16 December 2011

CeDIR Holiday Closing



Happy Hanukkah! Merry Christmas! Happy Kwanzaa! Happy New Year! These holidays and more are celebrated at this time each year, giving us the chance to sit back and reflect on the past year and prepare for the new year.

After today, CeDIR will be closed for the next two weeks in observance of the holiday season. We will re-open at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 3, 2012.

Happy Holidays!

12 December 2011

Mobile App Monday -- QuestionIt


Looking for an app to help a child with autism or other language disorder with WH questions? QuestionIt might be for you. Activities include sorting words by type of question they answer, answering questions about sentences, and answering questions about paragraphs. Fireworks reinforce consecutive correct answers.

Want to learn more? Visit: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/questionit/id458737797?mt=8

08 December 2011

Literacy Skills



Looking to ramp up your child's literacy skills? The folks at the Indiana Resource Center for Autism have put together a listing of books, curriculums and programs, websites, software and iPad applications that can be used to promote literacy among children on the autism spectrum. Both parents and teachers will find interesting products listed that can help them help their children on the spectrum increase their literacy skills.

Please visit: http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/index.php?pageId=3467

06 December 2011

Developmental Drama



Looking for a way to help a child with severe or profound multiple disabilities (PMLD) connect with the world around them? Unsure where to begin? Developmental drama: dramatherapy approaches for people with profound or severe multiple disabilities, including sensory impairment shows how drama can help kids develop their communication skills, learn to deal with emotions more effectively and gain a greater understanding of their physical and social environment. Using drama as a medium for assisting the social and emotional development of people with PMLD, including sensory impairment, this book offers proven techniques in working with kids and also suggests ways to include support staff effectively within the process.

Interested? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check out this book, or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

05 December 2011

Mobile App Monday -- Communication Skills



Oftentimes, people on the spectrum need help with their communication skills. This app is designed to teach and reinforce basic social skills critical for independent living. For some, going on a shopping trip, using basic literacy skills, or understanding what to do when seeing a warning sign are very difficult tasks. The Communication Skills application provides easy-to-understand information that allows users to become more capable of functioning independently at work, at home, and in the community.

To learn more about this app, visit: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/communication-skills/id375400807?mt=8

29 November 2011

Classroom Pivotal Response Teaching for Children with Autism



Focusing on the core (or pivotal) responses students need to be functional communicators, Classroom pivotal response teaching for children with autism offers suggestions on teaching motivation, responsiveness to multiple cues from teachers, self-management, and more. This book has an accompanying DVD which includes narrated PowerPoint presentations with video examples of CPRT in action, along with more than two dozen reproducible worksheets and forms.

Check out this title by emailing us at cedir@indiana.edu or using worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

28 November 2011

Mobile App Monday -- Stories2Learn



Looking for an easy way to create social stories for kids? Stories2Learn is a mobile app that can quickly create social stories showing various social cues. Users can easily build their own stories by adding pictures, audio, and text. It can also be used to create visual schedules for children who need extra help with organizing their time.

Stories2Learn comes preloaded with one story demonstrating the skills necessary to play a game with a friend. For more information, go to:http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/stories2learn/id348576875?mt=8#

23 November 2011

STACKING THE DECK FOR FAMILY HOLIDAYS




By Dan Coulter

     It’s family holiday gatherings season.

     So, do you feel anticipation or anxiety?

     If you have a child with an autism spectrum disorder, you might feel a bit of both.

     My wife and I are veterans of years of extended family gatherings with our son who has Asperger Syndrome.  We’ve learned that the proper preparation is a great insurance policy toward making the gathering a positive experience for everyone.

     First, size up the situation realistically.  What will your family event be like?  How is your son or daughter with an ASD likely to react in that environment?  What can you do to influence the environment and prepare your child?

     Let’s say you have a son named Bill who has Asperger Syndrome.

