A Parent's Guide to High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder

“This is a really great book for parents….It is upbeat, positive, practical, and succeeds in being both jargon free and highly informative....Unlike many books for parents, this is very well referenced, has a good index, and is also full of useful information about relevant websites, newsletters and special centers. In short, although...it is a parents’ guide, the book is likely to be equally helpful to clinicians and educators working in this area, providing them with strategies that they themselves can use, as well as a host of practical approaches that they can pass on to parents.”

—Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry (on the first edition)


“A valuable resource. It not only informs readers but also leaves them with a sense of hope. They will realize that it is possible for children with Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism to lead full and happy lives.”

—Family Ministry (on the first edition)


“The positive approach of this book will be encouraging to parents and will also be very practical. I have recommended this book to the parents of affected children with whom I have worked and also to my graduate students who are eager to better understand the world of children with Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism.”

—Child Neuropsychology (on the first edition)


“Parents and clinicians alike will be hard-pressed to find a finer guide and resource.*****”

—Doody's Review Service (on the first edition)


“Throughout, readers will find excellent examples and solutions to basic problems; also included are numerous instances of older children who went beyond basic communication issues to social situations such as dating, school, living on their own, and employment. Most books on Asperger syndrome/high-functioning autism focus on early intervention and basic skills, but this book offers help for older children and adults as well, making it very valuable. Strongly recommended for public libraries and academic libraries with autism or education collections.”

—Library Journal (on the first edition)


“You know an excellent book when it generously delivers on both the title and the subtitle’s promises….This book is one that truly follows through.The book is outstanding when it comes to helping parents in turn help their child on the spectrum. The authors present a powerfully humanistic perspective on the cognitive, behavioral, and social idiosyncrasies of high-functioning autismand they manage to reframe these symptoms as characteristics. This allows the reader to see these aspects as strengths that are ripe for utilization….You could say this book has two audiences: children with high-functioning autism, and their parents. Ozonoff, Dawson, and McPartland take great care of both communities.”

—PsychCentral


“I really like how this book emphasizes building on the talents and strengths of a person with high-functioning autism. It contains many useful case histories and combines both scientific and practical information for parents, teachers, and other professionals.”

—Temple Grandin, PhD, author of Thinking in Pictures


“What an immensely readable and empowering book! It contains everything a parent needs to know in order to understand, support, and advocate for a child with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder. The authors are leaders in the field—sensitive and compassionate clinicians as well as highly respected clinical researchers. This second edition provides practical insights and useful strategies that are well grounded in the most current scientific knowledge.”

—Wendy L. Stone, PhD, Department of Psychology, University of Washington; Director, Research on Early Autism Detection and Intervention (READi) Lab


“This is the indispensable book I would want were I the parent of a child, adolescent, or adult with high-functioning autism or Asperger syndrome. Written and organized in a way that is highly engaging and accessible, the expert authors show parents how to maximize success at each stage of life from toddlerhood to adulthood. Unique in its positive approach, the Guide focuses on how to capitalize on the strengths shown by affected individuals, offering practical strategies that promote self-esteem and better emotional health. Parents will find this hands-on guide engaging, informative, sometimes funny, and most important, highly useful.”

—Deborah Fein, PhD, Departments of Psychology and Pediatrics, University of Connecticut


“With a plethora of books available about autism, this is one of the few that I recommend to parents whose child has just received a diagnosis. It is written by some of the world’s leading authorities, who combine up-to-date research and practice in a highly accessible way. While the content is grounded in research, it has many down-to-earth practical tips and advice. The second edition will be on the reading list I give my clinical students in child psychology and psychiatry.”

—Tony Charman, PhD, Chair in Clinical Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, King’s College London, United Kingdom


“This is the book that I recommend you read first after receiving your child's diagnosis—you'll find researched treatments, strategies, and resources to begin helping your son or daughter right away. It will help you prioritize and chart the course for 'what's next.' The authors emphasize how gaining a deeper understanding of your child's strengths, talents, and preferences can help you create meaningful supports as he or she grows into adulthood.”

—Lynne Weissmann, mother of an adult with Asperger syndrome