Making Sense of Autism :: Education by Design Store

Customer Reviews

An invaluable resource!

2008-06-10
I am a behavior psychologist who does early intensive behavioral intervention (IEBI) with children who have autism spectrum disorders (ASD's) and I have found Dr. Thompson's book to be an invaluable resource. I regularly recommend this book to both professionals and families who care for children with ASD's.

This book is especially helpful for families who have recently received an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and are overwhelmed with absorbing the diagnosis, grieving the loss of their dreams for their child, and facing the pressure of deciding on treatment options. Dr. Thompson thoroughly explores IEBI and describes what family members can and cannot expect from the process. Additionally, he provides a frank discussion of family dynamics that facilitate or impede early intervention as well as problem behaviors that are commonly misinterpreted by family members. Dr. Thompson has the unique ability to present complex research findings in a manner that is clear, concise, and relevant. For example, his discussion of brain dysfunction in autism (Chapter 3) fosters an appreciation of the importance of early intervention and its possible effects on the brain. However; my favorite thing about this book is the table in Chapter 3 that summarizes autism interventions, the evidence for their effectiveness, and their possible effects on the core symptoms of autism. This table along with the final chapter (Cautionary Considerations for Parents and Practitioners) is worth the price of the book alone and I use them together often!

Finally, many of the families to whom I have recommended this book have commented on the depth, empathy, and respect evident in Dr. Thompson's writing. Dr. Thompson displays a deep understanding and appreciation of the emotional issues that arise during the diagnostic process and in choosing among the many treatment options available; and he does this while never losing sight of the facts. This is a very difficult thing for professionals to do when they are focused on their desire to build on a child's strengths in order to maximize his or her potential and to make every minute of skill training count. Dr. Thompson's book is a reminder that although researchers are making great strides in informing us about the causes and treatment of autism, we must never lose sight of the uniqueness of each person with an ASD and each family member supporting and encouraging that person's growth.

Useful book

2008-05-23
Dr. Thompson is a true expert on autism and has put together a book to help people gain a better understanding of the disorder. It is a valuable resource for parents, and for teachers and clinicians who have the responsibility of helping families come to grips with a new diagnosis. I routinely recommend this to families and to professionals who are new to the autism field. Dr. Thompson takes knowledge gained from research, and combines it with his experience as a family member and a clinician to create a readable and useful resource.

Hats Off to Dr. Thompson!

2007-06-17
For anybody on the spectrum and/or has a child who is on the autism/Asperger's (a/A) spectrum, be sure to make this book a very close friend. This is a valuable resource tool.

Dr. Thompson writes in a clear, logical style and his frank approach will be welcomed by all. He discusses the diagnosis; the neuro-biological condition that autism is; drug treatment; early intervention; school and other related developmental conditions. Professionals also will want to make a place on their book shelves for this gem.

Dr. Thompson, himself the grandfather of a child with autism appears to have an excellent understanding of what this condition entails. He is able to see autism from an insider's perspective and I think he is sincere about wanting to help each person on the spectrum live a life of quality and dignity. Dr. Thompson and Dr. Attwood are the top contenders in a/A literature from the professional's point of view. Be sure to read this along with The Complete Guide to Asperger's Syndrome by Dr. Attwood.

Wonderful!

2007-06-01
This is a terrific book! I only wish I would have had the opportunity to read such an insightful, candid and thorough book when our son was diagnosed with autism three years ago. Dr. Thompson has written an easy-to-understand book that flows well and includes sections important to anyone with autism in their life. He explores diagnosis, families, early-intervention, school, pharmacology (this section is facinating!) co-existing and related conditions, etc. From a parent perspective, I like that he shared that his grandson has autism. I believe that he really "gets" what this is like from the inside out, and wants to help kids live the best life possible. I learned a lot, this is very current information, and Dr. Thompson presents it candidly yet thoughtfully. I read a lot of books about autism, and would certainly recommend this as a very worthwhile addition to your "autism collection".