Understanding Autism For Dummies

Foreword xvii

Introduction 1

Part I: Understanding Autism 9

Chapter 1: Autism: The Big Picture 11

Chapter 2: From Classification to Treatment: Scanning the Autism Spectrum 27

Chapter 3: Causes, Clusters, and Clues: Where Does Autism Come From? 39

Chapter 4: Getting a Diagnosis 53

Chapter 5: Asperger Syndrome and Autism 71

Part II: Addressing Physical Needs 93

Chapter 6: Injecting Yourself with Knowledge about Autism Medication 95

Chapter 7: Improving Immunity and Boosting Biochemistry 109

Chapter 8: Optimizing Nutrition 129

Part III: Enhancing Learning and Social Skills 145

Chapter 9: Choosing an Appropriate Behavioral, Developmental, or Educational Intervention 147

Chapter 10: Dealing with Learning and Sensory Differences 181

Chapter 11: Finding a Learning Environment That Fits Your Child’s Needs 207

Chapter 12: Legally Speaking: Making the Most of Your Child’s Education 235

Chapter 13: Fostering Healthy Relationships 253

Part IV: Living with Autism as an Adult 271

Chapter 14: For Adults with Autism: Living Well after K-12 273

Chapter 15: For Adults with Autism: Fostering Friendships and Romantic Relationships 301

Chapter 16: Special-Needs Planning for the Future 319

Part V: The Part of Tens 333

Chapter 17: Ten Tactful Responses to Challenging Questions or Comments 335

Chapter 18: Ten Things to Do after a Diagnosis 341

Appendix: Where to Go for More Help 345

Index 355