is also important that you as the parent are emotionally ready for this commitment which takes several weeks, and that there are no additional life stressors such as a move, divorce, job change, or major illness.

One key to successful toileting is using a team approach. Everyone who spends time with that child should be involved in the toileting process. Children with autism don’t generalize from one situation to the next so for success to occur there has to be a consistent toileting routine and approach throughout the child’s day which may unfold in several places.

The author introduces the Daily Progress Record (DPR) in chapter 3 which is the foundation of the toileting process. She provides lots of examples and a template in the appendix. She teaches how to practice toileting, use rewards, and supports the child’s learning with visual examples. She dedicates two chapters to troubleshooting problems. The book is peppered with thoughts from parents and professionals who have gone through this journey. Their comments offer positive support and encouragement. The final chapter is dedicated for stories from those who have completed the toileting journey.

Ms.Coucouvanis also writes about creating independence with toileting – how to fade prompts and your presence in the bathroom. She also discusses bathroom use in other locations such as the school and public restrooms. The hidden curriculum rules for boys and girls public bathroom use are outlined. Most mothers are not aware of how different a men’s public bathroom is from a women’s.

There is a helpful appendix at the end which includes charts for determining toileting readiness, the Daily Progress Record, records for your team members (known as the travel crew), a checklist to prepare for this journey, suggested rewards, Sitting Practice Record, and a visual breakdown of the toileting steps.

The Potty Journey takes parents and professionals through the toileting journey which is a challenge but well worth the effort. Toileting with independence and confidence is a life-long skill; without this skill, a person’s choices are limited and they are dependent on someone else for one of their most basic needs.

Payton is afraid of dirt. He’s afraid of germs and getting sick, and spends a lot of his time cleaning and worrying over his fears.

Payton learns he has Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). His OCD is like someone in his head is bossing him around all day long. It tells him that he has to wash and tidy, and cannot do the things he wants, like play outside.

With the help of his family and doctor, Payton learns how to manage his OCD by putting it in an imaginary shrink machine, or ROARING it away!

Learn how Payton, and others like him, make their OCD monsters smaller. You can do it, too!

The Social Skills Picture Book, Winner of an iParenting Media Award - now in Spanish!

Ganador de un Premio de Medios de Comunicación iParenting (iParenting Media Award), este libro utiliza fotos de estudiantes en una variedad de situaciones de la vida real. El formato realista sirve de refuerzo visual para niños con trastornos del espectro autista y otros trastornos del desarrollo a enseñarles comportamientos sociales adecuados. Las fotos ilustran la "forma correcta" y la "forma incorrecta" de actuar en cada situación, y las consecuencias positivas y/o negativas de cada una. Los Modelos—padres, profesores, etc.—pueden explicar cada situación y hacer preguntas tales como “¿Qué está pasando aquí?” Entonces, los niños pueden hacer el papel de las habilidades que tienen uno a uno con un adulto o en un grupo hasta que tienen la suficiente confianza como para practicarlo en interacciones en la vida real.

Este libro enseña habilidades tan importantes como:

In Autism Is the Future, Marlo Payne Thurman reveals how cognitive differences are the constructing pieces in understanding those with autism. Through her findings, she shows how those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) constantly challenge assumptions about intelligence and measuring intelligence.

Thurman proposes that sensory and cognitive development have evolved together into a very different form of intelligence in those with ASD, and it should be viewed not as a disability but instead as a difference to be celebrated and followed.

Thurman began working with children diagnosed with ASD in 1986. With group home management and intensive ABA therapy in her early career, she developed a special interest in meeting the unique needs of those individuals who were asynchronously developed into the realms of the "ASD savant." Most recently, she completed a landmark study proposing an alternative sensory-cognitive difference theory based on her extensive discussions and interactions with diagnosed adults. This research was the foundation for this book.

The Simplest Strategies Can Be the Most Effective!

Autistic children, as well as those with related challenges, all have great potential. However, all too often they don’t reach it. In Simple Strategies that Work, the authors provide easy-to-implement ideas and suggestions that teachers can use to guide students on the road to success.

Parents who find out their child might have autism are overwhelmed with doctors, therapists, and information all at once. It can be difficult for these parents to find the answers they need in a sea of resources, especially for a parent who is not familiar with autism terminology and treatments. This little book is the perfect way to get acquainted with autism and early intervention strategies. It answers questions such as:

In addition to Dr. Melmed’s compassionate yet practical advice, this book offers easy-to-read charts, a glossary of autism terms, and a comprehensive, annotated list of resources.

Every child begs for one more story before bed.

Finally, social skills expert Carol Gray has provided a solution with The Last Bedtime Story That We Read Each Night

Short, sweet, reassuring, and to-the-point, this instant classic helps children go to sleep quickly and calmly. According to parents, this book has ended bedtime arguments after just one night!

When parents clearly and warmly state that this is “The Last Bedtime Story,” children relax their bodies and minds as it is being read to them. They know there are no more stories to be begged for. Plus, Carol carefully wrote this book so it can be read in less than one minute!

The only question that remains is: why didn’t anyone think of it sooner?

A child’s sensory system affects their ability to learn, play, socialize and function. Maybe a child isn’t able to sit still in class because his shirt tag is bothering him, or isn’t able to play with other children because his balance is off. Maybe your child isn’t just a picky eater, it could be that his sensory system needs some special guidance and adjusting.