     If you’re going to be seeing family who doesn’t often interact with Bill, consider writing a letter or email to those who will attend. Tell them you want to help ensure that everyone has a good time, so you want to explain that, because Bill has Asperger Syndrome, he may act or react a bit differently than they’re used to.

     The letter should be positive.  It should not tell people how they have to act to accommodate Bill.  It should focus on the nice experience everyone can have if family members make some adjustments to help Bill fit in.

     For example, Bill loves studying weather, has learned a lot about weather, and is always eager to talk about weather.  You can write that it would be great if you could work with the others who will attend the gathering to plan some games or activities or decorations that relate to weather.  And explain that if Bill goes on a bit too long about weather, it’s O.K. to say, "I’m really impressed with all you know about weather, Bill, but I’m not as interested in it as you are, and I’d like to talk about something else now."

     The key is to help others understand how Bill is likely to act and react, and give them suggestions on interacting with Bill that will help keep things positive.  If Bill is likely to exhibit behaviors that could be interpreted as rude or tactless, explain that he doesn’t mean to offend, it’s just the way his brain processes information.  Be honest, but upbeat.  Ask parents to share appropriate information about being patient with Bill with their children.

     Consider past experience to determine how closely you, or someone else who knows what to expect, needs to supervise Bill in this environment.  You may need to limit your stay or identify a quiet place where Bill can be by himself with a book or a game or a DVD if the situation becomes overwhelming for him.

     In your letter, you can also inquire about the other children who will attend and ask if there’s anything special the group might plan or do for them.  After all, you want the visit to be special for everyone.

     Finally, talk with Bill about what to expect and help him practice the social skills you want him to use.  The more Bill knows about the gathering in advance and how to deal with it, the more confident and comfortable he’s likely to be.

     You might choose to write a social story describing the upcoming event.  My wife once wrote a "news story" about our niece’s wedding and read it to our son in the car as we traveled to another state for the ceremony.  Consider your child’s history as you plan your briefing.  You may decide to provide less detail if your child is very literal minded and gets upset when things don’t turn out exactly the way he or she expects they will.

     A lot of families (ours included) have attended events simply hoping for the best.  But we’ve learned that hope is more realistic if you stack the deck.  Where extended family gatherings are concerned, you may need to mark it, stack it, and stick a few cards up your sleeve.

     But everybody wins.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Dan Coulter is the producer of the DVD: "MANNERS FOR THE REAL WORLD: Basic Social Skills," which has just been revised and re-released with English and Spanish subtitles.  You'll find more articles and information on his website at: www.coultervideo.com.

Copyright 2008    Dan Coulter      All Rights Reserved.     Used by Permission.

22 November 2011

Social Literacy



Looking for a social skills curriculum for high-functioning young adults? Social Literacy: A Social Skills Seminars for Young Adults With ASDs, NLDs, and Social Anxiety may fit the bill. This field-tested, hands-on seminar can help participants build their social skills using explicit instruction and coaching. Going beyond the basics to the higher level social skills, the seminar can adapt to any program's needs by targeting the areas most critical to an adult's success--skills for employment, relationships, and more.

Find out more by emailing us at cedir@indiana.edu, or using worldcat.org to find this title in a library near you.

21 November 2011

Mobile App Monday -- Smart Chart


Track, reward, and reinforce positive behavior with Smart Chart. This app lets teachers and parents to teach goal setting skills, a particularly important set of skills! Some of its features include the ability to:

-Add unlimited profiles
-Import photos using the camera or from the library
-Add tasks and goals to profiles
-Create custom tasks or select from the library
-Create custom rewards or select from the library
-And more!

To learn more about this app, visit: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id414155585?mt=8

18 November 2011

Social Communication Cues for Young Children with Autism


Social communication cues for young children with autism spectrum disorders and related conditions: How to give great greetings, pay cool compliments and have fun with friends is a book for parents and professionals of young children ages 2 and up that can help them teach their children effective communication skills. The book is a collection of social communication cues, each section beginning with the social rule. Reasons why the child may be experiencing difficulties are explained and communication prompts and ideas for practice are shared.

