Abstract

If your child finds talking to people a struggle, this is the book to get the conversation started.

In this hands-on guide, Heather Jones offers practical advice, born of experience with her own son, which will help you teach your child the principles of communication. Full of strategies and examples, it shows how you can allay fears, build confidence and teach your child to enjoy conversation. Once a child gets used to talking with other people, many life skills can develop more easily as they grow up – from making friends and shopping for themselves, to being interviewed and eventually getting a job.

This handy book provides guidance and inspiration to parents, teachers and anyone else who cares for a child who finds language and comprehension difficult.

With the benefit of hindsight and personal experience, Heather Jones has provided a powerful insight into the complexities of raising a child with Asperger Syndrome and significant speech language impairment. This enlightening account of Jamie's journey from angry, frustrated child to communicative young adult should not be missed.
Sarah Frost (M.Ed; Ba hons) Educational Consultant
“This book is a sign of emotional intelligence at its best. It is a wonderfully inspiring piece of writing and should be at the fingertips of parents everywhere who want to think clearly and communicate lovingly with their children. Heather Jones has displayed all of the insights of on outstanding communicator in approaching the problem of connecting with, and developing the communication skills of, her son. She has then managed to translate these insights into clear and simple steps for all to follow.”
Patsy McCarthy, Adjunct Professor, Speech Communication, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane
Heather Jones's son, Jamie, has Asperger Syndrome and severe speech and language impairments. When Jamie was 10, Heather stumbled across a way of getting through to him. Over the years she developed this methodology in more detail, calling it conversational therapy, and has never looked back. Jamie is now 19 and can hold a conversation, which has enabled him to go on to achieve much more, including passing his driving test and getting a job. Heather is the Director of Milkwood Educational, which publishes ESL textbooks in the Far East. She lives in Queensland, Australia.
“Heather Jones has given us an easy-to-read book on an important and complex topic—conversation. She brings a wealth of experience and understanding of her son who, like many others, lacks the skills (though not the interest) to talk with us. Lots of tips for parents here. We need more books from those who live with those coping with autism.”
Anne M. Donnellan, PhD, Professor, University of San Diego, Professor Emerita, University of Wisconsin-Madison
This should be read by parents of all children, not just those with autism.
Lorretta Perry, grandmother of Yvander, a 17-year old with ADHD and autism