Asperger Syndrome and Autism

Speak, Move, Play and Learn with Children on the Autism Spectrum
by Lois Jean Brady, America X Gonzalez,
Maciej Zawadzki & Corinda Presley
(Jessica Kingsley Publishers)
Written by a team of two language experts and two occupational therapists, this is a great book to dip into for fresh ideas, or new possibilities for activities when working with children with Autism. It gives helpful and succinct explanations of what the book is about and how it can be used to support communication, co-ordination and sensory integration skills. It highlights why these skills are so important in order to promote independence and confidence to enable children with Autism to develop necessary and essential life skills.
    It is a book that speaks with an enthusiastic voice and encourages readers to be motivated to try new ideas. There is something for everyone involved in caring for and teaching children with Autism. Practical ideas are offered that are fun and engaging including chapters on cooking, one focusing on sensory engagement, another with a musical focus Useful suggestions are given with each activity to match different needs and abilities. The resources recommended are easily available. The book provides a handy bank of ideas and activities with the purpose of each activity made clear with easy to follow directions.
    Definitely a book to have at hand when planning activities in school or at home.
(reviewed by Pat Winson and Jill Bennett)
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Asperger Syndrome, the Universe and Everything
by Kenneth Hall
(Jessica Kingsley)
If you've ever wondered what goes on in the mind of someone with Asperger Syndrome, you'll love this book because it's written by a 10 year old boy who has Asperger's himself. Kenneth gives a valuable insight into how he feels and the reasons for some of his behaviour. For instance, at one time he shook his head a great deal because he hated his hair touching his forehead so having his hair cut very short removed both the problem and the behaviour. He also describes some of the techniques which have helped him, including Applied Behaviour Analysis, and I found one of his most telling comments was "Kids who are different should not have to do things which are pointless just to be the same as other kids."
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You may also be interested in the following children's novel.

Blue Bottle Mystery
by Kathy Hoopman
(Jessica Kingsley)
When Ben and his friend, Andy, find an old blue bottle in the school grounds, life starts to change in mysterious ways. The resulting story is exciting enough to keep you turning the pages and so well written that it helps you understand what it feels like to have Asperger Syndrome like Ben. The subject matter and the clear, well-spaced print could prove particularly popular with children with special needs.
Ages 8 up
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