BOOK REVIEW: Fabulous New Resource: GIRLS GROWING UP ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM

[AisForAutism]

Girls Growing Up on the Autism Spectrum, by Shana Nichols, is an amazing resource chock-full of so much information including professional perspectives and personal experience from mothers, daughters and educators, that I consider this a "must have" for anyone interacting with young ladies in the teens/tweens age group who have ASDs. It is phenomenal just how much information is so effectively contained in 350 pages and, yet, it is presented in such "bite-sized" pieces that one doesn't get lost in a sea of information.

The book touches on the differences between boys and girls on the spectrum as well as how girls sometimes "fly under the radar" generally getting diagnosed later than boys. As well, the roller coaster of challenges that the combination of adolescence with autism presents are covered in depth. A "Teaching Toolkit" with guidelines and techniques is thoroughly highlighted. The 4 P's (Puberty, Periods, Pads and Pelvic Exams) are covered so effectively that a mom will now have confidence and practical "tools" in helping her teen succeed in these areas.

Providing detailed suggestions about health, fitness, body image and even the importance of shopping for her first bra are such practical and useful tips that a mother of any young lady would find them useful. Directly addressing the social "landscape" of friends and social status will help parents navigate these tricky waters and provide opportunities for their daughters.

Addressing healthy sexuality as well as personal safety for girls with ASDs provides parents with straightforward tips and resources for making a tough subject a very manageable learning experience.

The book ends with the proverbial icing on the cake by following a mother and daughter (with ASD) as they progressed through their journey with Asperger's Syndrome. Seeing the story told from both vantage points gives such an invaluable perspective which, I am sure, will help many families know that they are not alone in this journey through autism.

KUDOS to the authors and all the references, resources and internet links that they made available to make this book even more beneficial for readers. I have read stacks of books on autism and I truly believe that GIRLS GROWING UP ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM is a must-have for any family who has a daughter on the autism spectrum. I can definitely see a mother reading, re-reading and highlighting this book as her daughter progresses through various stages of adolescence and life as a girl on the autism spectrum. It is bursting to the seams with useful hands-on proactive approaches to parenting these wonderful and unique young ladies.


Joanna Keating-Velasco, Para-Educator and Author of Kid's Books on Autism

www.AisForAutism.net

Tags: autism, girls on the spectrum, asd, asperger's syndrome

Add A Comment

[penny201]

Nov. 3, 2009 at 9:33 AM

Hay Joanna, sounds like a wonderful book. Next time I have my group out shopping I might look for it for my special young friend in my youth group. I am sure both she and her family could benefit from it..

Thnx,  Penny

                                    

[AisForAutism]

Nov. 3, 2009 at 7:22 PM

Penny, I think this book is a must for moms who have young daughters on the spectrum. It really lays out plans for helping girls navigate through so many various challenges including periods and friendship. It's such a fantastic resource.

Thanks for your comment. Have a great day.

(Original Poster)

[saltycoqui]

Nov. 4, 2009 at 12:32 PM

Sounds like a must-have book!

[tink571]

Nov. 17, 2009 at 9:12 AM

Oh I have been looking for a book on dealing with issues for my daughter thought of writing on myself due to her struggles she has. she is not able to read so things are complicated. i will check this out and hope it covers what  we deal with.