Speech Therapy Center

Healthy Child Healthy World: Book Review

Healthy Child Healthy World: Creating a Cleaner, Greener, Safer Home, written by Christopher Gavigan.

Taken from Amazon

Nothing makes one more keenly aware of health risks lurking in the everyday world than becoming a parent. Most know the importance of using cabinet locks and child gates, but research is showing many more ways we need to be childproofing our homes. Tens of millions of American children now face chronic diseases and illnesses including cancer, autism, asthma, birth defects, ADD/ADHD, allergies, learning and developmental disabilities, as well as a host of lesser but disruptive ailments. And the growing research points to much of the increases on unseen threats wrought by exposure to chemicals in everyday products like cleaning supplies, beauty care and cosmetics, home furnishings, plastics, some foods and toys as contributing to these ailments. With that in mind, the non-profit organization Healthy Child Healthy World offers parents a definitive guide to creating a healthy, nontoxic, and environmentally sound home.

Filled with easy steps and simple solutions to improve family living without wreaking havoc on schedules or budgets, this book includes inspiring ideas for safe, eco-friendly cleaning methods, choosing healthier food, pet and garden care, nursery and home building materials, plus extensive tips for energy saving and family fun. With contributions from environmental science and public-health experts such as Dr. Phil Landrigan, Dr. Harvey Karp and Dr. Alan Greene, as well as many celebrity supporters (including Gwyneth Paltrow, Brooke Shields, Tobey Maguire, Sheryl Crow, Vanessa Williams, and Tom Hanks), Healthy Child Healthy World is the essential guidebook for parents wanting to go green.

This is an excellent book for all parents. Today our world is full of harmful and toxic pollutants and chemicals. Learn how to detoxify your home and teach your children how to be green and healthy. This book has been rated a 5 star read and is definitely worth your time!

For more information on this book, please visit:

http://www.amazon.com/Healthy-Child-World-Creating-Cleaner/dp/B001KOTU8S/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1281465658&sr=1-1

To learn more about the organization that sponsored this book, look at our “Organizations in Review” blog, at:

http://www.myspeechtherapycenter.com/?p=824

Boy Alone, A Brother’s Memoir: Book Review

Boy Alone, A Brother’s Memoir, written by Karl Taro Greenfeld

Taken from Amazon.com

Sibling rivalry—and love—of a ravaging kind is the subject of this unsparing memoir of the author’s life with his severely autistic brother. Journalist Greenfeld (Standard Deviations) describes his brother, Noah, as a spitting, jibbering, finger-twiddling, head-bobbing idiot; unable to speak or clean himself and given to violent tantrums, Noah and his utter indifference to others makes him permanently alone. But Karl feels almost as alienated; with his parents preoccupied with Noah’s needs (and Noah’s celebrity after his father, Joshua, wrote a bestselling account of his illness in A Child Called Noah), he turns to drugs and petty crime in the teenage wasteland of suburban Los Angeles. Greenfeld doesn’t flinch in his depiction of Noah’s raging dysfunctions or his critique of a callous mental health-care system and arrogant autism-research establishment. (He’s especially hard on the psychoanalytic theories of the Viennese charlatan Bruno Bettelheim.) But the author’s self-portrait is equally lacerating; he often wallows in self-pity—I return home stoned, drunk, puking on myself as I sit defecating into the toilet, crying to my parents… that I am a failure—and owns up to the coldness that Noah’s condition can provoke in him. The result is a bleak but affecting chronicle of a family simultaneously shattered and bound tight by autism.

This wonderful 5 star read is a great book for parents, family members, and professionals alike. Written in the perspective of an older sibling, you can experience the account of what it is like to have an autistic brother. Karl Greenfeld, son of writer Josh Greenfield, tells his side of the story and how Noah, his brother has shown him love, compassion, and purity.

Toilet Training for Individuals with Autism: Book Review

Toilet Training for Individuals with Autism or Other Developmental Issues, 2nd Edition, written by Maria Wheeler.

Excerpt taken from Amazon.

