Autism and Education

February 27, 2023
Grandin (The Autistic Brain), a professor of animal sciences at Colorado State University, delivers an insightful and pragmatic guide to helping autistic children thrive. Grandin, who is autistic, recalls how an early education program markedly improved her speech skills as a child—before that, she’d sometimes resort to screaming to communicate—and draws on that experience to advocate for an early-intervention, child-centered approach to education. For example, she explains that while nonverbal children between ages two and five require 10–20 hours per week of one-on-one speech and behavioral instruction, it can come from a professional or a capable family member; what’s important are progress markers such as reduced impulsivity and improved speech. Elsewhere, she recommends zeroing in on and cultivating the child’s individual strengths rather than focusing on deficits. In considering the wide autism spectrum, with members “rang from computer scientists to individuals who will never live independently,” Grandin stresses it’s vital not to overvalue the autism label, as it can prove limiting and imprecise. The author’s pinpoint guiding principles (high expectations yield results) and brass-tacks recommendations (strategies for teaching turn-taking or mastering basic life skills) combine to create a program that’s thoughtful and comprehensive, but not overwhelming. For educators or parents of autistic children, this will be a valuable resource.

Starred review from May 1, 2023

Grandin (animal science, Colorado State Univ.; coauthor, The Autistic Brain) has long been a trusted expert in the field of autism. From an insider perspective, she writes this book in response to feedback from autistic adults. In 1949, autism was an unknown diagnosis, yet Grandin's mother advocated for her to receive several hours per day of speech therapy and lessons using play as a tool. The author now believes a watchful parent can both facilitate an autistic child's growth and curb impulsive behavior, even when formal therapies are not available. The book notes that although labels can be a requirement for getting necessary services, these same words can become a hindrance to a child's confidence. Each chapter includes a guide to additional reading from educational journals and online resources. There are also tips for choosing a school to help autistic students. The book's main focus tells adults how to find and develop their child's individual strengths, rather than perceived areas of improvement. VERDICT A valuable tool for both parents and educators centered on Grandin's personal experiences and her many years in the fields of autism and behavior science. This is essential for parents with an autistic child.

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