Empowered Autism Parenting Celebrating (and Defending) Your Child's Place in the World

by Stillman, William

• ISBN13: 9780470475874
• ISBN10: 0470475870
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2009-08-17
• Publisher: Jossey-Bass

Summary

William Stillman, an adult with Asperger's Syndrome, presents his latest revolutionary and thought-provoking book, Empowered Autism Parenting, as a challenge to parents of children with autism to perceive their child's experience from a totally new and unique "inside-out" perspective by understanding the following:Children with autism are intelligent but may have unconventional methods of communication-"behaviors" that need to be understood and appreciated Acknowledging your child's true intellect despite diagnoses to the contrary Realizing your own "autisms" to see why we are all more alike than different Why your child doesn't need traditional therapy or medication to "treat" autism How the autism industry perpetuates parental fear and guilt Understanding your non-verbal child's symbolic communications as legitimate ways of expression Identifying your child's passionate interests if he appears to have none Why the real autism "epidemic" has nothing to do with young children How those autism ribbons and public awareness cards can send the wrong message Understanding how your child best thinks, learns, and retains information. Ten ways to enrich the relationship with your child through a belief in competenceIn his most candid work to date, Stillman also shatters myths about high-cost therapies and "autism medications"-grist for an industry that promotes a culture of fear about autism. Stillman clears aside the clinical and pathological perceptions of autism to reveal the truth: people with autism are intelligent, insightful and inspired human beings entitled to participate and contribute to the fullest.

Author Biography

William Stillman is a passionate activist, consultant, and author in the field of autism. He has devoted his life to advocating for individuals on the autism spectrum. He can be contacted at www.williamstillman.com.

Table of Contents

Foreword

Acknowledgments

Introduction

Receiving The News

Could It Be Autism?

Healing and Acceptance

Establishing A Healthy And Supportive Relationship With Your Child

Presuming Your Child's Intellect

Supporting and Interpreting Your Child's Communication

Your Child's Acute Sensitivities

Creating Ripple Effects

Understanding and Using Person-First Perspectives

Autism Advocacy and Self-Advocacy

Future Pathways

Appendix: Tools and Resources

Prescription Medication Questionnaire

Pain and Discomfort Inventory

Sensory Sensitivity Inventory

Organization and Specialist Web Sites

Books for Further Reading

Recommended Viewing

About the Author

Index

Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.