A Parent's Guide to Asperger Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism: How to Meet the Challenges and Help Your Child Thrive

Asperger Syndrome and high-functioning autism are detected earlier and more accurately today than ever before. Children and teens with these disorders often stand out for their precocious intelligence and language abilities--yet profound social difficulties can limit every aspect of their lives. This hopeful, compassionate guide shows parents how to work with their child's unique impairments and capabilities to help him or her learn to engage more fully with the world and live as self-sufficiently as possible. From leading experts in the field, the book is packed with practical ideas for helping children relate more comfortably to peers, learn the rules of appropriate behavior, and participate more fully in school and family life. It also explains what scientists currently know about autistic spectrum disorders and how they are diagnosed and treated. Real-life success stories, problem-solving ideas, and matter-of-fact advice on everything from educational placements to career planning make this an indispensable reference that families will turn to again and again.
 

Sally Ozonoff, PhD, is an Associate Professor at the M.I.N.D. Institute, a national center for the study and treatment of autism spectrum disorders based at the University of California, Davis. She is widely known for her research, teaching, and clinical expertise in the areas of Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism. Previously, she was Associate Professor of Psychology and Psychiatry and co-Director of the Autism Specialty Clinic at the University of Utah.

Geraldine Dawson, PhD, is Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the Duke Center for Autism Diagnosis and Treatment at Duke University. She served as Founding Director of the University of Washington Autism Center. An internationally recognized autism expert with a focus on early detection, intervention, and brain plasticity in autism, Dr. Dawson is a passionate advocate for families. She is coauthor of An Early Start for Your Child with Autism and A Parent's Guide to Asperger Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism.

James McPartland is a doctoral candidate in child clinical psychology at the University of Washington.