Right from the Start: Behavioral Intervention for Young Children with Autism: A Guide for Parents and Professionals

by Sandra L. Harris, Mary Jane Weiss

Written in an accessible and friendly style, Right from the Start explains how the teaching method known as intensive behavioral intervention (IBI) can benefit young children with autism and related disorders. This includes all children whose diagnosis falls within the broad specturm of Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD), especially those five and younger. This guide begins by discussing applied behavioral analysis (ABA), the central component of intensive behavioral intervention. Readers learn how ABA can be used to teach speech and language, social, motor, and adaptive skills through a system of repetition, reward, and goal adjustment. The descriptions of a real-life family going through the process of understanding their young child's diagnosis and choosing an intensive behavioral intervention program bolster the confidence of other parents in making their own evaluations. And "parent statements" included in each chapter offer important empathy. The authors also discuss what families should consider before choosing any treatment method for their child with autism, and specifically what key elements an IBI program should have. Curriculum, professional roles, parent involvement, inclusion, and the pros and cons of a home-based versus center-based program are all covered. A glossary of terms commonly used in autism research and education helps to demystify what at first seems like an intimidating subject. All in all, this practical and authoritative guide will save parents much time and worry in their search to help their young child with autism.

Genres: Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Nonfiction, Parenting

138 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1998

About the author

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Reviews

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was helpful and answered a several of my questions. Nothing is better than talking to other parents who have children on the Autism Spectrum but this is a good general guide.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very specific and detailed explanation of the methods of IBI and ABA. My child is older than 5 but I was pleased to learn more about the early behavioral intervention methods that I think have the potential to still assist him also. This book helped me to feel more 'in the loop' about autism treatment.

[R.K. Goff · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good slightly-more-in-depth explanation of ABA, and why you (theoretically) absolutely, essentially, MUST have it. I'm not sure I agree with all the claims of imperative-implementation, but if you want info on ABA, this is a good book.

[Jim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was written by the directors of the DDDC. It lays out the ground rules explaining how to find the right ABA program for kids with autism.

[A.B.C. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Practical guide to understanding and treating autism. As a professional I found it helpful.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an informative and concise textbook to rapidly educate the novice parent about different behavioral approaches. There are also good ideas and suggestions.

[Lauren Raimondi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great resource for parents of children with autism. Tons of information is given to help parents make educated choices about programs and supports for their children.

[Taylor · Rating 2 out of 5]

Very dry and repetitive. It read like a textbook.

[Kathleen · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read it out of necessity. Some helpful information for me as a parent, but difficult to get through. I felt very much like I was reading a text book.