Britt Collins, MS,OTR/L and Jackie Linder-Olson, an occupational therapist and parent team, have organized and combined parenting information along with sensory integration methods, tips, and solutions. We’ve made it easy and fun and will help you avoid a lot of unnecessary battles between you and your child. It’s amazing how quickly our children adapt and the little adjustments that can make our days smoother. Beginning with your baby’s birth, Britt and Jackie walk parents through everyday situations and duties all the way through your child’s early stages of development through the first five years. They explain the underlying reasons beneath your child’s negative behaviors and the often simple fixes.

Help Children Help Themselves!

Most students thrive on consistency and it’s especially important for autistic students. Without it, teachers can expect them to experience higher levels of anxiety and more meltdowns. Because of their neurology, autistic students learn best when they know exactly what they are going to do, when they are going to do it, and with whom they will do it.

Despite knowledge and well-intended efforts, educational systems often create a lack of predictability for students when they transition from year to year. Teachers certainly try. They’ve read last year’s IEP, took part in creating a new one, and have read all the information in the student’s file. But they still don’t know details, such as what the student’s mini schedule looks like and what prompts are needed to support social interaction. Until now.

Starting the School Year Well provides a simple way for teachers to learn from past educators through the completion of three simple-to-use instruments:

• Transition Checklist
• Comprehensive Autism Planning System
• Learner Snapshot

These tools allow educators to immediately implement effective strategies instead of spending time engaged in trial-and-error instruction. These instruments create a smoother transition that enhances learning. Also included is an extensive approach to behavior challenges that results in real change! If behavior challenges occur, use this student-and-teacher-friendly approach to teach new behaviors and provide support.

By eliminating guesswork as you get to know a student at the beginning of the year, you can get right to work teaching them new skills that match how they learn.

"Anyone browsing autism books might question that two authors could amass this many ideas and that all of them would be ‘great,’ but this book delivers.” — from the Foreword by Dr. Temple Grandin

Over 1800 try-it-now tips, eye-opening perspectives, and time-saving strategies abound in this revised edition of the 2004 multi-award-winning  book that has been read and reread again and again by hundreds of thousands of people in fourteen languages around the world. Readers can easily find explanations and solutions that speak to the diverse spectrum of developmental levels, learning styles, and abilities inherent in autistic children, at home, at school, and in the community.

Ideas are offered in six domains: Sensory Integration, Communication and Language, Behavior, Daily Living, Thinking Social, Being Social, and Teachers and Learners. The Table of Contents details more than 330 subjects, making it easy to quickly pinpoint needed information.

• Accessible ideas that don’t require expensive devices or hours of time to implement.
• Relatable ideas and solutions to situations that most parents, educators, and/or family members will recognize.
• Functional ideas that help prepare the autistic child for a meaningful adulthood.

Awards for 1001 Great Ideas:

• Winner of the Eric Hoffer Book Award for Legacy Nonfiction
• Winner of the American Legacy Book Award for Education/Academic
• Winner of the American Legacy Book Award for Parenting and Relationships
• Silver medal, Independent Publishers Book Awards
• Gold award, Mom’s Choice Awards
• Finalist, American Legacy Book Awards, Cross-genre Nonfiction
• Teachers Choice Award, Learning magazine

Historians have long remarked on Thomas Jefferson's "peculiarities." But it took author Norm Ledgin, whose son has Asperger's Syndrome, to see what others did not. In this intriguing book, Ledgin carefully constructs a convincing case for the likelihood that Thomas Jefferson had Asperger's Syndrome.

He matches Jefferson's behaviors with five diagnostic criteria for Asperger's: social impairment, preoccupation with "special interests," impairment in nonverbal communication, lack of emotional reciprocity, and inflexible adherence to nonfunctional routines. He also addresses other well-known signs of Asperger's, such as failure to recognize social cues, need for calming pressure, and indifference to peer pressure. A fascinating read!

Autism is old and unruly. It’s been a part of us since we first left handprints on cave walls 40,000 year­­s ago. AUTISM AND US covers a long-stretch view of its neurological history and how society has judged it.

With quotes from old medical records, folk-tale beliefs, and Victorian literature, the book conjures up the 19^th century­ mix of ignorance, cruelty, fumbling knowledge, and surprising love that led to the first medical recognition of autism as a social disorder. From that medically significant recognition has grown our present day neurological and cognitive understanding. 

Eustacia Cutler, autism expert and mother of Temple Grandin, delivers a colorful and reliable account of the pioneers it has taken for autism to gain understanding and acceptance in families, neighborhoods, schools and job markets.

This is the story of Buttercup the Bee who is feeling down about what she sees going on around her because of how people are treating each other and the world itself. With the encouragement of her bee friend, Bluebell, she decides to find ways to make her world a better place by being kind and helpful.

By engaging in these small acts of kindness, Buttercup begins to see her world become a friendlier, more colorful, and better place to live. The story book can accompany the How to Be Kind workbook to show children how the strategies may work for them.

Beautifully illustrated, Buttercup: The Queen Bee of Kindness teaches us that we all need to work together to make the world a better place… and that everyone deserves to be treated with kindness.

This unique and easy-to-use lesson plan was developed to share information about Autism Spectrum Disorders with general education students, to explain behaviors that might otherwise be misinterpreted as frightening, odd, or rude. Reviewing of the five senses with students creates the perfect introduction to their sixth—or social—sense. Then the perspective-taking activities focus on how other people see, hear, touch, taste, and smell, and how that can affect the way they feel and think. The Sixth Sense II is more comprehensive than the previous release and is appropriate for elementary students ages seven to twelve. This revised version also includes an FAQ section and a helpful Resource Guide!

Helpful topics include:

NAPPA Award Winner! Mom's Choice Award Winner!

Many parents are not sure of what to say and do to help their children improve their social interactions.