Check out this resource by emailing us at cedir@indiana.edu or by using worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

17 November 2011

Jumpstarting Communication Skills



Want to know more about Applied Verbal Behavior (AVB)? Jumpstarting communication skills in children with autism: A parents' guide to Applied Verbal Behavior is packed with case studies that will help parents understand how AVB can be used in a wide variety of communication issues. From difficulty making requests to a lack of fluency in conversations and more, this book covers it. It explains the AVB method (and others) and how it can boost a child's understanding of verbal and nonverbal communication, offering a greater chance for success in expressive abilities and all areas of learning and socialization.

Interested? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check out this title, or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

16 November 2011

The Ziggurat Model



This edition of The Ziggurat model: A framework for designing comprehensive interventions for high-functioning individuals with autism spectrum disorders is a revision of the 2nd edition released in 2008. This edition contains updated references, prevalence rates and an expansion of forms and case studies to include early childhood. The book also offers a special section on how to integrate the Ziggurat Model with The Comprehensive Autism Planning System.

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

15 November 2011

Bright Not Broken


Got a "twice-exceptional" kid--one who is gifted but also has a disability? Looking to help them reach their full potential? Bright not broken: Gifted kids, ADHD, and autism may be the answer for you. Given the disability that is associated with these kids, teachers and parents can overlook the gifted aspect and focus on the disability. The authors offer this book as a wake-up call and examine the misdiagnoses and controversies surrounding the current diagnostic system. They discuss a whole child model to help children develop their gifts while supporting their disabilities.

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu, or use worldcat.org or Evergreen to find it in a library near you.

11 November 2011

Individualized autism intervention for young children



Individualized autism intervention for young children: Blending discrete trial & naturalistic strategies comes out of author Travis Thompson's frustration with parents and professionals who always used one strategy over the other. Thompson's book blends the two strategies creating interventions that are evidence-based, largely behavioral but also incorporate developmental strategies as well. The final four chapters of the book each look at a single child using these blended strategies--their plans, implementation, and results. Parent commentary ends each of the chapters.

Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check out this title, or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

10 November 2011

Developing Leisure Time Skills for Persons with Autism


Need help developing kids' leisure time skills? Developing leisure time skills for persons with autism: Structured playtime activities with valuable support strategies for adults can help. Unstructured playtime can cause anxiety and fear among kids on the spectrum. This book offers structured strategies to help adults introduce meaningful activities to kids. The book is split into two sections: the first provides forms and charts to help adults assess the child’s sensory needs, select age-appropriate activities, and then determine level of interest in specific activities. The second section offers “Activity Cards" for going to the park, playing games, listening to music, and more.

Interested? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check out this title, or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

09 November 2011

Facing your fears



Facing your fears: Group therapy for managing anxiety in children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders comes as a packet of three books: a facilitator's manual, a parent workbook, and a child workbook. The three together form the basis for a cognitive-behavioral group therapy approach to help reduce fears and anxieties for children on the high-functioning end of the spectrum. Research cited in the programs indicates that high anxiety can lead to "serious educational problems, later underemployment, substance abuse, and other psychiatric conditions." Learning to manage fear and anxiety as a child offers hope for a better future.

To check out this title, email us at cedir@indiana.edu, or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

08 November 2011

Loving the Tasmanian Devil



Looking for a love story? Try Loving the Tasmanian Devil: Reflections on Marriage and Asperger Syndrome. One reviewer calls it, "one of the best love stories I have ever read..." The author, whose husband has AS, writes of the roller coaster ride that an Asperger Syndrome-NeuroTypical marriage can be. Written with humor, frustration, and compassion, this story will appeal to those on a similar path and those who are not.

Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check out this title, or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

07 November 2011

Mobile App Monday -- Autism Apps for Android



Got an Android instead of an iPhone? As the the number Android users grows, the number of autism-related apps available for the Droid should grow. To date, there are literally hundreds of autism apps for Apple products but under 100 apps for Android. Finding those particular apps can be quite challenging, too. But thanks to the folks at iAutism, a list has been created to allow users to browse those apps identified for use with people on the spectrum. To see the list in its entirety, visit: http://www.iautism.info/en/2011/03/25/list-of-apps-for-android/

03 November 2011

60 Social Situations and Discussion Starters



Got a teen on the spectrum who needs a little extra help in social situations? 60 Social Situations and Discussion Starters to Help Teens on the Autism Spectrum Deal with Friendships, Feelings, Conflict and More: Seeing in the Big Picture is written for both teens and parents. 60 different social scenarios are presented in the form of a story such as sarcasm, the use of idioms, and body language. Each story is followed up by leading questions such as "how do you think she felt?" "why do you think they were upset?" to help teens begin to understand and empathize.

Check out this title by emailing us at cedir@indiana.edu, or you can use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

28 October 2011

New Release of The Ziggurat Model


The widely popular Ziggurat Model has been updated and expanded with the latest research and a new version of the Underlying Characteristics Checklist for Early Intervention (UCC-EI). This release actually includes all three versions of the UCC-EI: High-Functioning, Classic, and Early Childhood. The book is backed by research involving a comprehensive case study. Reviewers agree that it is well-researched and comprehensive yet accessible for both parents and professionals alike.

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu.

26 October 2011

Big Picture Thinking


Oftentimes students who have difficulties with social cognition, including those on the autism spectrum, are not able to see the big picture of a situation. Big picture thinking: Using central coherence theory to support social skills: A book for students was written to help students with cognitive differences see how individual pieces of social information fit into a larger context. Understanding the big picture can help students be more successful in social situations.

Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check out this title. Or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

25 October 2011

A picture's worth...


Now in its second edition, A picture's worth: PECS and other visual communication strategies in autism is available to be checked out. It contains a complete set of introductory lessons for parents and therapists to get started helping people develop their communication skills.

Concerned about a child's potential to develop speaking skills when using AAC methods? This new edition cites research that PECS and other AAC strategies do not interfere with this development and can actually enhance it! This edition of the book also contains more information on:

-Deciding whether a child needs AAC and could benefit from PECS
-Who is an appropriate candidate for PECS
-Error correction strategies during the initial stages of PECS
-How to choose challenging behaviors to try to eliminate
-What to do when a child does not look at pictures

Want to check it out? Send us an email at cedir@indiana.edu. Or use worldcat.org to find the book in a library near you.

24 October 2011

Mobile App Monday -- Locabulary


Developed from the concept that everyone should have a voice, Locabulary is a groundbreaking communication app designed for users of all types for the iPhone and iPod Touch. The intuitive interface uses the iPhone to communicate words, phrases, and sentences. Locabulary can be used for fun, everyday correspondence, teaching, or as a vital communication device for individuals who have difficulty speaking due to autism, brain injury, stroke, laryngeal cancer, or other conditions that affect speech.

To learn more, visit: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/locabulary-lite/id322448547?mt=8

20 October 2011

Fall Break


CeDIR will be closed Friday, October 21st
we will reopen at 8 a.m. on
Monday, October 24th


12 October 2011

CeDIR Citings -- Focus on Nutrition


The latest issue of CeDIR's newsletter, CeDIR Citings, has been released, and its focus is on nutrition. With Fall coming on, our thoughts turn to comfort foods, and this issue is packed with resources. Whether it's library books or websites on nutrition or information on the difference between food allergies and intolerances, you'll find it in this issue.

