Resources for Special Needs
This Anguishing Blessed Journey by Sonya Shafer
A faith journal that addresses the spiritual struggles that a parent faces when her child is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Lots of Scripture. Very encouraging. ISBN 1594670803
Let Me Hear Your Voice: A Family’s Triumph Over Autism by Catherine Maurice
One family’s story of their experience “storming the castle” to bring two of their children back from their autistic “own little world.” Emphasizes ABA therapy. ISBN 0449906647
Behavioral Intervention for Young Children with Autism edited by Catherine Maurice
A how-to manual for ABA therapy. Comprehensive list of skills to teach with detailed instructions, specific tips, and reproducible forms. ISBN 0890796831
Facing Autism by Lynn Hamilton
A narrative of one mother’s experiences working with her autistic child. Includes informative summaries of various therapies available. ISBN 1578562627
Special Diets for Special Kids by Lisa Lewis
Explains the gluten-free, casein-free (GFCF) diet and gives lots of alternate recipes. ISBN 1885477449
Enzymes for Autism and Other Neurological Conditions by Karen DeFelice
Follows parents in an e-mail loop as they test and refine enzyme therapy with their children. Scientific explanations in easy-to-read language. Lots of practical tips on using enzymes effectively. ISBN 0972591877
Autism/Aspergers: Solving the Relationship Puzzle by Steven E. Gutstein
Explains a therapy (Relationship Development Intervention [RDI]) that encourages autistic children to develop emotional sharing and social connectedness through enjoyable activities. Based on research that breaks down the social development of neurologically typical children into six levels with step-by-step stages within each level. Revolutionary concept in therapy that nudges autistic children toward relating without “scripts.” ISBN 1885477708
Relationship Development Intervention with Young Children by Steven E. Gutstein and Rachelle K. Sheely
Describes the enjoyable activities used for Levels 1–3 of Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) as described in Autism/Aspergers: Solving the Relationship Puzzle (see review above). Levels 4–6 activities are given in Relationship Development Intervention with Children, Adolescents and Adults also by Steven E. Gutstein and Rachelle K. Sheely. ISBN 1843107147
PREACCH (Parents Rearing and Educating Autistic Children in Christian Homes)
A Christian e-mail loop for parents of ASD children. Moderated by Jill Bond.
A manufacturer of enzymes specifically formulated for ASD dietary intervention. Informative FAQ section.
A Christian home schooling mother of two (one with autism) who offers curriculum consulting, teaching strategies, and information on the how-to’s of home schooling children with and without special needs. We’ve found her counsel practical and valuable.
A how-to manual for parents who want to do their child’s speech therapy at home. Two volumes are available to help with childhood mispronunciations and language development.
A wonderful place to find all kinds of games, assessments, and other educational materials to help you teach a child with various developmental delays. Great detailed catalog and free shipping.
Another great place to find games, assessments, and educational materials for helping with communication disorders.
A wonderful blog written by a friend of mine who chronicles her experiences homeschooling her autistic daughter. Lots of detailed how-to’s and links to great resources. Wonderful videos demonstrating RDI therapy.