Books About Autism For Parents
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication and social interaction. It can be challenging for parents to understand and support their children with autism.
However, reading books about autism can provide valuable insights and guidance.
"The Reason I Jump"
This book by Naoki Higashida is a memoir written by a 13-year-old boy with autism. It provides a unique perspective on autism and offers insights into how people with autism experience the world.
The book is written in a question-and-answer format and covers a wide range of topics, from communication to sensory issues.
"Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew"
This book by Ellen Notbohm is a must-read for parents of children with autism. It provides practical advice on how to understand and support children with autism.
The book is written in a compassionate and insightful way and covers topics such as communication, behavior, and sensory issues.
"Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism"
This book by Barry M. Prizant challenges the traditional view of autism as a disorder and instead presents it as a different way of thinking and being. The author offers a strengths-based approach to autism and provides practical strategies for parents to support their children's unique needs.
"Autism Breakthrough: The Groundbreaking Method That Has Helped Families All Over the World"
This book by Raun K. Kaufman offers a unique perspective on autism treatment. The author presents a method called the Son-Rise Program, which focuses on building a deep emotional connection with children with autism.
The book provides practical advice and inspiring stories of families who have used the program to help their children.
"The Autism Revolution: Whole-Body Strategies for Making Life All It Can Be"
This book, written by Martha Herbert, offers a holistic approach to autism treatment. The author presents a comprehensive program that addresses the whole body, including nutrition, exercise, and stress management.
The book provides practical advice and case studies of families who have used the program to improve their children's health and well-being.
"The Loving Push: How Parents and Professionals Can Help Spectrum Kids Become Successful Adults"
Is a book co-written by Debra Moore and Temple Grandin. The book offers guidance to parents and professionals on how to help young people on the autism spectrum achieve success as adults.
The authors advocate for a "loving push" approach, which involves providing support and encouragement while also challenging individuals to develop their skills and abilities. Throughout the book, the authors draw on personal experiences and case studies to illustrate their points and provide practical advice for parents, educators, and other professionals who work with individuals on the autism spectrum.
"Autism Spectrum Disorder: The Complete Guide to Understanding Autism"
is a book written by Chantal Sicile-Kira. The book provides a comprehensive overview of autism spectrum disorder, including its causes, symptoms, and diagnosis.
It also covers treatments and interventions that can be helpful for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families. The author draws on her personal experience as the mother of an autistic son, as well as her professional expertise as a researcher and advocate in the field of autism.
The book is designed to be accessible to a wide range of readers, including parents, educators, healthcare professionals, and individuals with autism spectrum disorder themselves.
"An Early Start for Your Child with Autism: Using Everyday Activities to Help Kids Connect, Communicate, and Learn"
Is a book co-authored by Sally J. Rogers, Geraldine Dawson, and Laurie A. Vismara. The book provides a guide for parents and caregivers on how to support young children with autism in their development and learning through everyday activities.
The authors draw on decades of research and clinical experience to offer practical strategies for promoting social communication, play, and learning in children with autism. The book emphasizes the importance of early intervention and provides guidance on how to create a supportive environment at home.
It also includes case examples and resources for parents and caregivers. The book is written in an accessible style that makes it suitable for a wide range of readers, including parents, educators, and healthcare professionals.
Books About Autism Written By People With Autism
While there are many great books written by experts in the field of autism, it's also important to hear from those who have lived experience with the condition. Here are some books about autism written by individuals on the spectrum:
"Thinking in Pictures: My Life with Autism"
- by Temple Grandin
This book is a memoir written by one of the most well-known individuals with autism. Temple Grandin shares her personal experiences growing up with autism and provides insights into how her mind works.
The book offers a unique perspective on how people with autism think, feel, and experience the world.
"Look Me in the Eye: My Life with Asperger's"
- by John Elder Robison
This book is another memoir written by an individual on the spectrum. John Elder Robison shares his experiences growing up undiagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome and provides insights into how he has navigated life as an adult on the spectrum.
The book is honest, insightful, and often humorous.
"The Journal of Best Practices: A Memoir of Marriage, Asperger Syndrome, and One Man's Quest to Be a Better Husband"
- by David Finch
This book is a memoir written by a man who was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome after his marriage began to fall apart. David Finch shares his journey of self-discovery as he learns more about himself and his condition.
The book offers practical advice for individuals on the spectrum who want to improve their relationships.
"NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity"
- by Steve Silberman
This book is a comprehensive history of autism, from its earliest descriptions to the present day. The author explores the cultural, social, and scientific factors that have shaped our understanding of autism.
The book also highlights the contributions of individuals on the spectrum throughout history and argues for a more inclusive and accepting society.
These books offer valuable insights into what it's like to live with autism and provide important perspectives on how to support individuals on the spectrum. Parents who read these books can gain a better understanding of their children's experiences and learn how to support them in meaningful ways.
Books About Autism That Explore Experiences of Families With Multiple Children On The Spectrum
Families with multiple children on the autism spectrum face unique challenges that require specialized support. Here are some books that explore their experiences:
"The Autism Mom's Survival Guide (for Dads, too!)"
by Susan Senator
This book provides practical advice for parents raising multiple children with autism. It covers topics such as advocating for your child, managing stress, and finding balance in your daily life.
