Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum. A Parent's Guide to the Cognitive, Social, Physical, and Transition Needs ofTeenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Customer Reviews

Fills in a lot of gaps

2007-07-30
My son is too old for "early intervention" and is definitely on the high functioning end of the continuum, which has made it difficult at time to find resources. So many books (and programs) are geared toward early intervention - which is fantastic - but we're past that point. A good percentage of the rest are geared towards kids not as lucky as mine who face much greater challenges and limitations.

This book deals with issues across the spectrum and functional level continuum specifically in relation with the issues and challenges adolescence poses for both kids and the adults in their lives. It is readable - the language is comfortable, the tone is positive and motivational, the ideas and suggestions are, for the most part, accessible to most people. Maybe a little too much emphasis of self-sacrifice, but that is offset by the chapters on balancing the needs of the family, couple and neurotypical siblings with the affected child.

Recommended highly for parents charting the rapids of adolescence in the lop-sided ASD rowboat.

Craving Information on Adolescents on the Spectrum?

2007-05-26
Wow, finally some brave soul has ventured into the never, never land of discussion on this thorny topic - adolescents on the autism spectrum. I am a parent of a child with ASD and a Speech Language Pathologist working with adolescents on the spectrum. Ms. Sicile-Kira has a good start delving into the topic. Like most information I find on ASD these days, it is pitched towards individuals who are very high functioning. That leaves many of us in the dark about the dilemmas our less functional children may face. She touches on some weighty subjects like sex, drugs, and college (forgot the rock and roll!). She does a nice job explaining options for kids who have that many options ahead of them. We are still awaiting information for kids who pass through puberty and do not gain many of the skills Ms. Sicile-Kira discusses. I believe it will be a helpful start for many families and professionals, however, I still think it is time to take my pen in hand and talk about some of the more nitty gritty aspects of parenting more affected kids.

A Treasure trove for Parents of Autistic youngsters

2007-04-10
Chantal Sicile-Kira wrote the definitive guide to the Needs of Autistic teenagers. Parents, this treasure trove of thought and action provoking material is a must have to help your youngster grow into an adult you can be proud of.

Detailed and helpful for parents

2006-08-22
As a school system employee, I have worked with many students in the past years that fall on the Autism Spectrum. Recent research indicates that 1 in 166 people fall somewhere on the autism spectrum. Such children can be extremely challenging for parents, but parents with the right information can be empowered to help their child improve. This book is an excellent and detailed resource for many of the issues parents face in raising a child on the Autism spectrum. The book begins with a great description of Autism, and is especially useful for parents who are reading their first book on autism. The book moves into more inspirational mode, and discusses the importance of acceptance and a positive attitude in the face of adversity. The book continues with information and strategies on how to cope at the family level (e.g. non-disabled peers relationship with an autistic peer and the challenges for married couples). It also discusses strategies to talk to teens about puberty, the birds and the bees, and proper hygiene. A strength of the book is the detail it goes into. For example, the author discusses strategies in dealing with teens who have sensory issues and don't want to comb their hair, etc... The book also supplies valuable information about transition to high-school and beyond, and future employment. It also educates parents about special education law. I would recommend this book as a great resource for parents of children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Helpful stuff

2006-07-24
"Chantal Sicile-Kira has written a book for parents that does not steer them down an agenda-filled path. She has instead selflessly provided readers with their fullest possible options towards the care of their autistic adolescents. Furthermore, she backs her writing up with testimony from many of the world's most notable people diagnosed along the spectrum. A thorough effort. Parents would be well-served to purchase this book."

The Fuel to Keep Going

2006-04-29
From the award-winning author of Autism Spectrum Disorders, comes Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum, a complete guide to the cognitive, emotional, social, and physical needs of preteens and teenagers with autistic disorders, ranging from the relatively mild Asperger's Syndrome to more severe ability impairment. Using clear examples, practical advice, and supportive insights, this book covers:

- Health risks such as seizures and depression
- Treatments, therapies, and teaching strategies
- Teaching skills to cope with puberty, self-care, and social skills
- Teenage emotions, sexuality, appropriate relationships, and dating
- Middle school, high school, and developing an Individual Educational Program
- Preparing for life after high school

A must for ASD teens and their families

2006-04-28
This book is a wonderful follow-up to Sicile-Kira's invaluable "Autism Spectrum Disorders." The adolescent years bring new bumps in the road for ASD kids and their families. This well researched and articulated guide helps ASD families anticipate and navigate these challenges. Sicile-Kira offers thorough, thoughtful, and balanced suggestions. As a high school administrator and a member of a university autism research study team, I highly recommend "Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum."