“Out and About is a unique, hands-on guide that parents and professionals alike should have in their libraries. The book details how to map out a Blueprint that acts as a guide for children as they head out into their communities. The specific examples make this a practical resource that will be referred to over and over again!” – Teresa A. Cardon, M.A., CCC-SLP, faculty research associate, Arizona State University, and author of Let’s Talk Emotions and Initiations and Interactions

Out and About is a timely piece that addresses the supports necessary to ensure successful participation and inclusion into the community for people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Hudson and Coffin have provided an inspiring hands-on book that will open doors and link positive experiences for people of all ages with ASD. The easy-to-read text and detailed use of functional examples make this book a necessity for anyone who supports a person with ASD. Add this book to your list of must-have resources.” – Ronda L. Schelvan, M.S.Ed., autism consultant, special education teacher, and co-author of The Hidden Curriculum, Practical Solutions for Understanding Unstated Rules in Social Situations

“This book includes lots of concrete examples of ways to prepare children of all ages and levels of functioning for successful inclusive participation in their communities. Out and About is a practical guide for parents and educators alike!” – Diane Adreon, associate director, University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism & Related Disabilities, and co-author of Autism and Adolescence and Simple Strategies That Work!

“In my work in an inclusive school setting and with my own children on the spectrum, I am always searching for resources that are easy to read and understand, simple to implement and provide functional tools to assist a child’s team. Out and About is all of that and so much more. I was thrilled to see so many practical strategies included into the comprehensive Blueprint. Anyone involved with a child on the spectrum would benefit from this book.” – Jen Blackwell, special ed. paraeducator, mother of four (one with AS, one with HFA), and cofounder of AutismNotes.com

“Families and community partners dream of our children with ASD having meaningful and successful experiences in our communities. Without effective tools to support them, we can leave discouraged and wondering if our dreams can become reality. The Blueprint in Out and About helps us be thoughtful about planning for success and increases our confidence that our dreams will come true.” – Angelia Parsons, MSW, counselor and parent of a child with ASD

INTRODUCTION...................1
ABOUT THIS BOOK..............5
THE BLUEPRINT....................7
THE TOOLS............................9
Waiting Plan..........................9
Communication....................10
Social...............................11
Visual...............................13
Hidden Curriculum....................14
Sensory......................................14
Motivation...........................15
Behavior...............................16
Transition..............................17
Siblings or Additional Students...................18
Additional Home and School Supports...............18
THE BLUEPRINT IN ACTION.............19
Recreational Activities.....................19
Restaurants......................................30
Stores..............................33
Appointments.....................39
Public Places..............42
Trips....................44
Special Events...........53
APPENDIX ..............55
5,4,3,2,1..............55
First … Then …...........56
Single Wait Card...................57
Time Timer.................58
AAC Device.......58
Communication Board...............58
Scripting...........................59
Verbal Prompting...........60
Cue Cards............................60
Social Narrative.........61Role-Playing.............62
Pri...........................62 Social Autopsies................63
Cartooning/Comic Stripping................64
SOCCSS...........65
Visual Schedules.........66
Choice Makers............................67
Graphic Organizer...............68
Power Card.....................69
Motivators in Action...............................70
Token System.....70
5-Point Scale......................71
Transition Cue...........................73
Blank Blueprint..............................74
REFERENCES .................................77