Wendy Ashcroft

This large paperback book begins with a thorough, concise and clear explanation of the characteristics of children with autism spectrum disorder and explains several specific characteristics of how their autism makes social interactions challenging. The authors describe the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis and site studies that recommend its use for the reader’s further study. The book goes on to apply those strategies to teaching 10 social skills and the games and activities that help teach each one. Skills such as talking with others, sharing things with others and asking questions are given step by step instructions on how to accomplish these tasks with autistic children. There is a long list of references for further study to include presentations, journal articles and books.… (més)

The later half of the book was the most useful for educators. Social skill difficulty is identified as problems with communication, understanding others perspective and social cues, anxiety, over focusing, concrete thinking. The authors discuss the use of ABA principles to teach social skills using a self-management chart, naturalistic teaching methods using choices, incidental teaching, joint action, environmental engineering, and cognitive interventions. This book can provide some ideas and structure to the teaching of social skills.… (més)

One of the hardest things a teacher has to do is find ways for students with autism to interact with other students in the class. This book has games and activities that will help engage the autistic child socially. Easy to set up and implement, the games include skills such as: helping with eye contact, cooperation, asking for something politely, looking where others are looking etc. Great ideas that can be used daily. Good book for the beginning teacher, or those new to working with autistic students. Good choice for parents too.… (més)