Playing, Laughing and Learning with Children on the Autism Spectrum

This book shows how to break down activities into manageable stages and looks at ways to gain a child's attention and motivation and to build on small achievements.

Case studies illustrate how problems of ritual and obsession can be used and redirected positively and how to structure play activities and overcome communication barriers by using picture cards.

Each chapter covers a collection of ideas around a theme, including music, art, physical activities, playing outdoors, puzzles, turn-taking and using existing toys to create play sequences. There are also chapters on introducing reading and making the most of television. The ideas are useful both for toddlers and primary age children who are still struggling with play.

Second Edition

Praise for the 1st edition: "An approachable and practical edition that will be welcomed by parents and carers alike. I know how hard it can be to find "How to" resources for parents. Well here is a gem."

Children, Young People and Families

Julia Moor is a sensory art and communication tutor at a day service for adult learners and has worked for 14 years with adults with multiple learning disabilities (including autism). She has a degree in psychology and is a qualified Further Education teacher. Her son Robin was diagnosed with autism at two; he is now a high functioning, bright and sociable eleven-year-old.