Individuals with autism are reportedly one of the most difficult populations to toilet train. This second edition offers effective strategies that take the child’s physical and emotional sensitivities into account instead of trying to force traditional methods. Easy-to-read bulleted lists offer more than 200 do’s and don’ts, along with over 50 real-life examples, to help make the process more of a lesson and less of a battle for all involved. The young trainee will learn to overcome fear of the bathroom, properly use toilet paper, flush once, wash hands, and more. The toilet trainer will learn how to overcome challenges caused by communication needs, sensory sensitivities, motor challenges, anxiety levels, etc

Toilet training is a difficult task for all parents. This four and a half star read will help you potty train your child in the easiest way possible. To purchase your copy, please click on the following link:

http://www.amazon.com/Toilet-Training-Individuals-Autism-Developmental/dp/1932565493/ref=pd_sim_b_2

Haley Moss: A Teen Mentor, Artist, and Author Who is Growing Up with Autism

Haley Moss is a 15-year-old autistic girl. She has been fighting autism since she was 3, and although she is high functioning, she has experienced the hardships that encumber autism. As a teen in high school, she finds herself ostracized from her peers; she’s not interested in the same things the other girls are. Her classmates also find her to be extremely shy, she does not engage in conversation unless she is spoken to first. But all these aspects are not because she dislikes peers, it is her autism that causes her to be socially awkward.
At only 15 years old, Haley has achieved a success that other teens her age have not. She recently wrote a book about the hardships of middle school, “Middle School, the Stuff Nobody Tells You About” where she talks about her experiences in middle school. The book also gives advice to fellow teens under the spectrum, as well as their parents, and teachers. She not only wrote the book, but illustrated it as well. She is highly talented in the arts and has already displayed her work in several expositions and won awards.
Haley’s autism has given her a different perspective in life, but one that has affected her in a very positive way.
To read the full article, please visit http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/04/02/autism.middle.school/index.html

You can read more about Haley, her accomplishments, and a little advice she has to give to fellow peers!

Further Challenges with ASD: Transitioning to Middle School, A Parent’s Guide

Having children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders can be a challenge at all stages of development. During the child years, both male and females go through hormonal changes. These changes can bring emotional and physical barriers, adding to the already difficult burden of the symptoms related to their disorder; for girls, menstruation and for boys, voice alterations and hair growth. Both genders will also be exposed to social changes and increased academic expectations. It is important for parents to be highly involved in their growth and behavioral, social, and cognitive development in order to make their child years the smoothest transition to adulthood as possible.

Middle school is one of the toughest transitioning events of all. That is why I will try my best to guide you through all of the steps necessary to make your experience a successful and even an enjoyable one!

Parenting your ASD Child through Social and Academic Changes

Social Issues

As a parent, you need to be prepared to deal with the issues of peers.  You need to be a strong model and influence for your child so that he/she can overcome the tribulations of middle school. Their symptomatic differences in behavior are many times the cause teasing, and bullying. As expected a child with ASD will be more negatively affected than other typically developing children, who also get their share of these aversive teenager routines.

The fact that individuals with ASD are not keen on social interaction contributes to their alienation from their peers. Getting them appropriate intervention through pragmatic language therapy can build the bridge between a lack of a social networking to making and keeping friends.

As a parent, you could play a vital role of your child’s progress. Try keeping a log of the child’s limitations so that they can be improved in a therapeutic environment via social scripts and reenacting of scenes.

Problem solving skills are also deficient in these children and are essential to survival in this more grown up world. Language therapy can teach your child to either problem solve a solution and compensate for their difficulty when it comes to social conflicts.

Academic Issues

You must become very involved in your child’s academic progress. Be proactive in his/her studies and speak frequently to his/her teachers as well. Make sure your concerns are addressed and documented at IEP (individual education plan) meetings.

Here are some simple steps to ensure academic success:
1.    Make sure that you know what subjects your child is enrolled in. Take part in choosing the subjects and the academic grade of the classes that your child is in. Don’t let the diagnosis dictate the setting. If your child functions at an age appropriate level, they should be mainstreamed for this subject.
2.    Don’t be afraid to ask for accommodations. Your child may need to special seating or a one-on-one paraprofessional to aid them with taking notes and following through on directions.
3.    Establish a good relationship with the teachers. Ask for their weekly plans and for homebound copy of the class textbook, so that you and their therapy team can be equipped to support them in school. This will ensure success in the classroom.
4.    Do not wait when negative situations arise. Although the educational team meets annually. If your child is failing a subject, encountering social challenges or is confronted with professionals not trained to help them succeed, only your voice can ‘make a difference’, so speak up and do not be shy.

