Learners on the Autism Spectrum

<p>This third edition is a foundational text that has been updated and expanded to prepare educators, therapists, and other care providers with vital knowledge and practical skills to support diverse learners on the autism spectrum. Covering an expanse of fundamental topics, this edited volume features new directions in research and practice that are essential to understanding the ever-changing field of autism. Along with new chapters from leading experts (including those who identify as autistic), this revision places greater emphasis on the intersection of neurodevelopmental differences with ethnicity, race, culture, language, gender expression, and socioeconomic experiences. The diverse disciplines and perspectives presented provide a foundation on how these students learn and how best to provide them with effective teaching, therapy, and social supports. This book equips readers with knowledge and skill to competently apply reflective and humanistic practices that prioritize the preferences, strengths, and values of autistic learners from all walks of life.</p> <p>List of Contributors Acknowledgements Introduction <strong>I.</strong> <strong>Foundations of Understanding and Support </strong>1. Re-presenting Autism and Evidence-Based Practice: Tenets of Competent, Humanistic and Meaningful Support 2. Autism Spectrum: An Overview 3. Brain–Behavior Connections in Autism 4. Sensory Processing: Identifying Patterns and Designing Support Strategies 5. Getting a Good Start: Effective Practices in Early Intervention 6. Creating Inclusive Environments for Autistic Learners: Universal Design for Learning 7. Structured Teaching and Environmental Supports 8. Teaching a Different Way of Behaving: Positive Behavior Supports 9. Personal Perspectives and Autistic Authority 10. Finding Our Way: Experiences of an African American Parent and her Autistic Son <strong> II.</strong> <strong>Guiding Learning, Development and Socialization </strong>11.<strong> </strong>Social Communication and Language Development in Autistic Leaners 12. An In-Depth Discussion of Emotion Regulation and Autism 13. Using Interactive Multi-Media Technology to Teach about Emotions 14. Harnessing the Power of Special Interest Areas at Home and School 15. Play, Friendships and Autism: Co-creating a Culture of Inclusion with Peers 16. Social Cognition as a Lens for Understanding, Supporting and Teaching Autistic Learners 17. Transitioning to Adulthood for Secondary Students on the Autism Spectrum 18. Growing up with Autism: Perspectives of a Parent and Son 19. Educational Experiences Across the Lifespan: A Personal Perspective</p>