To read this latest issue of the newsletter, visit: http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/cedir/newsletters/CeDIR_Citings_1011.html

To see a list of past issues, visit: http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/index.php?pageId=2316

10 October 2011

Mobile App Monday -- Autism Apps


Wondering which apps are being used by and with people with Autism? Autism Apps is a free app that is listing of just that. Created as resource for apps to use with folks on the spectrum, Down Syndrome, and other special needs, the apps are broken out into 30 separate categories for easy browsing. They also have searchable descriptions to make browsing and purchasing apps easier.

Want to know more? Visit: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/autism-apps/id441600681?mt=8

07 October 2011

Handbook of ABA


Looking for detailed information about the theory, research, and intervention of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)? The Handbook of applied behavior analysis describes the state of the science of ABA from contributors who are leading ABA authorities. The book presents current best practices in behavioral assessment and demonstrates evidence-based strategies for supporting positive behaviors and reducing problem behaviors.

Want to know more? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check out this title. Or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

06 October 2011

Autism webinars


Looking for webinars to attend on different facets of working with people on the spectrum? Check out Autism NOW's site. They have webinars available on topics such as employment, post-secondary education, and more. Can't find what you want? Check out their archives for webinars already presented--two each week for the entire year.

Visit: http://autismnow.org/about-us/what-we-do/webinars/webinar-schedule/

04 October 2011

Oral Care for Kids on the Spectrum


The National Museum of Dentistry has created a new resource called Healthy Smiles for Autism to empower parents of children with autism spectrum disorder to establish a healthy oral hygiene routine and prepare their children for a visit to the dentist. Using step-by-step instruction, this guide helps parents teach their children on the spectrum how to properly brush and floss their teeth to maintain good oral hygiene. Visual sequencing cards and rewards systems are also offered to help children enjoy a productive visit to the dentist.

To learn more about this resource, visit: http://www.healthysmilesforautism.org/

03 October 2011

Mobile App Monday -- Splatter HD


Looking for a fun app for someone with sensory issues? Check out Splatter HD for iPad. This free app lets you splatter paint on your iPad! You can choose your own colors to work with and, if you don't like the colors offered, you can turn the iPad and a different palette of colors is presented.

See the preview by visiting: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/splatter-hd/id364895254?mt=8

28 September 2011

My friend with autism


Looking for a young children's book on autism awareness? My friend with autism has a new enhanced edition with an included CD of pages to color. From the perspective of a peer, this book addresses such issues as:
  • Sensory Sensitivity
  • Communication Differences
  • Unique Ways of Playing
  • Insistence on Routine
  • And more!
Parent's notes can be found at the back of the book with explanations and facts to supplement the text.

Want to know more? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check out this title. Or try worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

27 September 2011

Student Autism and Asperger Syndrome


Student Autism and Asperger Syndrome is a 24-minute DVD that shows characteristics and frequency of autism and Asperger’s; how autism affects students’ abilities to communicate and interact; communication strategies that work; diffusing potentially tense situations; and basic guidelines to help school staff and safety officers understand this “hidden” disability.

Email us to check out this title at cedir@indiana.edu.

26 September 2011

Mobile App Monday -- TapSpeak



From the creators:

"TapSpeak Button modernizes the idea of a mechanical switch that records and plays messages. We have taken the idea and extended it to provide a portable, convenient, and stigma-free tool to use for basic teaching and communication tasks. TapSpeak Button is especially useful for teaching cause and effect relationships."

For more on TapSpeak Button, visit: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/tapspeak-button/id359998293?mt=8

22 September 2011

Asperger's Syndrome Workplace Survival Guide


This unique guide explains what it takes to succeed in a workplace dominated by neurotypicals. The Asperger’s Syndrome Workplace Survival Guide covers everything from choosing the right career to deciding whether disclosure is the right option. It features realistic strategies for meeting employer expectations and effectively resolving problems.

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu. Or use worldcat.org to find this title in a library near you.

