Publisher's Synopsis
Time is a valuable thing. And so is perspective.This book cleverly combines both by offering a wealth of practical information presented as a case study narrative of one individual with autism, giving the uniquely broad perspective of toddler years, early development and diagnosis, preschool, thirteen years of public school, five years of college, employment and finally independence - all in one complete account - focusing on the most relevant academic, language and daily practical learning challenges at each stage relating to autistic thinking and behaviors unique to individuals with autism.Although compiled and written by a parent, Julie Conner purposefully goes beyond her own personal notes and observations to include participating psychologists, special educators, speech therapists, teachers and aide's comments and feedback, evaluations and reports, as well as, their effective strategies and plans with results and detailed explanations and reactions, while still offering glimpses of her heart along the way.This is one story without cure, cause or controversy - no expensive therapies, no medications, no special diets - but no less full of timeless strategies and detailed examples of aha moments and unique insights, revealing how autistic thinking can affect even the smallest of actions and reactions. A child's behavior holds the clues guiding us forward, if we will just slow down and take the time to see them, trusting our instincts and common sense - learning new lessons from each day to better understand the next.Professionals and parents alike will gain a deeper understanding and perspective of autistic thinking, given the ability to view 27 years of one individual's progress. Not only does it show the natural evolution of learning and maturing with autism, but more importantly, it gives a hopeful picture of what tomorrow can look like - because it's never too late to learn.
