Autism from the Inside Out is the first book to focus on providing Irish parents, early childhood, primary, post-primary and special school teachers with effective strategies for supporting children with autism spectrum difference at home and in educational settings. Presenting contributions from a range of national and international experts in education and psychology, the volume emerged from an evaluation of education provision commissioned by Ireland's National Council for Special Education, which clearly identified a need for additional guidance, advice and support for parents and teachers.
The book rejects «disorder» in favour of «difference», emphasizing the importance of a child-centred approach and the dangers of over-generalization. It includes chapters on effective teaching strategies to promote learning; responding to children's strengths and needs through individualized planning; assessment practices; the role of the Special Needs Assistant; managing transitions; the environment as the third teacher; promoting children's wellbeing; and effective leadership for inclusion.
The book rejects «disorder» in favour of «difference», emphasizing the importance of a child-centred approach and the dangers of over-generalization. It includes chapters on effective teaching strategies to promote learning; responding to children's strengths and needs through individualized planning; assessment practices; the role of the Special Needs Assistant; managing transitions; the environment as the third teacher; promoting children's wellbeing; and effective leadership for inclusion.
«Viewing autism as a difference rather than a disorder sets the tone for this book. If pupils are understood and appropriate adjustments made, success ensues. The research conducted into educational practice in Ireland and internationally provides the basis for the recommendations made on approaches, inclusion and leadership. Staff working across the age range will find this an invaluable resource, with the key signpost sections giving useful summaries within each chapter.» (Glenys Jones, Autism Centre for Education and Research, University of Birmingham)
«This is a practical book based on the findings of an extensive research project conducted to determine best practice in autism provision in Irish schools. The authors refer to this research process and draw out and expand the key concepts identified in the research. What is important in this book is that they do so from the perspective of the practitioner.
Autism from the Inside Out is primarily child-centred; over twelve chapters the authors and contributors examine practice, assessment and the key relationships that can have an impact on the child's educational experience. The chapters contain useful templates and assessments, and important concepts are highlighted in useful key 'signposts' text boxes. This book will be immensely useful for educational professionals, researchers and students who wish to learn more about best practice for autism in Irish schools.» (Fiona McCafferty, Middletown Centre for Autism, Co. Armagh, Northern Ireland)
«As the recognition of the connection between identity and diversity promotes and supports a reinterpretation of the image of children, Autism from the Inside Out focuses on children's identity and potential during the processes of their growth, learning and development of relationships. The volume provides inclusive and practical pedagogical strategies for educators while recognizing the central role of families in children's educational experiences. The book aligns well with the child-centred and research-based approach typical of San Miniato, which considers children as protagonists of their own education right from the beginning.» (Aldo Fortunati, Gloria Tognetti International Centre, San Miniato, Italy)
«This is a practical book based on the findings of an extensive research project conducted to determine best practice in autism provision in Irish schools. The authors refer to this research process and draw out and expand the key concepts identified in the research. What is important in this book is that they do so from the perspective of the practitioner.
Autism from the Inside Out is primarily child-centred; over twelve chapters the authors and contributors examine practice, assessment and the key relationships that can have an impact on the child's educational experience. The chapters contain useful templates and assessments, and important concepts are highlighted in useful key 'signposts' text boxes. This book will be immensely useful for educational professionals, researchers and students who wish to learn more about best practice for autism in Irish schools.» (Fiona McCafferty, Middletown Centre for Autism, Co. Armagh, Northern Ireland)
«As the recognition of the connection between identity and diversity promotes and supports a reinterpretation of the image of children, Autism from the Inside Out focuses on children's identity and potential during the processes of their growth, learning and development of relationships. The volume provides inclusive and practical pedagogical strategies for educators while recognizing the central role of families in children's educational experiences. The book aligns well with the child-centred and research-based approach typical of San Miniato, which considers children as protagonists of their own education right from the beginning.» (Aldo Fortunati, Gloria Tognetti International Centre, San Miniato, Italy)