This book helps open the door of communication between parent and child by addressing 100 social rules for home, school, and the community. Using simple, easy-to-follow rules covering topics such as body language, manners, feelings, and more, this book aims to make students' lives easier and more successful by outlining specific ways to interact with others on a daily basis. Foreword by Ann Gordon, PhD, BCET.

Discovering and nurturing a person’s superpowers can bring meaning to life—and a feeling of self-worth. This book is a quick read with a fun and approachable format for a wide age range. You will find examples, stories from individuals and families, as well as references and further resources in the text. At the end of each chapter, the reader can note their discoveries. Through their individual strengths, autistic people can experience a more positive and fulfilling life. The systems that surround neurodiverse people put more emphasis on the person’s “deficits” rather than affirming those differences—often feeding low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.

This book is a guide to challenging these systems, and shows how to nurture each person’s superpowers. Every autistic person is unique in their personal sensory experience, their traits, and the effects of autism they experience. The aim of this book is to help you and your allies discover and nurture your strengths: sensory abilities, personality traits, and interests. Consider this book a path toward living your best life.

Everyone feels stress adults and children alike. It is part of life. But life can be a lot easier when we learn new skills and ideas to help us handle the stress in our lives.

Totally Chill: The Complete Guide to Staying Cool is a stress management workbook that is meant to be read, completed, and used as much as possible by children themselves. Its fun graphics and interactive style make it ideal for children grades 3 through middle school.

When parenting, teaching and working with children who have social, emotional, and/or sensory sensitivities, we often put the emphasis on learning new skills. Countless hours are spent working on social skills, fine- and gross-motor skills, language skills, and academic skills, but stress management skills are often left unaddressed. This is unfortunate, as stress can create a multitude of challenges for learning and daily living. In other words, it can create barriers to the very things we are trying to teach. Besides, it can cause distress, which can lead to meltdowns and behavioral outbursts. In short, it is crucial that children learn and develop skills to help them to manage their stress as independently as possible.

Once a diagnosis of autism is made, a myriad of questions arises. Why is this happening? What can I do? How will I cope? What will the future bring? Will I ever smile again?

A roadmap is needed, a handbook to refer to when all seems overwhelming. The priorities are to begin the healing process and to start treatment. The way to ensure success is to begin with the end goals in mind. It is remarkable how things fall into place once a vision of the future is formulated – a productive, upstanding, and most important, happy adult!

The Autism Parent Handbook walks parents through the steps of early intervention by demonstrating ways to achieve the most optimal outcomes. We address the following:

Wherever a parent is on their parenting journey, and whatever age the child is, now is the time to look forward and plant seeds for the future, beginning with the end in mind. Our shared goal is to honor the glory that is in all of us, and to enhance each child’s journey towards their fullest potential. If you are now confused and overwhelmed, you need a compassionate and optimistic guide for the early years and beyond. Where to start? Right here.

First Runner-Up in the 2006 Writer’s Notes Book Awards!

This book utilizes the strengths of children with ASD to help them develop new skills. Tasks are visually oriented and consistent, and expectations are clear. Children learn motor, matching, sorting, reading, writing, and math skills using easy-to-make “task boxes.”

Tasks include pushing items through small openings (children love the “resistance” it takes to push them through), matching simple, identical pictures or words, sorting objects by color, size, or shape, and more!

Ideas are plentiful, materials colorful, and children love the repetitive nature of the “tasks,” which help them learn to work independently! Sample data sheets are included.

Winner of the IPBA Gold Medal for Nonfiction Series (with Ten Things Your Student with Autism Wishes You Knew) and Winner of the Grand Prize for Instruction and Insight and First Place in Psychology, Chanticleer International Book Awards.

One of the autism community’s most beloved classics, Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew has informed, delighted, and guided millions of families and professionals the world over since its first edition was published in 2005.

A child’s voice leads into each chapter, offering a one-of-a-kind exploration into how ten core characteristics of autism affect our children’s perceptions and reactions to the surrounding physical, sensory and social environments. This revised and updated third edition sharpens the focus on these basic aspects while expanding on how our own perspectives shape the life of our child and ourselves, today, tomorrow, and for years to come. An all-new section illuminates the surprising breadth of our power of choice and outlines potent strategies for strong decision-making in every situation.

Every parent, teacher, social worker, therapist, and physician should have this succinct and informative book in their back pocket. Framed with both humor and compassion, the book lists the top ten characteristics that help illuminate—not define—children with autism. Ellen's personal experiences as a parent, an autism columnist, and a contributor to numerous parenting magazines coalesce to create this guide for anyone with someone on the autism spectrum in their life. (There is also an edition of this book available in Spanish)

Other awards include:

• Grand Prize Short List, Eric Hoffer Book Awards
• First place in Psychology, Chanticleer International Instruction and Insight Awards
• First Runner-up – Health, Eric Hoffer Book Awards
• Montaigne Medal finalist, Eric Hoffer Book Awards
• American Book Fest Best Book Awards finalist
• National Indie Excellence Book Awards finalist
• Da Vinci Eye Award finalist, Eric Hoffer Book Awards
• Wishing Shelf Book Awards (UK) finalist

Is your child with autism getting ready to live on their own? Stuff You Need to Know is a guide to help kids and young adults with autism learn the most basic skills to achieve independence. This workbook covers beginner-level tasks such as:

And more!

This resource, written by a mom and proven to have helped hundreds of young adults even before publication, will help your child take their first steps to a safe, happy, and independent life.

This book epitomizes the value of the phrase "been there, done that!" In this amazingly helpful guide for family members, friends, and professionals, author and mom Kathy Labosh and special-educator LaNita Miller take on the issues and obstacles that parents and educators face every day.