Case Study on Bullying

Here is a sad story of a child with ASD who is confronted with text messaging bullying. The parent discovered a change in their son’s behavior and checked his phone for more information. What they found was bullying messages. A different method would have been to ask him about what kind of topics he was conversing about with his friends. Luckily, she found the problem early enough to correct it and avoid additional unnecessary conflict.

To read the full story on text bullying, please visit: http://adhdguide.blogspot.com/2010/04/texting-adhd-disaster.html#comment-form

Communicating with your Child

Ask your child frequent questions, but do not overwhelm. Let them trust you by trusting them to speak and you will be surprised at how much information they are willing to share.

Please check the following blog on communication styles, in order to help you understand how to better communicate with this now young adult that you are faced with.

Prepping Your Child for Middle School

As your child approaches the “big day” you should think of ways in which you can prepare them for what to expect.  Sit down with you child and talk to them about school, peers, teachers, and their expectations of the day.

Talking to your child about their new gained independence can help give them a positive image of the underlying hardships that are involved in growing up. In middle school you no longer have the same teacher for every subject, you switch professors depending on the class. This can be a scary image to your child. On a positive note, with appropriate practice in social skills, this is the perfect situation for socialization in between classes as you walk through the hallways.

Parents, most importantly you need to teach your child about respect for others and self-respect, along with what to do in certain negative situations. Unfortunately, individuals with ASD and other difficulties are at an increased probability for verbal, emotional, and/or physical abuse them. Offenders see them as easier targets due to their language and social limitations. Make sure you explain to your child the importance of self-respect and if someone inappropriately touches or handles them, they need to tell someone immediately.

Final Thoughts

Good parenting skills such being a good listener and empathy are vital during these years. However, remember that even though you are supportive parents, you are still “the parent”, and the main authority figure. You should be treated with the respect and love you deserve.

We know that it is difficult to raise a child and a strong support system is just as important as an informed parent. If you ever feel overwhelmed, you should contact a close friend, family member or a specialist for comfort and/or support.

Although this transition makes you apprehensive, keep in mind that you son/daughter is flourishing into the beautiful young adult, that you have helped them become. Trust yourself that you have done well parenting and that they can make good decisions and make you proud. We are proud of both of you for what you have accomplished.

Worthwhile Reads on ASD & Childs:

Girls Growing Up on the Autism Spectrum: What Parents and Professionals Should Know About the Pre-child and Childage Years, written by Shana Nichols, Gina Marie Moravcik, and Samaara Pulver Tetenbaum.

This book, talks about all the things girls feel when going through puberty including making and breaking friendships, boyfriends, and family ties. It also provides advice for parents, family, professionals, and teacher on how to help ASD child age girls.

Middle School- The Stuff Nobody Tell You About: A Childage Girl With ASD Shares Her Experiences, written by Haley Moss

Written as a personal account on the experiences she encountered, Haley Moss is an autistic girl who is currently in High School. She wrote this book, in her own words to share with the world her experiences with autism and middle school. She talks about fitting in and how she made friends and did well in school. She not only wrote this book, but also illustrated it.

Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum: A Parent’s Guide to the Cognitive, Social, Physical, and Transition Needs of Childagers with Autism Spectrum Disorders, written by Chantal Sicile-Kira, and foreworded by Temple Grandin

Chantal Sicile-Kira is the author of the award-winning book, Autism Spectrum Disorders. Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum, is a guide for parents on how to help their child deal with the cognitive, emotional, social, and physical needs. She covers an array of topics that will definitely advocate to better parenting and guidance.

All Dogs Have ADHD: Book Review

All Dogs Have ADHD, written by Kathy Hoopmann.

Review taken from Amazon.

All Dogs Have ADHD takes an inspiring and affectionate look at Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), using images and ideas from the canine world to explore a variety of traits that will be instantly recognizable to those who are familiar with ADHD. This delightful book combines humor with understanding to reflect the difficulties and joys of raising a child with ADHD and celebrates what it means to be considered ‘different.’ Absorbing and enjoyable, the book takes a refreshing approach to understanding ADHD.

This book is intended for children ages 4-8 and has been rated a 5-star read. It is both inspiring and entertaining, and gives children a different perspective on what ADHD is.  Enjoy!

All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome: Book Review

All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome written by Kathy Hoopmann.

Excerpt taken from Amazon.

All Cats Have Asperger Syndrome takes a playful look at Asperger Syndrome (AS), drawing inspiration from the feline world in a way that will strike a chord with all those who are familiar with AS. Delightful color photographs of cats bring to life familiar characteristics such as sensitive hearing, scampering at the first sign of being stroked and particular eating habits. Touching, humorous and insightful, this book evokes the difficulties and joys of raising a child who is different and leaves the reader with a sense of the dignity, individuality and potential of people with AS. This engaging book is an ideal, gentle introduction to the world of AS.

Written by the same author of All Dogs Have ADHD, it has been rated 4 and ½ star read and it targets the same audience. If you liked All Dogs Have ADHD, you’ll most certainly like this one too! This book compares cats to Asperger Syndrome in a funny, and adorable way intended to get the attention of its audience. Make sure you check it out!

Motivate to Communicate: Book Review

Motivate to Communicate by Simone Griffin and Dianne Sandler

Excerpt taken from Amazon.

Simone Griffin is a speech and language therapist, and has worked with children on the autism spectrum for the past 10 years. Dianne Sandler is currently working as a specialist teacher for inclusion, and has worked with children of all ages with autism and complex needs for 30 years. She has designed a number of toys that are available commercially for children with special needs.

This accessible and practical photocopiable resource is brimming with ideas and guidance for motivating children with autism spectrum disorder or other communication difficulties. The clear and user-friendly format of the book enables quick access to over 300 practical games and activities for using everyday toys and games in a range of settings throughout the day. For example, if your child likes to pop bubbles with their fingers, perhaps they would also enjoy counting bubbles? Or catching bubbles on a wand, stomping bubbles with their feet or even playing bubble volleyball. The many innovative ideas in the book have developed through over 40 years of clinical and educational experience, and are designed to be fun for both the adult and the child. All the resources mentioned in this book are readily available and can be utilized to develop all levels of communication, from reaching to using pictures to communicate, to increasing the length of the child’s verbal communication. “Motivate to Communicate!” is perfect for supporting professionals, parents and care givers to motivate and maintain motivation with this challenging group.

This book has 300 games and activities that will help your child with autism learn and comprehend important concepts that are necessary for school. It has been rated a 5-star read, and it is highly recommended by professionals.

A Spectrum of Light: Book Review

A Spectrum of Light: Inspirational Interviews With Families Affected by Autism, written by Francesca Bierens

Excerpt taken from Amazon

The emotional trauma that families go through when they find out their child has an autism spectrum disorder can feel like being plunged into darkness. Francesca Bierens is here to show that there is also a light at the end of the tunnel. Over a period of fourteen years, Francesca Bierens interviewed ten families of children on the autism spectrum. This book records their answers: how they felt, how they coped, and what gave them strength and solace. Each family discusses how they reacted when they found out their child had autism, and their feelings leading up to diagnosis. They share their positive and negative experiences of professionals, and describe the support that they received, often from grandparents, respite care givers, support groups and other parents. Two of the original children, now in their 20s, also talk about the experience of growing up with autism, and describe how their lives are now. Above all, Bierens’ message, and that of the families she interviews, is one of inspiration and hope, showing that there is light, love and laughter along the way. Their stories should be read by anyone who is affected by or working with autism.

This is a great book for parents of children with Autism. It gives insight and inspiration through individual accounts of the emotions involved when families are confronted with the difficulty of coping with a diagnosis as well as obstacles throughout the lifespan.

Thinking in Pictures: Book Review

Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism written by Temple Grandin

Excerpt taken from Amazon

Temple Grandin, Ph.D., is a gifted animal scientist who has designed one-third of all the livestock-handling facilities in the United States. She also lectures widely on autism–because Temple Grandin is autistic, a woman who thinks, feels, and experiences the world in ways that are incomprehensible to the rest of us.

In this unprecedented book, Grandin delivers a report from the country of autism. Writing from the dual perspectivies of a scientist and an autistic person, she tells us how that country is experienced by its inhabitants and how she managed to breach its boundaries to function in the outside world. What emerges in Thinking in Pictures is the document of an extraordinary human being, one who, in gracefully and lucidly bridging the gulf between her condition and our own, sheds light on the riddle of our common identity.

What better insight into Autism than to hear it from someone who has been through it her self. This amazing book is a great read for anyone whose family has been touched by Autism and is wondering what the future has ahead for their loved one. What an inspiring women, you will find through this read!