The author draws on her personal experience as a mother of three children with autism.
"Siblings: The Autism Spectrum Through Our Eyes"
- edited by Jane Johnson
This book is a collection of personal stories written by siblings of individuals on the autism spectrum. It offers a unique perspective on what it's like to grow up with a brother or sister who has autism.
The stories cover a wide range of emotions, from frustration to love and acceptance.
"A Full Life with Autism: From Learning to Forming Relationships to Achieving Independence"
- by Chantal Sicile-Kira
In addition to her other book listed above in this article, Chantal Sicile-Kira also wrote this book which focuses specifically on supporting individuals with autism through adulthood. She shares valuable insights into how families can help their loved ones achieve independence and lead fulfilling lives.
"Autism in the Family: Caring and Coping Together"
- by Robert Naseef
This book is written by a psychologist who specializes in working with families of children with special needs. It provides practical advice for families on how to cope with the challenges of raising a child with autism.
The author draws on his personal experience as the father of a son with autism.
These books offer valuable insights into the experiences of families with multiple children on the autism spectrum. They provide guidance, support, and inspiration for parents who are navigating the unique challenges of raising multiple children with autism.
The Benefits of Reading Books About Autism for Parents
Reading books about autism can provide numerous benefits for parents who have children with autism. These books offer a wealth of information, guidance, and support that can help parents better understand their child's unique needs and challenges.
Firstly, reading these books can help parents gain a deeper understanding of autism. They can learn about the different ways in which autism manifests itself and the range of challenges that children with autism face.
This knowledge can help parents develop empathy and compassion for their child's struggles.
Secondly, these books offer practical advice on how to support children with autism. They provide strategies for improving communication, managing behavior, and addressing sensory issues.
By implementing these strategies, parents can create a more supportive environment for their child.
Thirdly, reading books about autism can help parents connect with other families who are going through similar experiences. Many of these books include personal stories from other families who have navigated the challenges of raising a child with autism.
These stories can be inspiring and reassuring for parents who may feel isolated or overwhelmed.
Overall, reading books about autism is an invaluable resource for parents who are looking to better understand and support their child with autism. These books offer insights into the unique world of autism and provide practical advice on how to create a supportive environment for children with autism to thrive in.
How to Choose the Right Book for Your Specific Needs as a Parent?
With so many books about autism available, it can be overwhelming for parents to choose the right one for their specific needs. Here are some tips on how to choose the right book:
Consider your goals
What do you hope to gain from reading a book about autism? Are you looking for practical advice on how to support your child's communication or behavior?
Or are you interested in gaining a deeper understanding of autism and its unique challenges? By clarifying your goals, you can better identify which books will be most helpful.
Read reviews
Before purchasing a book, read reviews from other parents and professionals. Look for reviews that highlight the book's strengths and weaknesses and consider whether they align with your goals.
Check the author's credentials
When choosing a book about autism, it is essential to check the author's credentials. Look for authors who have experience working with children with autism or who have personal experience raising a child with autism.
Consider your child's age and developmental level
Some books may be more appropriate for younger children, while others may be geared towards older children or teenagers. Consider your child's age and developmental level when choosing a book.
By following these tips, parents can select the right book that will meet their specific needs and help them better support their child with autism.
FAQs
Can books really help me understand my child's unique needs and challenges?
Yes! Books about autism provide a wealth of information, guidance, and support that can help parents better understand their child's unique needs and challenges. They offer practical advice on how to support children with autism by providing strategies for improving communication, managing behavior, and addressing sensory issues.
Are there any books that can help me connect with other families who are going through similar experiences?
Yes! Many books about autism include personal stories from other families who have navigated the challenges of raising a child with autism. These stories can be inspiring and reassuring for parents who may feel isolated or overwhelmed.
Additionally, some books may include information about local support groups or online communities where parents can connect with others who are going through similar experiences.
How do I know if a book is right for me?
When choosing a book about autism, it is important to consider your goals. Are you looking for practical advice on how to support your child's communication or behavior?
Or are you interested in gaining a deeper understanding of autism and its unique challenges? Additionally, reading reviews from other parents and professionals can be helpful in determining whether a book will meet your specific needs.
Checking the author's credentials is also essential when selecting a book about autism.
I'm feeling overwhelmed by the number of books about autism available. Where should I start?
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed by the number of books about autism available! To get started, you may want to ask your child's healthcare provider or therapist for recommendations.
Additionally, browsing online bookstores and reading reviews from other parents can help you identify books that may be particularly helpful for your situation. Finally, consider joining a local support group or online community where you can connect with other parents who have experience navigating the world of autism literature.
Where can I purchase books related to autism?
You can buy books about autism from online retailers, Local Bookstore, Autism Organizations, Educational Institutions, E-Book Platforms, Local Support Groups, Secondhand Bookstores.
Summary
Reading books about autism can provide valuable insights and guidance for parents. Whether you're looking for practical advice or a new perspective on autism, there's a book out there for you.
These five books are a great place to start.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thinking_in_Pictures
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Reason_I_Jump
https://beaminghealth.com/article/12-books-every-parent-of-an-autistic-child-should-read
https://aheartforallstudents.com/books-about-autism-by-autistic-authors/