Hundreds of easy-to-read bullet points provide tips that readers can put into action immediately. First they cleverly tackle home life, from breakfast to bedtime, and then they take readers on a trip through the community, offering essential dos and don’ts for going to restaurants, church, the doctor’s, the grocery store, family gatherings, and more! With Kathy and LaNita’s insight and advice, you can be better prepared for the unique challenges autism throws your way!

Good Touch, Bad Touch is a must-read for all parents who want their children to learn to advocate for their own safety and personal boundaries.

When it comes to bad touches, Bobby advises children, "Whether it is a stranger, or someone you know well, the rules to be safe are always the same: Say no! Run away! And find a grown-up friend to tell!" This book is designed for parents to read with their children, and for teachers to share with their classes. Empower your children to keep themselves safe!

• Bobby and Mandee’s Touch Test a quiz along with page numbers for each answer
• 911 Tips for Parents a guide for teaching kids when and how to dial 911
• My List of Safe Grown-ups to Call a blank form that parents and children can fill out together
• Secrets and Surprises—There’s a Big Difference!
  

Temple Grandin is the most famous person with autism in the world. Whether you know her from the HBO movie, Temple Grandin, her decades of work in the meat and cattle industry, or her unmatched contribution to the autism world, surely you know a thing or two about Temple. Well, prepare to meet a whole new side of her in Temple Grandin: The Stories I Tell My Friends. Temple’s close friend and author, Anita Lesko, conducts personal and unique interviews that include chapters such as:

• Filming of the HBO Movie, Temple Grandin, with Clare Danes
• Crazy Funny Stuff and Childhood Memories
• Thrilling Events in Temple’s Life
• Work Hard to Succeed
• Temple’s Big Message

And so much more!

In these pages, witness the moments that made her laugh (and cry!), meet those closest to her, and even take a glimpse into her seventieth birthday party. Discover Temple’s “big message” and her ideas about what makes the biggest difference for children with autism. Lesko has created a truly personal, unique look into the mind and life of Temple Grandin. This is a story you don’t want to miss.

Typically, ASD high school graduates are unprepared for the transition to independence. Early, ongoing training in the social skills crucial to establishing successful adult relationships—in college, vocational school, residential living, or on the job—can help. Preparing for Life guides readers through the legal, financial, educational, vocational, and community resources available after graduation. The essence of the book lies in the 73 “Skill Lessons” targeting:

Parents and teachers often struggle with the advice given by occupational therapists regarding support for children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). What makes this book unique is the exploration of secrets that professionals sometimes hold close.

This book helps us see the big picture: A child’s strengths, sensory differences, the family’s role, and ways to support children in any context. The authors illuminate the complexities of choosing appropriate strategies and offer a framework to make creating a sensory lifestyle manageable.

This invaluable resource, updated and in a new edition, provides cost-effective, functional, and on-the-spot problem-solving tips to use at home, at school, or in a community setting with children with sensory issues. Any parent, teacher, or therapist can learn the common-sense strategies in this book to help a child with sensory or motor skill issues.

Up to 85% of the Asperger's population are without full-time employment, though many have above-average intelligence. Rudy Simone, an adult with Asperger's Syndrome and an accomplished author, consultant, and musician, created this insightful resource to help employers, educators, and therapists accommodate this growing population, and to help people with Asperger’s find and keep gainful employment.

Rudy's candid advice is based on her personal experiences and the experiences of over fifty adults with Asperger's from all over the world, in addition to their employers and numerous experts in the field. Detailed lists provide balanced guidelines for success, while Rudy's "Interview Tips" and "Personal Job Map" tools will help Aspergians, young or old, find their employment niche. There is more to a job than what the tasks are: from social blunders, to sensory issues, to bullying by coworkers, Simone presents solutions to difficult challenges. Readers will be enriched, enlightened, and ready to work—together!

In Working While Autistic, Wendela Whitcomb Marsh delves into the challenges and triumphs autistic individuals face in the workplace. From acing the initial interview to navigating workplace politics, this is the handbook you need to get your career in gear. Employment can be a major challenge for autistic adults, and many are unemployed or underemployed. They may be highly skilled, motivated, and eager to work, but finding and keeping a job seems out of reach. Why is it so difficult?

• How to find the right career path
• Six Characters in Search of Employment (fictional autistic folk who illustrate the strategies in each chapter)
  
• Goalsetting
• Honing your interview skills
• Messages from autistic mentors (actually autistic workers share their wisdom and lived experience)
  
• And much more!

Dr. Marsh is an award-winning author, sought-after speaker, and founder of Adult Autism Assessment Services, which specializes in late-diagnosed autistic adults, who often struggle to find recognition and acceptance for themselves without the need to mask.

Working while Autistic is also a valuable resource for employers.

Dr. Tony Attwood and Craig Evans are pleased to introduce "Ask Dr. Tony," their second book together. The book is a compilation of fifty episodes of the Autism Hangout question-and-answer program video series in which Dr. Tony Attwood directly addresses the most pressing questions of those touched by autism. It also includes bonus sections of questions and answers from specific groups such as parents, teachers, public servants, social workers, and more. This book is an invaluable resource to keep helpful information present and available to the public. Craig and Dr. Tony's mutual goal? Thriving with autism!

This inspiring and informative classic only gets better!

Temple’s primary mission is to help people with ASD and ADHD tap into their hidden abilities. Temple chose contributors from a wide variety of skill sets to show how this can be done. Each individual tells their own story, in their own words, about their lives. From relationships, bullying, making eye contact, honing social skills, and eventual careers, these stories have something everyone can learn from.