21 September 2011

Managing anxiety



Anxiety can often play a large role in the lives of people on the spectrum. Managing anxiety in people with autism: A treatment guide for parents, teachers, and mental health professionals addresses this problem with thoughtful and practical treatment approaches. With clear explanations and multiple examples, readers will learn about ways to reduce anxiety by first understanding what is causing it and then modifying the triggers. The book also explains how anxiety can affect the whole family and suggests different treatment options to reduce anxiety in everyone.

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu. Or try worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

19 September 2011

Mobile App Monday -- AutismTrack



Looking for an app to track behaviors, interventions, etc., for those on the spectrum? A powerful journaling tool, AutismTrack can be used by several professionals tracking one person. This app is server-based, and data can be recovered if your device is lost or not performing.

Want to learn more about this app? Visit http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/autismtrack/id391660393?mt=8.

16 September 2011

Raising a child with autism


Feeling a bit overwhelmed with the idea of raising a child on the spectrum? What I wish I'd known about raising a child with autism: A mom and a psychologist offer heartfelt guidance for the first five years may be able to help. With support on subjects such as picky eating, bedtime battles, toilet training, speech delays, discipline, and more, this book provides a wealth of "been there, done that" in an insightful and entertaining style.

Check out this title by emailing us at cedir@indiana.edu. Or try using worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

13 September 2011

Developing Leisure Time Skills


Looking for some advice on structuring playtime for kids with autism? Now in its second edition, Developing leisure time skill for persons with autism: Structured playtime activities with valuable support strategies for adults may be just what you need. Forms and charts at the beginning of the book help you assess each child's sensory needs so that you can provide meaningful activities to kids on the spectrum. The rest of the book offers "activity cards" with suggestions such as going to the park, playing games, listening to music, etc.

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

12 September 2011

Mobile App Monday -- Proloquo2go



Proloquo2Go, from AssistiveWare, provides a full-featured communication system for people who have difficulty speaking. With the ability to move from adult male or female to boy or girl voices, Proloquo2Go has everyone covered. Not only is it useful for people with developmental disabilities, those with acquired disabilities or even hospital or rehabilitation settings will find it helpful.

Want more information on Proloquo2Go? Check out their website at: http://www.proloquo2go.com/

09 September 2011

Russell's World


Russell's world: A story for kids about autism is a wonderful book for kids to learn what having an autism spectrum disorder can look like. Kids on the spectrum can vary widely in their own abilities, but Russell is on the severe end of the spectrum. With love and patience that really shine through, Russell's father, the author of the book, paints a picture of Russell and his family. It's a story of acceptance and nurturing that will win your heart, and the use of pictures along with illustrations will keep even the younger kids' interest. An extensive Note to Parents at the end also provides resources and support.

Check it out by sending us an email at cedir@indiana.edu. Or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

08 September 2011

Social Skills Training



Looking for a research-based guide on social skills training in schools or clinical settings? The book Social skills training for children with Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism has a wealth of tools and strategies for implementing just such a training. Common social difficulties are confronted with case examples, the impact of these difficulties on peer relationships, school performance, and behavior. The book also includes many forms and worksheets that can be downloaded and printed.

Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu. Or try worldcat.org to find the book in a library near you.

30 August 2011

The Child with Autism Learns about Faith

Looking for a text to help your child with autism learn about Christianity and faith? Check out The child with autism learns about faith: 15 ready-to-use scripture lessons, from the Garden of Eden to the parting of the Red Sea. Author Kathy Labosh has put together practical tips for congregations to help include children in the faith community. This book has:
  • Step-by-step lesson plans
  • Scripted narratives
  • Group activities
  • Prayers
  • Scripture readings
  • Classroom setup guidance
  • Lists of additional resources
  • And more!
Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu. Or try worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

29 August 2011

Asperger's, Autism & Girls

Describing the unique challenges of women and girls with autism and Asperger's syndrome is Dr. Tony Attwood's focus in his new offering, Asperger's, autism & girls. Practical solutions for school systems, social challenges for the girls on the spectrum themselves, as well as other issues such as puberty, transitions, and careers are all covered in Dr. Attwood's hour and a half presentation.

