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Understanding Autism requires thorough knowledge and not just the basics. This is why I'm always learning, even though books are great for educating nothing beats being around autistic individuals as they are each their own individual with their own unique abilities.
With that said reading is one of the best ways of learning, and there are some brilliant books about autism out there. Since B's diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder in March of 2019 I've read so many books about autism. I thought it was about time that I shared the ones I feel are a must read. April is the perfect month for sharing these since it is Autism Awareness Month.
This was the first book I read after B's diagnosis . It is a great introductory read and one that I feel is a must when you're first given a diagnosis. It combines the authors own experiences and tips featuring key areas in an easy to read way.
This is an unapologetic, deeply moving manual for parents of neurodivergent children. Follow Heidi's irreverent and brutally honest story of her fight to be seen, heard and supported, while swimming against a tide of parent blame, ableist stereotypes and the weight of other people’s opinions.
Clinical physcologist Dr Barry Prizant challenges the traditional views on autism in his book. Instead of seeing autism as needing to be fixed he advocates for a strengths based approach that emphasizes understanding and acceptance. “Uniquely Human” encourages readers to recognize the humanity and individuality of people with autism.
Written by Naoki Higashida when he was only 13, the reason I jump is a groundbreaking book. Naoki who is servery autistic and nonverbal gives a rare insight into an autistically-wired mind.
Published by the National Autistic Society this is a brilliant and essential resource for both parents and anyone who works with autistic individuals. Highlighting the common traits and behaviours and providing sensory strategies to meet autistic individuals needs.
A Picture's Worth examines verbal communication development and how autism impedes development of these skills and can cause frustration that can lead to problem behaviors. The authors demonstrate how providing many of the communication options described in this book such as PECS and the other augmentative and alternative communication strategies (AAC) can significantly reduce a child or student's frustration and enhance learning. This practical guide makes it easy for parents and therapists to get started using this low-tech strategy to help people with autism of all ages to develop effective communication skills!
One of the best ways for children with autism, Asperger's, and sensory processing disorders to learn is through play. Pediatric occupational therapist Tara Delaney shows you how to teach your children by moving their bodies through play. These interactive games are quick to learn but will provide hours of fun and learning for your child. And many of the games can be played indoors or outdoors, so your child can enjoy them at home or outside.
This children's book help kids, family, friends and caregivers to understand Autism Spectrum and some of the struggles and superpowers associated with it. The superhero of this book, Nathan, explains his Autism Spectrum superpowers, how they affect him, and ways his friends can help out when his superpowers spiral out of control. It's a great book that easily explains autism to children and I definitely recommend getting a copy for siblings, friends and other young family members.
B really struggles with dealing with angry feelings and this is the only book we've read to him that seems to help him. We've personally found it to be a great tool with explaining how to control anger and ways to help him to regulate.