Different ... Not Less shows how, with work, each of the contributors:

If you’ve read the first edition, you’ve only gotten half the story. Temple Grandin and these amazing contributors proudly display their growth as they take us along on their journeys.

Helpful chapters include:

• What Does It Mean for You to Be Autistic?
• Our Brains
• Accepting Your Autism
• Being Different
• Time Alone and Time with Others
• Mistakes
•  Friends
• God in Your Life
• Seeing Autism as a Challenge

Winner of an iParenting Media Award!

Is your child a picky eater, or a full-fledged resistant eater? Does he or she eat only 3-20 foods, refusing all others, eat from only one food group, or gag, tantrum, or become anxious if you introduce new foods? If so, you have a resistant eater. Learn the possible causes, when you need professional help, and how to deal with the behavior at home. Learn why “don’t play with your food” and “clean your plate”—along with many other old saws—are just plain wrong. And who said you have to eat dessert last? Get ready to have some stereotypes shattered!

Helpful chapters include:

• Who Are Resistant eaters?
• Oral-Motor Development
• Environmental and Behavioral Factors Contributing to Problems with Eating
• Designing and Implementing a Comprehensive Treatment Plan
• Stages of Sensory Development for Eating
• A Recipe for Success

And more!

Puberty can be especially tough when young people have autism or other special needs. Through simple stories similar to Carol Gray's Social Stories® , author Mary Wrobel teaches caregivers exactly what to say (and not say) and shows how you can create helpful stories of your own. Mary addresses hygiene, modesty, body growth and development, menstruation, touching, personal safety, and more. Young students can benefit from self-care skills such as using the toilet, brushing teeth, and washing hands. Parents and teachers should begin teaching these necessary skills as early as possible, even from ages three to five. The ultimate goal is to maximize the child's potential for independence and lifelong social success.

Children with autism CAN learn about God!

Endorsed by religious leaders, this groundbreaking book offers a step-by-step lesson plan for family members, educators, and church staff—including scripted narratives, group activities, prayers, scripture readings, classroom setup guidance, lists of additional resources, and more. Each lesson is also accompanied by a Scripture Study for instructors to help them prepare for each class, where the author provides additional ideas and discussion questions.

Students learn about:

And more!

PARENTS and TEACHERS learn:

And more!

Helpful chapters include:

• Leave My Home for a Home
• Interesting Associations in the Home
• I Re-Enter the World
• Discovering Autism
• What Autism Is To Me
• Professionals and More Ideas on Autism
   

It's a great resource for occupational therapists, teachers, and parents to share with children. Resources for adults at the end of the book include definitions of sensory processing and sensory modulation disorder, suggested discussion questions, and lists of related books and websites.

¡Ganador de un premio 2008 Teachers' Choice Award! La ansiedad puede ser debilitante para cualquiera, pero puede ser especialmente confusa para un niño. Aprender sobre las emociones ayuda a los niños a reconocer las conexiones entre pensar y sentir, y los efectos fisiológicos de la ansiedad en el cuerpo (sudoración, aumento del ritmo cardíaco, llanto, etc.). Este libro proporciona una guía para cuidadores junto con una sección de libro de trabajo que permite a los niños identificar situaciones que provocan ansiedad y les enseña cómo percibirlos de manera diferente.

Los temas útiles incluyen:

My oh My - why are you so picky?
Because this shirt is really itchy!

Pete finds his clothes uncomfortable and can't stand "paint, soap, and things with lumps." He explains this to his mother and the reader in this fun children's book, as he and mom navigate a difficult, but typical, morning in the life of a young boy with sensory issues. Written by an occupational therapist, this picture book is a must-have for any child with sensory processing disorder.

Michele Griffin is a pediatric occupational therapist. While working as a therapist, she was intrigued by the children who were 'extra-sensitive'. They often demonstrated strong dislikes for haircuts, loud noises, tags in shirts, seams on socks and food with lumps. Sensitive children, or those with sensory issues, are challenging for parents to rear! These children and their parents are the inspiration for this book, which helps foster communication, tolerance and understanding between parent and child.

Toilet training can be a battleground for parents and children. In this book—the only one on the market dealing with the specific issues involved in toilet training children with autism—Maria Wheeler offers a detailed roadmap for success, based on over twenty years of experience. Easy-to-read bulleted lists offer over 200 do’s and don’ts presented, along with more than fifty real-life examples. Learn, among other things, how to gauge “readiness,” overcome fear of the bathroom, teach how to use toilet paper, flush and wash up, and deal with toileting in unfamiliar environments. A life preserver for parents and reluctant children!

Helpful chapters include:

• To Tell or Not to Tell
• Taking the First Step
• Section 504 Regulations
• Basic Advocacy 101
• Developing the IEP: Goals and Objectives Specially Designed Instruction
• Supports for Personnel: Supports for Students
• Designing a Social Skills Program
• Teasing and Self Esteem
• What to Do with Problem Behaviors
• What to Do When the Team Can Not Agree

From her troubled teenage years in a state institution where her coping behaviors were interpreted as defiant and oppositional, to her years in a Christian community where her behaviors were misunderstood, to a brief marriage and the birth of her three sons, Judy has emerged as a strong voice on the autism spectrum. This book reveals Endow's resilience, courage, hard work, and sheer willpower. Paper Words: Discovering and Living With My Autism shows visually on the printed page how Endow, a highly visual thinker, translates her thoughts into words. 

