On the Up Side: Hope for Parents...Success for the Child with Autism

On the UpSide: Hope for Parents...Success for the Child with Autism, written by Mark and Rebecca Knowlden, is a reader-friendly and highly supportive book for the two million American families living with an autistic child. Calling upon more than two decades of experience with their autistic son, Ty, the Knowldens share the ups and downs and ins and outs of developing the full potential of a child with autism. The book explores the myriad psychological, social, and educational needs associated with autism and provides productive ideas for communicating with others and navigating the world of specialists, therapies and family dynamics. Following Ty's growth and his obstacles from infancy through adulthood, readers will find important information and heartfelt guidance delivered through the Knowldens' personal and endearing recollections. Inspiring others on every page, readers will benefit from the many tools and guidelines developed by the authors, including a set of core principles that can help guide the development of the autistic child and the growth of the entire family. With helpful and insightful information on how a family gets through the tough times, the focus never shifts: it is always about maximizing the child's potential and maintaining the wellbeing of the family. The Knowldens remind parents that an autistic child is not a burden, that each member of the family can grow and succeed, and that we all have a special role to play in helping the child with autism become the person they are meant to be. Featuring chapters written by Ty's sisters and Ty himself, each family member's contribution to On the Up Side weaves a common thread: the rewards for taking on this challenge are well worth the effort.