Check it out by emailing us at cedir@indiana.edu, or check worldcat.org to find this title in a library near you.

26 August 2011

IRCA Reporter

The Indiana Resource Center for Autism has released its latest edition of the IRCA Reporter, its electronic newsletter that its delivered via listserv. To sign up and receive the IRCA Reporter, enter your email address on the following page: http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/index.php?pageId=3314 This latest edition of the newsletter focuses on upcoming workshops presented by IRCA and also offers the fall schedule of the Parent Group Meetings.

24 August 2011

Teaching Adolescents with Autism


Teaching adolescents with autism: Practical strategies for the inclusive classroom, written by an award-winning educator, offers insight into handling behaviors in older kids on the spectrum, implementing interventions in the classroom, and even differentiating instruction. Practical strategies and research-based practices for educating students with autism in inclusive settings makes the book itself all-inclusive.

Email us at cedir@indiana.edu to check it out. Or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

23 August 2011

Sensory Issues in Learning & Behavior

Carol Kranowitz offers a full 3 hour presentation is the video Sensory issues in learning & behavior. Learn more about research in sensory processing disorders, techniques to use with different sensory issues, and possible co-existing problems (e.g., visual, auditory, eating, sleeping, and emotional difficulties).

Check out this title by emailing us at cedir@indiana.edu, or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

22 August 2011

Mobile App Monday - ABA Receptive Identification


Today on Mobile App Monday, we'll take a look at an app that helps children on the spectrum with identification of items by way of their "class."

According to the app's description, "many children with emerging language skills do not think of things as having parts, attributes or fitting into categories but these are necessary for developing appropriate, functional conversation skills. Once a child can ask for, label and receptively identify a great many items, it’s a good time to start teaching the FFC’s or rather features, function and class of items, people and places. These lessons teach a child to talk about things rather than just labeling them."

11 August 2011

Autism: Coming of Age

Autism: Coming of Age – Airs on WTIU on 8/14 and 8/19


This documentary which was produced by public television station WGBY (Springfield, MA) and sponsored by MassMutual to help raise awareness of the challenges faced by

individuals with autism and their families. The program airs on Sunday, August 14 at 2pm and Friday, August 19 at 1pm on WTIU 30.1.

Additional Information:

A YouTube trailer can be found at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYi6v20fNmc

The programs website is http://www.massmutual.com/planningtools/additional-resources/special-needs/special-care/autism-coming-of-age

Information on this program can be found at WTIU website. You can also follow WTIU on Facebook and Twitter

03 August 2011

The IEP from A to Z



Reviewed by our own Dr. Cathy Pratt, the book The IEP from A to A: How to create meaningful and measurable goals and objectives is great for use with all kids with disabilities, but especially with children with ASD. The book is written in a clear, understandable manner that both teachers and parents, even those new to IEPs, can appreciate. Some of the areas covered in depth are:
  • Knowledge of ASD and its affects build appropriate IEP development
  • Components of an IEP and their relationships to each other
  • Why it is important to specify underlying conditions clearly
  • The relationship between clearly written objectives and appropriate methodology
  • And more!
Want to check it out? Email us at cedir@indiana.edu. Or use worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.

02 August 2011

One of Us: A Family's Life with Autism


Know a family who lives with severe autism? Check out One of us: A family's life with autism. This is a dad's story about life with a child with severe autism and learning disabilities. The book follows the family's progress from uncertainty to denial to acceptance.

Temple Grandin calls the book, "A brave dad's honest diary of raising a son with severe autism who has difficulty learning basic skills. It should be read by psychologists, family therapists, and others who are helping families to cope."

To check out this title from CeDIR, email us at cedir@indiana.edu. Or try using worldcat.org to find it in a library near you.