Additionally, individuals with anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia may also exhibit deficits in EF. The good news is that there are evidence-based strategies that can be used at home, in school, in the community, and in work situations that can significantly improve the executive functioning of individuals who struggle in this area. FLIPP the Switch: Strengthen Executive Function Skills is a practical book written for parents and educators by parents and educators. The target audience is anyone who works with young people ages 3-22 who have difficulties with organization, flexibility, impulsiveness, or problem-solving. Readers will learn about executive function (EF) and how EF skills contribute to success in school, at home, and at work. Most importantly, readers receive specific instructions, templates, and how-to scenarios for 25 strategies with five strategies for each of the five FLIPP components flexibility, leveled emotionality, impulse control, planning, and problem solving. This book is indispensable for anyone who wants to minimize behavior challenges, maximize on-task behavior, and support positive social-emotional development in a child or student.

Dr. Temple Grandin discusses the real issues that parents, teachers, and kids face every day. Here is a concise handbook that illustrates what Temple has found to work in the field of education. Topics include:

• The importance of early intervention

• Teaching for different types of thinking

• Developing talent

• Motivating students

• Keeping high expectations

• And much more!

In these helpful pages, Dr. Grandin offers dos and don’ts, practical strategies, and try-it-now tips, all based on her insider perspective and extensive research. Interestingly, she argues that education for kids on the autism spectrum must focus on their overlooked strengths to foster their unique contributions to the world.

As Publishers Weekly noted "For educators or parents of autistic children, this will be a valuable resource."

Children will learn linguistic, cognitive, and social/emotional skills at the same time sensory integration and motor skills are being worked on and refined.

The Spanish version of Temple Did It and I can Too! is a children's book that will help guide and inspire all children to reach their full potential. Temple did it, and I can too! explains the obstacles Dr. Temple Grandin faced growing up, then gives the rules she followed to overcome them and become a leading animal scientist. It was written with the input and guidance of Dr. Grandin and includes an introduction written by her.

This book provides practical, hands-on strategies for teaching social skills to children with high-functioning autism and Asperger’s Syndrome. For use in both general education and special education classrooms, each chapter includes a detailed description of the social deficits of these children and ways to address them. Such issues include difficulties with understanding idioms, taking turns in conversation, understanding tone of voice, and body language.

During your time at the Social Detective Academy, you will learn some of the most important things a social detective needs to be aware of. Learning these things will help you become a skilled social detective capable of helping others solve their social mysteries, just like Johnny!

But even more than that, you will learn the tools for becoming a social ninja, capable of navigating some of the most complicated social mysteries that you might face in your own life.

The truth is that some of the best social detective training involves learning how to be more socially skilled yourself. If you can effectively navigate your own social world, you will be much more capable of helping others become successful in their own social journeys. This is how Johnny’s first students learned to become excellent social detectives themselves–by practicing solving their own mysteries.

Throughout this book, you will have the opportunity to test your skills by trying to solve social mysteries alongside some of Johnny’s first students. These mysteries came directly from these students’ personal lives and show how they used their social detective skills to make their own social lives better. As you read through the chapters, see if you can use the tools you are learning to identify social mysteries you might have in your own life.

Some of the ideas in this book are going to be pretty easy and straightforward. You will probably understand them with very little effort. But some of the things we will be talking about might seem a little more complicated at first. If there is something that you don’t quite get right away, don’t worry about it. That is to be expected. Just keep going and don’t let it hold you back. You can always come back to it later on.

If you don’t fully understand something, you will still be able to understand later things in the book. In fact, some of the things in this book will probably make even more sense as you read later parts of the book, so if something is not completely clear, keep reading on and come back. Johnny actually encourages his social detective students to come back and reread things even if they understood them the first time because rereading about important ideas can help you to have a deeper understanding.

Each chapter will also have a social detective concept summary at the end. These summaries are there to help you organize the most important concepts in each chapter. They serve as a good reference guide to come back to if you need to refresh your memory later on.

This Spanish language edition of Good Touch, Bad Touch is a must-read for all parents who want their children to learn to advocate for their own safety and personal boundaries.

When it comes to bad touches, Bobby advises children, "Whether it is a stranger, or someone you know well, the rules to be safe are always the same: Say no! Run away! And find a grown-up friend to tell!" This book is designed for parents to read with their children, and for teachers to share with their classes. Empower your children to keep themselves safe!

Un libro de lectura obligada para todos los padres que quieran que sus hijos defiendan su propiaseguridad y límites personales. Cuando se trata de tactos malos, Bobby aconseja a los niños: “Da igual si es un desconocido o alguien que conoces bien, las reglas para estar seguros siempre son las mismas: ¡Di no! ¡Vete corriendo! y ¡Busca un amigo o amiga adulta para contárselo!"

Este libro está diseñado para que los padres lo lean con sus hijos, y para maestros y maestras para compartir en clase. ¡Empodera a tus hijos para que estén seguros! Contenido bonus incluye:

Shred through Social Confusion!

The world around us is a complicated place filled with expectations, rules, assumptions, guidelines, regulations, and policies. This “hidden curriculum” exists across environments, places, people, and cultures. Although rules and mandates can be complex, most of us take comfort in them—often unconsciously—because they help us to know what to do in everyday situations.

We like rules if they are consistent. It is when they are unclear, or are unstated that we can become upset, indignant, or confused. Some people learn the hidden curriculum and its impact automatically. Others learn the hidden curriculum only by direct instruction, which is the purpose of this book.

In this third edition, the essential features of the original book have been maintained and information on evidence-based practices has been added. In addition, it provides a series of instructional strategies that can be used to teach the hidden curriculum. Instructional aids include charts, forms, and templates designed to make the job of teaching and learning the hidden curriculum more effective.

