Ever wish that parenting a child or teen on the autism spectrum came with instant access to a support group?
Brenda Dater has provided parents with exactly that. In this book she draws on her extensive experience as a support group leader and parent of a child on the spectrum to offer trusted advice and tried-and-tested solutions to parents' top concerns, all in an accessible and easy-to-read format. Filled with the voices of other parents in the same situation, the book covers everything from the first steps to take after diagnosis, to advocacy and disclosure, behavior, building independence and resilience, making friends, holidays and vacations, homework, supporting siblings, how to garner support from extended family and friends, and how parents can look after their own wellbeing.
This book extends the vital lifeline of a support group to parents of children and teens on the autism spectrum everywhere.
Industry Reviews
Brenda Dater has written a real gem. I started highlighting the passages I loved, only to realize that whole pages were covered in yellow highlighter! There are so many wonderful insights and ideas in this book. One of the aspects that makes Ms. Dater's book so unique, though, is its consistent focus on parents taking care of themselves. All too often, we professionals heap on recommendation after recommendation. In our zeal to help, we may forget that parents and children are parents and children first, and individuals affected by autism second. In her own eloquent words, Ms. Dater's book reminds all of us that it is essential to heed the flight attendant's warning: "Take care of yourself before attending to the needs of others." I can't wait to start sharing Ms. Dater's book with the families I know.
