Another Webinar to Attend

December 3rd, 2010

Wednesday, January 26th @7:30

Sensory Integration through the Lifespan

Presenter: Nicole Kristal, M.S. OTR/L

She studied Psychology and Sociology at the University of California, Santa Cruz. She obtained her Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from San Jose State University. She currently works as a pediatric Occupational Therapist for children with neuromuscular disorders. She has many years of experience working with children with autism spectrum disorders, including several years spent as an Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapist, working in a private sensory integration clinic, and in several recreational settings as a coach for therapeutic sporting activities.

A new resource

October 26th, 2010

Check out our friends at Think Social Publishing www.socialthinking.com

Autism Spectrum Disorders and the Importance of Structure

March 1st, 2010

Autism Spectrum Disorders and the Importance of Structure

By Dr. Marci Schwartz, Founder, Altitude: Partnering with Families, and Dr. Louise Kindell, Clinical Director, Altitude: Partnering with Families.

Studies within the field of cognitive neuropsychology have shown that those with autism spectrum disorders appear to have significant difficulties with executive functioning. Executive function is a complex and dynamic set of neurological processes that allow a person to effectively plan ahead and problem-solve. It includes behavioral regulation such as inhibition of response, shifting attention, and emotional control. It also includes metacognitive processes, or “knowing about knowing.” These processes include initiating a task, working memory, planning and organizing, organization of materials and self-monitoring (Ozonoff et al., 1991).

Read the rest of this entry »

A Book Recommendation by Stephanie Madrigal

February 27th, 2010

Jarvis Clutch: Social Spy by Mel Levine

This is a book written for middle school age kids that introduces the main character, Jarvis.  Jarvis shares his input and observations about various social happenings on the middle school campus.   Dr. Levine provides fun activities and questions that can help the young readers think more deeply about social situations they can encounter at school.

Read the rest of this entry »

Three Book Recommendations by Dr. Lori E. Bond

February 27th, 2010

Children and Youth With Asperger Syndrome: Strategies for Success in Inclusive Settings by Brenda Smith Myles

This book provides a plethora of intervention strategies to support the child with HFA in the regular education setting.  The book does an excellent job of clearly describing the social –cognitive, executive functioning, sensory and cognitive challenges of the HFA child, as well as strengths and capabilities, and outlining specific strategies to enhance a child’s skills in the classroom and promote independence.   Teachers will find the material well organized, understandable and easy to translate into effective classroom practices.

Read the rest of this entry »

Three Book Recommendations by Dr. Jill Rosenberg

February 27th, 2010

Asperger’s: What Does It Mean to Me? by Catherine Faherty and Gary B. Mesibov

This is a terrific workbook that can be used in therapy or at home.  It describes the unique strengths as well as challenges that are associated with Asperger’s.  I like how it is written from the child’s perspective and as the workbook is completed, it becomes a narrative not only about Asperger’s, but about the child’s own history (family, interests, friendships, schooling).  Creating a cohesive narrative is a key accomplishment of healthy development and this workbook has helped me help children and middle-schoolers do just that.

Read the rest of this entry »