Finally, The Hidden Curriculum offers extensive lists of hidden curriculum items or unstated guidelines. Due to the elusive nature of the hidden curriculum, the lists—while broad—offer examples rather than a definite set of lessons to be learned. Parents, educators, support persons, and others are encouraged to consider the lists as springboards to make their own lists geared specifically toward the unique needs of the individuals with whom they work or live.

Who knows better about developing the talents of those with autism than Temple Grandin? This updated and expanded third edition of Developing Talents considers the continuing dismal employment statistics for individuals with autism. The authors take an in-depth look at entrepreneurship and many other options.

Using real-life examples, Grandin and Duffy note that many of the unique characteristics of individuals on the autism spectrum lend themselves well to entrepreneurial ventures. The book explores many unnoticed aspects of vocational rehabilitation programs that provide job training and placement for people with disabilities, as well as Social Security Administration programs that offer vocational assistance. Employment figures and prospects have been updated, and new jobs have been added that are well suited for those on the spectrum.

Foreword by Dr. Tony Attwood.

Transform the way your school engages with autistic children with this simple, yet powerful system!

Throughout this curriculum, the authors highlight evidence-based strategies that correspond to each area of the Comprehensive Autism Planning System (CAPS).

This innovative approach helps teachers and educational teams plan and implement a student’s education across the school, including the individualized education program (IEP), and each curriculum relevant to the student. It takes your team through:

• The process of planning the goals/objectives to be targeted in each daily activity
• The  modifications and accommodations that are needed to support the student in each activity
• The   sensory supports needed to help the student stay focused
• The communication and social supports that create an environment for successful learning

In addition, the authors explain the types of data to collect for each area and note what reinforcers have been shown to be successful.

While this system was developed for use with individuals on the autism spectrum, it can easily become an essential tool for any student, regardless of their special needs.

This third edition has been updated to address current trends in special education instruction and research; with emphasis is placed on:

• Inclusion
• Successful practices that support learning for autistic students
• Evidence-based practices and case studies that apply the CAPS to post-secondary education

Through the CAPS, autistic individuals have access to meaningful instruction that will allow them to reach their full potential, through realistic and practical means.

Karen Emigh’s son Brett—the “star” of all three of her books—was diagnosed with autism when he was six. Each book teaches a part of language that children on the autism spectrum often struggle with. In Herman’s Hiding Places, she teaches the concepts behind prepositions. Brett and his dog Herman play hide-and-seek, and Herman is “it.” Young readers will learn the meaning and uses of the prepositions “up,” “in,” “under,” and “behind” as they follow Brett on his search for Herman. This book will teach, delight, and entertain all young children.

Take one small step every day toward understanding the social world!

Based on the best-selling book The Hidden Curriculum: Practical Solutions for Understanding Unstated Rules in Social Situations, Future Horizons introduces The Hidden Curriculum Reusable One-A-Day Calendar. Designed to sit on a desk or table, this unique calendar includes a Hidden Curriculum tip for each day of the year.

Perfect for home and school, the carefully chosen items are sure to spark conversation and learning of those subtle social nuances that can make or break relationships, job situations, classroom behavior and more. What's more, it's perpetual—a sustainable way to help autistics and others the social skill they need to thrive.

• Do not share hurtful information about someone unless it will be helpful in some way. For example, it is generally not helpful to tell a person they are overweight or unattractive. Share helpful information, such as telling someone quietly that they have their shirt buttoned wrong.
• Doing a favor for someone does not automatically mean they will do a favor for you. Do a favor for someone because you want to — not because you want the person to return the favor right away. That way, if they decide to do you a favor, you will be pleasantly surprised.
• Fair means that everyone gets what everyone needs. It does not mean that everyone gets the same thing. Equal is when everyone gets the same thing. Fair is when everyone gets what they need.
• Always be on time. It is rude to make others wait for you.
• A purse, wallet, and backpack are personal and private items. Never open them if you do not have permission to do so.
• Always wear your seat belt when riding in a car. Even if the driver does not wear a seat belt, be sure you do. Your safety is very important.
• When you ask for help, it does not mean you are not smart; it means that you are resourceful and want to solve a problem or get things done.

I highly recommend this book for use with all individuals who have problems with reading comprehension. — Temple Grandin, PhD

Improve Reading Comprehension for Autistic Individuals

Although they may be excellent readers, those with autism often need support for comprehension. Comprehension difficulties are subtle, qualitative, and difficult to tease out. As a result, their substantial level of risk for reading comprehension problems is often overlooked or unaddressed, and many students struggle in silence.

This is where Drawing a Blank comes in. Even the most competent educational professionals in both general education and special education settings have limited training and experience helping autistic readers. Using a clearly stated and well-organized approach, Drawing a Blank provides educational professionals and parents with the tools to improve comprehension for good readers who have comprehension difficulties, as well as readers who struggle with both decoding and comprehension. This book explains where and why comprehension failure occurs and offers evidence-based and promising practices to use, based on a thorough assessment of a student's needs.

This second edition describes new evidence-based interventions and 15 new research summaries on how to implement them.

Behavior Solutions for the Home is a tool for parents whose children’s behaviors are impeding their daily life. Once they see a particular behavior, parents can quickly look up an in-the-moment solution and read more about what could be causing that behavior—and more importantly, how to overcome it. This helpful book is intended to provide general, practical solutions for busy (and often overwhelmed) parents who can benefit from a handy reference guide to help them address common behaviors at home and in the community. This book is a must-have for every parent and caregiver working with a child on the autism spectrum!

