« With a unique focus on Canada-wide practices and research, this text offers a comprehensive introduction to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Covering the clinical, educational, and community perspectives of ASD, the authors highlight how educators, direct support professionals, and communities at large can support people with ASD across their lifespan: from early years, to school years, to adulthood. Additionally, the authors emphasize the emerging nature of the field and the importance of evidence based interventions. The resource is divided into four thematic sections. Section one gives an overview of ASD, including prominent researchers in the field and changes in its diagnostic criteria. Section two looks at evidence-based interventions and the newer sensory theories and frameworks. The third section examines ASD across the lifespan, as well as the experiences of parents and families. The final section looks at additional critical issues, including media, sexuality, peer relationships, and immigration. »--

With a unique focus on Canada-wide practices and research, this text offers a comprehensive introduction to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Covering the clinical, educational, and community perspectives of ASD, the authors highlight how educators, direct support professionals, and communities at large can support people with ASD across their lifespan: from early years, to school years, to adulthood. Additionally, the authors emphasize the emerging nature of the field and the importance of evidence based interventions. The resource is divided into four thematic sections. Section one gives an overview of ASD, including prominent researchers in the field and changes in its diagnostic criteria. Section two looks at evidence-based interventions and the newer sensory theories and frameworks. The third section examines ASD across the lifespan, as well as the experiences of parents and families. The final section looks at additional critical issues, including media, sexuality, peer relationships, and immigration. Beyond being a vital asset for ASD programs and resource centres across the country, Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Canadian Context has broad applications suitable for courses on ASD in behavioural science, education, and health studies programs. FEATURES: - Each chapter features figures, definitions, examples, and questions designed to deepen understanding and elicit reflection - Includes feature boxes with interesting perspectives provided by varied members of Canada’s ASD community - Unlike other textbooks on ASD, this text focuses on ASD across the lifespan, covering infancy, early childhood and school years, as well as adulthood, in the Canadian context

Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Ontario Context is the first book to offer a thorough introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Ontario. Highlighting examples, research, and interventions specific to Ontario, this manual provides an abundance of information in one central location, making it an indispensable tool for any Ontario professional working with individuals with ASD. This comprehensive text begins with a brief history of ASD and an overview of its contemporary understandings, including current diagnostic criteria. Covering a range of evidence-based interventions that have been shown to be effective for individuals with ASD—and supplemented with graphics, checklists, and hands-on strategies for application—this book provides essential information to inform practitioners. The concluding section on ASD across the lifespan explores how these interventions are delivered within agencies throughout Ontario, from preschool through to adulthood, and addresses relevant issues and topics for each age group. Featuring chapter summaries, definitions of key terms, lists of further resources, and reflective questions, this highly accessible and pedagogically rich text is vital reading not only for current and future practitioners, but also for parents of children with ASD.

Assessment for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) is essential to provide comprehensive understanding of child functioning, advise diagnosis, and inform treatment. Evidence-based guidelines for ASD diagnosis have been developed; however, results from studies conducted outside Canada suggest disparities between these guidelines and clinical procedures. The objectives of this study were to: (a) understand Canadian clinicians' practices in assessment of ASDs; (b) compare assessment practices to evidence-based guidelines; and (c) identify challenges. Eighty-six Canadian clinicians participated in a survey. Findings suggested a disparity between reported practice and evidence-based guidelines in terms of processes implemented and use of consultation practices. Clinicians indicated that organizing assessment teams and identifying ASDs in high-functioning children are challenges. Overall, this study provides a picture of the current Canadian context for ASD diagnosis. This information may inform the development of additional guidelines and training opportunities, and highlight policy changes required to alleviate challenges in the diagnostic process.

Addressing the Gaps" delves into the often-overlooked struggles of autistic children and their families in Canada, revealing how systemic inadequacies in healthcare, education, and social services lead to profound and lasting impacts. Despite a myriad of policies and programs, many children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are left to navigate a fragmented system that too often falls short. This eBook uncovers the lengthy delays in diagnosis, the patchwork of services that vary drastically from one province to another, and the significant financial burdens placed on families seeking essential therapies and interventions. It highlights the inconsistencies in educational support, where inclusive education policies are poorly implemented and resources for specialized programs are scarce. Through powerful case studies and personal narratives, "Addressing the Gaps" paints a vivid picture of the daily battles faced by autistic children and their families, from social isolation and bullying to the overwhelming stress on parents and caregivers. These stories are complemented by a critical analysis of current government initiatives and the persistent gaps that need urgent attention. Yet, amidst these challenges, the book also shares inspiring success stories of advocacy, innovation, and resilience. It offers a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at policymakers, educators, healthcare providers, and community leaders, providing a roadmap for creating a more equitable and supportive system.

Digital technologies play a significant role in the popular imagination about the future of education, as they are a prominent aspect of modern education provision and practice across the globe. Due to the increased adoption of digital education materials during the COVID-19 pandemic, the pedagogical significance of digital technology has been amplified. Advancing Equity and Inclusion Through Educational Technology builds upon the available literature in equity and inclusion through educational technology while providing further research opportunities in this dynamic and growing field. It provides the opportunity for reflection on this crucial issue by increasing the understanding of the importance of inclusion and equity in the context of educational improvements and providing relevant academic work, empirical research findings, and an overview of this relevant field of study. Covering topics such as sustainable inclusion learning, virtual school press programs, and generic skills, this major reference work is a comprehensive and timely resource for educators and administrators of both K-12 and higher education, government officials, pre-service teachers, teacher educators, librarians, researchers, and academicians.

Law and Neurodiversity offers invaluable guidance on how autism research can inform juvenile justice policies in Canada and the United States. In Canada, the diversion of youth away from formal processing has fostered community-based strategies for serving those with autism. US policies rely more heavily on formal responses, often employing juvenile custody facilities. Building on a rigorous exploration of how assessment, rehabilitation, and community re-entry differ between the two countries, Law and Neurodiversity offers a much-needed comparative analysis of autism and juvenile justice policies on both sides of the forty-ninth parallel.