Parenting Across The Autism Spectrum

Maureen F. Morrell and Ann Palmer are raising two very different children: Justin, a whirlwind of activity and mood swings, who is supervised in a residential farm community, and Eric, quiet and passive, who lives independently at college. The authors give an account of the striking similarities as well as the stark differences in their experiences of parenting children at opposite extremes of the autism spectrum. The two mothers speak openly about their children's diagnosis and early childhood through to adolescence, young adulthood and the day they leave home. They give a moving account of the challenges they faced and the surprising consolations they found along their sons' very different paths in life. Through their friendship and two decades of shared experiences of parenting an ASD child, each has gained a clear understanding of her own strengths and limitations, as well as those of her child. Parenting Across the Autism Spectrum offers a personal perspective and practical guidance for parents at the start of their journey with autism, especially those whose children are newly diagnosed. It also provides useful insights for professionals working with individuals across the autism spectrum and their families. The book was elected the 2007 Autism Society of America's Outstanding Literary Work of the Year.

This book looks at what it feels like to be an autistic parent, offering valuable insights, knowledge and wisdom on parenting autistic and non-autistic children. Three mothers reflect on their experiences of growing up as undiagnosed autistics, venturing into and embracing motherhood, and connecting with their children in a unique and powerful way. They offer advice on overcoming the challenges of parenting when you are autistic, such as socialising with other parents or sensory issues that come with excessive touch. Reflecting on their own experiences, they also emphasize the positives of being an autistic parent to an autistic child, such as understanding of why their child is struggling or the open-mindedness that can come from not being constrained by societal norms. They also explain how out-of-the-box thinking leads to creative parenting of non-autistic children, forming strong and loving bonds. Full of wit and warm advice, this book empowers autistic parents and reassures them that autism is a strength in raising their children with love, knowledge and experience, while also giving non-autistic parents and professionals a fresh perspective on helping autistic children to thrive.

Riley-Hall is the mother of two teenage girls, one with Asperger's syndrome and the other with autism. She offers encouragement and guidance on issues, as well as practical advice and support.

The authors discuss the challenges of raising an autistic child.

Exceptional Minds provides a powerful new way of thinking about autism and education, giving the reader the tools to see past student deficits and recognize the potential to learn and thrive. You will read about the practical and inexpensive techniques and strategies, along with profiles of leaders in autism education who have shaped the field.

Twenty-four parents poignantly share their experiences with raising a child on the autism spectrum. The challenges can be daunting. Nonetheless, the rewards are immeasurable. As one author notes, such children "will teach you about the meaning of life-the beauty of patterns and seeing life through a different lens."If you are a parent of a child on the autism spectrum, some of the scenarios will be familiar-multiple doctor visits in seeking a diagnosis, questioning your own parenting skills, navigating the educational system, worrying about your child's social life, and trying to stay one step ahead of potential meltdowns, not to mention the stress on the family.But you will also read parents' accounts of their wonderment and admiration when they catch a glimpse of their child's gifts and talents. As a parent of a son or daughter on the spectrum, you can appreciate how such moments remind you, again and again, that you are lucky to have this person in your life.This book is also for you if you don't have a child on the autism spectrum. You probably know someone living on the spectrum, perhaps a family member, a friend, or a neighbor. If you're a professional who works with children, chances are that some of them are on the spectrum. The stories described herein will give you a better understanding of how these children relate to the world, each in their own unique way. Start reading to meet these remarkable families!

A diverse collection of autistic voices that highlights how parents can avoid common mistakes and misconceptions, and make their child feel truly accepted, valued, and celebrated for who they are. Most resources available for parents come from psychologists, educators, and doctors, offering parents a narrow and technical approach to autism. Sincerely, Your Autistic Child represents an authentic resource for parents written by autistic people themselves. From childhood and education to culture, gender identity, and sexuality, this anthology tackles the everyday joys and challenges of growing up while honestly addressing the emotional needs, sensitivity, and vibrancy of autistic kids, youth, and young adults. Contributors reflect on what they have learned while growing up on the autism spectrum and how parents can avoid common mistakes and overcome challenges while raising their child. Part memoir, part guide, and part love letter, Sincerely, Your Autistic Child is an indispensable collection that invites parents and allies into the unique and often unheard experiences of autistic children and teens.

When you are raising a child on the Autism Spectrum, priorities and immediate concerns can often be wildly different to those of parents who are raising neurotypical children. The unique experiences and challenges are such that many typical families could not begin to imagine dealing with, and as a result, some parents who are raising a child on the Autism Spectrum might easily find themselves feeling isolated and overwhelmed. They might not have the ability or the resources required to consistently meet their own needs or their family's needs adequately.If you are the parent of a child on the spectrum, I am sure you can appreciate the value in connecting with other parents who are raising children with ASD. It can make a world of difference to those parents and to their children, and it is a large part of the reason why we wanted to publish this collection of stories. Another reason is a desire to reach out to a broader community and provide greater insight into the world of families raising children on the spectrum. It is our experience that education and awareness can also make a world of difference.Each of the 25 authors who have contributed to this collection have significant insights to share, and many work tirelessly within their communities to bring about positive change. While there might be some common themes throughout the book, each story is unique and the ways in which each of the parents approach the challenges of meeting their children's needs are many and varied. You are sure to find many experiences you relate to and you might even get some great ideas that you can put into practice in your home or in the classroom.As you read each of these stories you will want to laugh and you will want to cry, but most important of all, you will know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and you will know that you are not alone.