Learn how to stop a meltdown! This book offers tried-and-true solutions to minimize and circumvent the often frightening circumstances that surround the cycle of meltdowns, not only for the child with autism, but others in the environment as well.

A highly practical and user-friendly resource, Autism and Difficult Moments describes the three-stage cycle of a meltdown and identifies effective, evidence-based strategies to use at each stage. In addition, the book outlines how to prevent the occurrence of meltdowns through instruction, interpretation, and coaching. The author emphasizes the importance of utilizing systematic instruction and teachable moments before and after a meltdown. Dr. Myles also notes that meltdowns are not intentional.

Readers will appreciate the practical steps that are given to navigate meltdowns as successfully as possible.

Children are at an increased risk for pedestrian injury and death. This is because the traffic rules and risks often are beyond their thinking, developmental, behavioral, physical, and sensory abilities. In addition, parents and caregivers often overestimate their child's traffic skills. Bobby and Mandee's Be a Safe Pedestrian is an excellent resource to help kids easily learn the basics of pedestrian safety.

Topics include the definition of a pedestrian, types of intersections, making eye contact with drivers, and much more. In the words of the author: "I've written a book to help child-pedestrians stay safe and avoid accidents."

A Dating Coach in a Box!

Dating is stressful, isn’t it? If you’re autistic, the thought of trying to meet someone new can feel exhausting. Dating while Autistic: Conversation Starters is a delightful way to keep things going when there’s an awkward silence and your mind has gone inconveniently blank.

Based on the book, Dating while Autistic (part of the Adulting while Autistic series), this nicely designed card deck, 52 cards, (with four sections) will set you up for dating success. Think of it as a dating coach in a box!

Example conversation starters:

First Date

What book could you read again and again, or what TV show have you binge-watched? What do you love about it?

Let's Get Physical

Are you able to say No if your partner wants to try something that you don’t like or that you’re not sure about? If saying no is difficult for you, can you agree on a nonverbal signal?

Clarifying Commitment

If your life partner has a strong interest that you don’t share, how willing are you to spend time with them pursuing their interests?

Breaking Up Without Breaking

Even though this relationship has ended, what is one positive thing you learned that may be helpful in future relationships?

If you want down-to-earth guidance on how to have carefree conversations when dating, you’ve come to the right place. This savvy little card set is for you.

Diagnosed with autism at age fifty, Anita Lesko always knew something was different—but never let that stop her. In her incredible story, she describes how she went from an uncoordinated “misfit” kid to the successful and thriving adult she is today!

Lesko shares ALL her secrets to success, including:

And most importantly, patience and perseverance.

Some of the highlights of Anita’s life story include:

Through the framework of her impressive life, Lesko proves that you can do anything you set your mind to—and teaches you how to do it yourself.

Quality advice from a nurse with autism!

Winner of the Temple Grandin Literary Award. The Complete Guide to Autism and Healthcare is geared toward use in healthcare curriculum courses and is a guidebook for all healthcare and allied healthcare providers.

It's important for healthcare professionals to realize that communication starts at the admissions desk and follows through to the patient's discharge. Whether the patient is simply going for a routine doctor's appointment or getting admitted for major surgery, the patient with autism needs specialized care for optimal results.

This book is a comprehensive guide in understanding autism, formulating effective communication strategies, and developing the best care practices. It covers sensory issues, pain tolerance, body awareness, communication challenges, legal and ethical issues, HIPPA compliance, Americans with Disabilities Act, and much more.

The Sensory Wellness Reflection Journal is the companion piece of Sensory Wellness, the life-changing book that bridges the gap between understanding sensory wellness and putting it into practice. Think of this journal as a guide for learning how to bloom into your best self, just like a flower nourished by the right soil, water, and sunlight. The reflection questions and sensory exploration exercises will guide you along your journey, deepening your friendship with your brain and body.

While reflecting and engaging in these integration activities, honor and listen to your body. It is okay to pause, take a moment, call a friend, or take a pass. We can all live a more connected, joy-filled life by leaning into sensation: the path is yours to choose!

Drawing on the foundations of neuroscience, personal reflection, and practical strategies, the Sensory Wellness Reflection Journal invites readers to explore the profound impact of sensory input on their overall well-being. You will discover how tuning into your body's signals and adjusting your sensory environment can lead to a more connected, joyful life. Whether you are a parent, educator, therapist, or simply someone interested in improving your sensory health, this journal will provide valuable insights and techniques to help you grow.

Join the sensory revolution.

This life-changing guide will help bridge the gap between understanding sensory wellness and putting it into practice. Drawing on the foundations of neuroscience, personal reflection, and practical strategies, Sensory Wellness invites readers to explore the profound impact of sensory input on their overall well-being.

The journey begins with an introduction to the concept of sensory wellness, emphasizing the importance of reconnecting with our internal sensory experiences to support regulation and self-awareness. The author, an occupational therapist specializing in sensory processing, shares expert guidance with insightful anecdotes showing how sensory health can elevate us from merely surviving to flourishing.

Section Two delves into the intricacies of various sensory systems. Each chapter provides a detailed overview of the development, function, and impact of these systems on our daily lives. Through exercises and practical tips, it encourages readers to identify their sensory preferences and integrate sensory regulation strategies into their routines.

The book concludes by offering tools and techniques to enhance regulation, resilience, and overall health. By embracing sensory wellness, readers can foster deeper connections with themselves and others, improving relationships as well as work performance.

In Sensory Wellness, you will discover how tuning into your body's signals and adjusting your sensory environment can lead to a more connected, joyful life. Whether you are a parent, educator, therapist, or simply someone interested in improving your sensory health, this book provides valuable insights and techniques to help you grow.