Abstract

Identifying Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as early as possible can have a significant, positive impact on the child's journey to adaptation and independence. Yet too few diagnoses take place at an early, developmentally crucial stage. This unique visual guide aims to equip readers with the skills to recognise ASD in very young children.

The book provides a systematic framework for understanding the complex nature of ASD. From social interaction to communication to restricted and repetitive behaviors, each chapter focuses on key symptoms and uses photographs to illustrate and enhance understanding of presenting or absent behaviors. It is written in an accessible style and covers all of the core aspects of ASD, giving readers everything they need to be able to successfully identify the behavioral indicators of autism. A final chapter provides an overview of assessment options for young children being evaluated for possible ASD.

Taking a visual approach to identifying ASD in very young children, this book will be a valuable resource for early intervention professionals and students, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, psychologists, paediatricians, teachers as well as parents of children pre- and post-diagnosis.

This is a brilliant, visual, photo-illustrated, guide that demonstrates the benefits of early intervention and how having the right support in place early on can have such a significant and positive impact on a child's journey to adaptation and independence.
Early Years Educator (eye)
Patricia O'Brien Towle offers a fresh, new look at the intricacies of identification of autism in children. Her approach is very worth reviewing and taking into consideration when making this vital diagnostic call. Read, remember, and reference!
Susan J. Moreno, CEO and Founder, OASIS@MAAP, MAAP Services for Autism and Asperger Syndrome
Although there are still many mysteries concerning Autism Spectrum Disorders, one thing generally agreed upon is that early intervention is important for more positive, long-term outcomes. This book offers an in-depth analysis of the quest for earlier identification strategies and training techniques and represents a major contribution that many will find invaluable. The research review is thorough and presented in a way that scientists, practitioners, and parents will be able to appreciate and understand. Its combination of scientific integrity, clear descriptions, and jargon-free explanations is one way that this book stands out. Another is that the book reflects the author's conviction that the use of many visuals, including pictures, photographs, and figures, is the best way for readers to understand the issues related to early identification of Autism Spectrum Disorders and to develop the necessary observational skills to be effective researchers and practitioners.
Gary B. Mesibov, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The author provides an easy-to-read handbook for observing the communication, social play, and cognitive skills of young children with ASD through the use of stills from videos and photographs... This book could be a useful tool for the newly qualified therapist or for the professional with limited experience of working with children with autism, as well as educators and health professionals who seek to extend their knowledge and observation skills in this area.
British Journal of Occupational Therapy
Patricia O'Brien Towle, Ph.D., has 30 years' experience of early childhood developmental disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorders. She is a clinical psychologist at the Westchester Institute for Human Development and assistant professor of psychiatry, pediatrics and public health at New York Medical College. In addition to her extensive clinical experience, Patricia carries out research on the prevalence and developmental course of ASD and trains and supervises psychology interns and post-doctoral fellows. She lives in New York.