"Your son is severely developmentally disabled." A diagnosis of Autism. What does a family do next? INSPIRATION FOR AUTISM shares a determined mother's personal account of the denial accompanying a diagnosis, the confusion around finding resources, the fervor of obtaining services, the overwhelming and invasive nature of employing multiple therapists, and the discovery of the spiritual gifts revealed on this journey--gifts delivered from the Lord's Hands directly into the hearts and minds of the family. INSPIRATION FOR AUTISM is also a resource book, offering the reader valuable information about navigating the educational system, acclimating within the community, and training family and friends as therapists. This includes details regarding school placement options; laws; the IEP process; social and academic assessments; local and national advocates; and resources for helping the Autistic child learn and grow, including how to "fit in" socially and academically. Author and mother Debra Rosen has worked in education for over twenty-five years, giving her the unique perspective of a parent who needs to walk within the system set in place for a special needs child, as well as the insight of an administrator who has helped shape that very system. Debra has grappled with the laws and organizations, and conveys her experience to the reader with dignity and integrity, knowing it is crucial for a parent to understand their rights and options. Autism is a challenge but it is manageable.

Looking at the positive influences, great talents and unique thought processes of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders, this book is a celebration of those who have used their autism to shine in life. Writers from all over the world at different stages in their careers, and from very different backgrounds, share their experiences of creating a successful life on the autism spectrum. Each explains how it is possible to draw on autistic strengths not just to make your way in the world, overcoming challenges and obstacles, but also to make your life a real success. Education, the world of work, and relationships are the focus of the first part of the book, which then goes on to look at exceptional creativity, and the use of special interests. The autobiographical stories in this book are full of wisdom and humour, and will be an inspiration for anyone with high-functioning autism or Asperger Syndrome, their family and friends, and the professionals who work alongside them.

Your son is severely developmentally disabled. A diagnosis of Autism. What does a family do next? INSPIRATION FOR AUTISM shares a determined mothers personal account of the denial accompanying a diagnosis, the confusion around finding resources, the fervor of obtaining services, the overwhelming and invasive nature of employing multiple therapists, and the discovery of the spiritual gifts revealed on this journeygifts delivered from the Lords Hands directly into the hearts and minds of the family. INSPIRATION FOR AUTISM is also a resource book, offering the reader valuable information about navigating the educational system, acclimating within the community, and training family and friends as therapists. This includes details regarding school placement options; laws; the IEP process; social and academic assessments; local and national advocates; and resources for helping the Autistic child learn and grow, including how to fit in socially and academically. Author and mother Debra Rosen has worked in education for over twenty-five years, giving her the unique perspective of a parent who needs to walk within the system set in place for a special needs child, as well as the insight of an administrator who has helped shape that very system. Debra has grappled with the laws and organizations, and conveys her experience to the reader with dignity and integrity, knowing it is crucial for a parent to understand their rights and options. Autism is a challenge but it is manageable.

Fourteen individuals with autism, Asperger's syndrome, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder share the challenges they experienced growing up, their lives, relationships, and eventual careers.

She looked into my eyes and blinked hers slowly and deliberately, like a stroke victim, to show me that although she couldn't speak, she understood what I was saying to her. I stroked her hair softly. 'I know you're in there, honey,' I told her. 'We'll get you out.'" Despite the horror of seeing fifteen-month-old Elizabeth slip away into autism, her mother knew that her bright little girl was still in there. When Elizabeth eventually learned to communicate, first by using a letterboard and later by typing, the poetry she wrote became proof of a glorious, life-affirming victory for this young girl and her family. I Am in Here is the spiritual journey of a mother and daughter who refuse to give up hope, who celebrate their victories, and who keep trying to move forward despite the obstacles. Although she cannot speak, Elizabeth writes poetry that shines a light on the inner world of autism and the world around us. That poetry and her mother's stirring storytelling combine in this inspirational book to proclaim that there is always a reason to take the next step forward--with hope.

This book is an Amazon Best SellerHow does a boy the doctors say is “mentally retarded” graduate high school with honors and earn academic scholarships to attend college?How does a boy who doctors say may never speak become a powerful vocalist and gifted public speaker who brings audiences to tears?How does a boy who cannot tie his shoes until he is 13 years old emerge as a swimming champion who receives an athletic scholarship to swim in college?Only by the grace and power of God.Learn from this inspirational story how you, too, can:• Not just survive but actually thrive in the midst of life's ongoing challenges• Break the cycle of discouragement and depression and learn how to find peace and strength in your struggles• Stop agonizing over what could have been and embrace God's plan for you and those you love• Replace the fear of failure with the truth that you can live in victory in the midst of adversityPatrick offers powerful insights into the autistic mind, and he and Susan hold out hope to anyone facing severe challenges.—Beth, certified special needs teacher...tears were shed while reading this book. I loved it!....this book has given me lots of hope. -Kelly, mother of an autistic child

This is a positive description of how it feels to be autistic and how friends, family and professionals can be more sensitive to the needs of autistic people. Lee O'Neill perceives the imagination and keenly-felt sensory world of the autistic person as gifts. She challenges the reader to accept their difference and celebrate their uniqueness.