Autism, Therapy, and Fun: OT to the Rescue

Autism, Therapy and Fun; OT to the Rescue is a collection of engaging activities that are versatile enough for use with individuals or groups of mixed ages and abilities. It is intended for children with adaptive functioning levels in the two- to five-year-old range. The activities were developed to enhance skills that often challenge children with autism and other special needs including fine motor, visual processing, body awareness/motor planning, sensory processing, self-help, and cognitive skills. Children aged 2 through 17 years with autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorders, feeding concerns, Down syndrome, and speech-language delay have successfully participated in these activities.

Each activity in Autism, Therapy and Fun; OT to the Rescue includes a Leader Guide, Parent Information Handout, and supplemental materials, when appropriate. The Leader Guide provides a list of materials needed, detailed instructions, and helpful hints. The Parent Information Handout explains the rationale, process, and skills emphasized, helping parents be informed members of the team. Supplemental materials such as templates, diagrams, and pictures are also included.

"It is a child's 'job' or 'occupation' to play in order to develop physical coordination, emotional maturity, social skills to interact with other children, and self-confidence to try new experiences and explore new environments" (www.aota.org, 10/4/2009). As pediatric occupational therapists (OT), we use this definition of occupation provided by the American Occupational Therapy Association to guide our practice. OTs infuse play with the opportunity to develop these skills, despite special needs or skill deficits. Children with autism often face overwhelming occupational challenges. "Autism is a developmental disability that affects how the brain functions, and often impairs social skills development and communication. Occupational therapy practitioners work collaboratively with the school team to help students with autism to access, progress, and participate in the curriculum. They help students to achieve success in academic performance and social participation throughout the school day." (www.aota.org, 10/4/2009)

Christina Bell, MA, OTR/L and Angela R. Baker, Ph.D, OTR/L, CTRS are respected pediatric occupational therapists working in schools and other community settings. Both graduated from the University of Southern California, the nation's number one ranked occupational therapy program. Teachers and parents appreciate the new energy and ideas they introduce in their day-to-day treatments. Now, more than eight years into their working relationship, Christina and Angela bring you Autism, Therapy and Fun; OT to the Rescue. This is the second book in a series that includes Autism and DD at School; OT to the Rescue.