Product reviews for The Little Book of the Autism Spectrum

This excellent little book, cogently written by Dr. Samantha Todd fills a useful gap in the literature about Autism Spectrum Disorder. The author, a Clinical Psychologist working in Manchester has written a very accessible book which will be appreciated equally by parents and carers as well as by professionals working in Children's Services. The many themes covered in the book will be particularly relevant to those working in schools and early Years settings responsible for autistic children, especially teachers and support staff.

The book is helpfully divided into three sections namely:
1. Understanding The Autism Spectrum
2. Developing Skills and promoting well being in children and young people with Autism.
3. Working with Behaviour

Beginning with the assessment process and covering the many questions facing anxious parents at the time of diagnosis, the author helpfully de-mystifies much of the jargon and the plethora of medical labels which cause confusion for families and also many professionals. 
There follows a thoughtful account of the benefits to society of neuro-diversity and the positive contribution made by people who are thought to be unusual or different.

For me however, the key section is found in chapter four where the author introduces the concept of” the autism lens'', a theme which involves the reader viewing aspects of home and school life specifically from the viewpoint of the youngster with autism. This metaphor is developed throughout the remainder of the book and enables the reader to appreciate the subtle differences which impact the lives of children and young people with autism
The third section of the book focuses on working with aspects of behaviour and will be helpful to everyone attempting to understand, analyse and manage behaviour that is considered challenging in the home and the wider community including educational settings.

The Little Book also contains humorous illustrations of real life situations and key learning points are provided as a helpful summary to each chapter. Furthermore, the glossary and references are useful aides for follow-up. 

Personally I found The Little Book of the Autistic Spectrum a fascinating read and as a practitioner Educational Psychologist I will be recommending it to parent's, school staff and colleagues as I believe it gives illuminating insight and plenty of sound practical advice which will be helpful to those who support children with ASD.