Key Learning Skills for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Thomas L. Whitman is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Notre Dame, Indiana. His research and scholarship have centered on the investigation of biological and social factors that place children at risk for physical, cognitive and socioemotional problems. He is the author of over a hundred research articles and chapters, and five previous books. His current research and publications focus on stress and coping in mothers of children with autism spectrum disorders. He is the co-director of the Notre Dame Research Training Program on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, has been the recipient of numerous federal research and training grants, and has taught courses in the area of developmental disabilities and autism for most of his professional career.Nicole DeWitt's educational background is in the area of psychology. She has a Masters Degree in psychology and behavior analysis from Western Michigan University. She is a board certified behavior analyst who has trained graduate and undergraduate college students in the principles and application of learning-based education programs for children with disabilities. She has served as a director of home-based services for children with autism and their families. In her current position at the Sonya Ansari Regional Center for Autism she is involved in developing and evaluating intervention and education programs for children with autism in family, school and other community settings.

Educators and parents alike will find it extremely helpful as they navigate the often perplexing world of ASD. Addressing topics which include empathy, social engagement, communication, and attention, Whitman and DeWitt outline strategies that will enable caregivers to teach autistic children the skills they need to survive and thrive in a world that can be unforgiving in its demand for conformity.Whitman and DeWitt manage to strike the perfect balance between theory and practical advice… those who've gone past the overwhelmed stage and entered the determined stage will find enormous support. The authors are refreshingly matter-of-fact in their approach to autism and based solidly in the scientific camp. With their help, parents, educators, and children can all make great strides.

• Preface. 1. Selection of Appropriate Interventions. 2. Interventions. 3. Core Learning Skills. 4. Emotion-related Problems. 5. Sensory Problems. 6. Sensorimotor Deficiencies. 7. Language and Communication Problems. 8. Cognitive Deficiencies. 9. Social Interaction Problems. 10. Self-regulation Deficiencies. 11. Behavior Problems, Developmental Challenges and Medical Issues. Index.