Descriptions

This small booklet introduces practical approaches for parents and caregivers who are setting up a program for a child.  Early concerns such as lack of speech, hyperactivity, promoting socialization, using pictures, behaviour, obtaining eye contact and some available resources, are just a few of the areas that are addressed.

This book is a compilation of strategies used by teachers, parents and other professionals currently working with autistic and P.D.D. individuals.  Practical approaches are included for the areas of verbal communication, augmentative communication, behaviour, sensory problems, utilizing everyday items for functional programming and a host of other examples from which to develop your own ideas.

This book is the largest of the trilogy.  It delves in detail into practical strategies to deal with a host of issues such as : emerging sexuality, transitions, issues related to the work force, socialization, communication, behaviour, living skills, feelings, emotions, using visuals, creative living options, and sections at the front of each chapter written by individuals within the autism spectrum disorder that give you a glimpse into their world.  The book was completed over several years while the author traveled across Canada and the United States speaking to parents and professionals alike who live and work with individuals having forms of autism.

This guide helps families or those who act on their behalf, navigate the complicated path to find in-home support workers, discern what to put in an individual's personal profile, interview prospective workers, train them, observe and assess their skills, resolve conflicts and much more.  The manual contains many reproducible forms including interview checklists, observation checklists, feedback forms, confidentiality forms, sample communication logs, sample activity skills sheets and examples of contracts.  

Proceeds from this book will go to a non-profit parent group which helps families 
in the Municipality of Chatham-Kent who have individuals with exceptionalities.

This book has been developed into three sections and can be used for all individuals with special needs.  It contains sections for

1)  Gathering the crucial information about the individual's level of skills.
This first section is filled with easy to use assessment checklists to help parents and professionals observe and assess:  social skills/communication, precursors for work related skills, work skills before a job placement as well as while 'on the job', living skills ( personal care, household chores, etc. ), areas which help the reader use pictures and videos when sharing information about the individual, leisure and recreation ( interests, level of independence etc. ), the suitability of the setting matched to the individual's special  needs-- and much more.

2)  Using the information and modifying it for home, school and community. The second section contains ideas as to how to make accommodations in the school, home and community.

3)  Sharing the information. The last section is a personal profile booklet, designed to be used not only to contain information about the individual but it also serves as the template for a TRANSITION PORTFOLIO and is filled with many reproducible sheets.

Proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to a charity which aids families with special needs.