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اختراق التوحد : الطريقة الرائدة التي ساعدت العائلات في جميع أنحاء العالم
ألقِ نظرة أدناه على الأخطاء العشرة وكيف نمنعها. سوف تشكر نفسك من الآن حتى السنة الجديدة!
منع طفلك من القيام بسلوكاته النمطية isming (سلوكاته المتكررة stimming)
إذا أخذنا في الحسبان الاضطراب والتغير في الروتين في العطلة، فإن هذا هو أهم وقت لأطفالنا ليعدِّلوا أنفسهم، ويتوافقوا مع بيئتنا، نحن نعرف أن السلوكات النمطية مهمة جدًّا لأطفالنا ونظامهم العصبي. من الناحية المثالية -دون شك- سوف ننضم في هذه السلوكات النمطية، ولكن حتى في أوقات العطلات عندما لا نستطيع أن نقوم بذلك، فإنه يمكننا أن نسمح لهم بالقيام بأمرهم. وعندما نفعل ذلك، يربح الجميع!
إطعام طفلك أطعمة تجعله يفشل فشلًا ذريعًا
نعم، إنها العطلات، حيث الحلويات، والأطعمة المليئة بالحنطة، والألبان متوافرة بكثرة، قد يكون من المغري أن نسمح لأطفالنا أن يشتركوا في هذه الوفرة الوفيرة، وقد نظن أنه سيكون من الأسهل أن نجعلهم يتناولونها هذه المرة؛ دعني أؤكد لك: لن يكون ذلك أسهل!
هناك العديد من الأطعمة التي نعرف أنه لن يتم هضمها بشكل جيد من قبل أطفالنا. نعم، في الدقائق الأولى من السماح لهم بتناول ما هو متوافر سيكون الأمر سهلًا، ولكن بعدها ببضع دقائق… سيبدأ وقت الانهيار والاحتراق… سيبدأ الفشل الذريع. الانهيارات، والتخمة، والتحديات السلوكية، والإسهال التي ستكون نتيجتها لا تستحق ما سمحنا به. إن التفكير المسبق في إبعاد هذه الأطعمة عن أطفالنا، أو من الأفضل، عدم جعلها متوافرة سوف يجعل من تجربة العطلة بأكملها أسهل بمليون مرة.
مفاجأة طفلك
أحيانًا ننشغل في التخطيط للعطلة والاستعداد للخروج، مثلًا: (الذهاب إلى بيت الجدة) أو مشروع (وضع شجرة عيد الميلاد) بحيث ننسى أن نخبر مشاركًا مهمًّا: طفلنا الخاص، ومع أن نيتنا ليست مفاجأة أطفالنا، فإن هذا هو ما يحصل عندما نغادر أو نبدأ في مشروع من دون أن نفسر كل شيء سوف يحدث لأطفالنا مقدمًا، وحتى بالنسبة إلى أطفالنا غير الناطقين، فإن التفسير لهم مقدمًا ماذا سيحدث وكيف سيحدث سيكون مرحًا بالنسبة إليهم سيكون له أبعد الأثر في الحد من نوبات غضبهم وتعظيم تعاونهم.
عدم ترك مخرج
من الشائع أن نذهب إلى منزل أحدهم للاحتفال بعطلة، وفي العادة نصطحب طفلنا آملين في حدوث الأفضل، معتقدين أننا لا نقوم بالكثير من التحكم في هذا الأمر، ولكننا نقوم به! يمكننا أن نخصص -مسبقًا- غرفة هادئة أو حيزًا يمكن لطفلنا أن يذهب إليه ليخفف الضغط عنه حال شعوره أنه ضج بالاضطراب والمعطيات الحسية التي ترافق هذه الاحتفالات، وفي الغالب من المفيد أن نأخذ طفلنا لهذه الغرفة وقضاء بعض الوقت معه بمفردكما.
التركيز على وقف التحديات السلوكية
يفزع معظمنا من أطفالنا عندما يقومون بتحديات سلوكية؛ فنحن نقلق بشأنها، وننتبه لها، ونقوم بإيقافها حال حدوثها. ومن باب السخرية، فإن هذا يضع التركيز على ما لا نريده من أطفالنا، فإذا ما أردنا ألا يقوم أطفالنا بالضرب، فإن التركيز على (عدم الضرب) يمكن أن يؤدي في الواقع إلى مزيد من الضرب. بدلًا من ذلك، يمكننا أن نحتفل بطفلنا في كل مرة يقوم فيها بما نريد، وإذا ما كان لدينا طفل يقوم بالضرب أحيانًا فيمكن أن تختلف الأمور اختلافًا كبيرًا عندما نبحث عن أي وقت يكون فيه طفلنا لطيفًا، ونهتف له بكل قوة!
إعطاء هدية مفرطة الاستثارة
بالتأكيد، نحن نحس بمتعة كبيرة من تجربة منح الهدايا لأطفالنا، ولكننا نود أن نكون مدركين لنوع الهدية التي سنعطيها لأطفالنا الخاصين؛ فإذا ما أعطيناهم لعبة ذات أضواء براقة أو أصوات عالية، فإننا كمن يسأل عن التحديات السلوكية لاحقًا. دعونا نأخذ وقتًا لنتدبر بإخلاص ما إذا كانت الهدية التي نوشك على تقديمها ستسهم في فرط الإثارة لأطفالنا ذوي النظام العصبي الحساس.
ترك أطفالنا خارج عملية التهادي
نحن نأخذ في الحسبان أطفالنا الخاصين عندما نشتري الهدايا، ولكن هل نفكر في أطفالنا الخاصين بوصفهم مانحين للهدايا؟ إن التفكير في الآخرين -ماذا يريدون، وما الذي يمكننا أن نقوم به إزاءهم- هو عنصر مهم في العلاقات الاجتماعية التي نريد أطفالنا أن يتعلموها. توفر العطلات فرصة مثالية لذلك! يمكننا أن نجدول بعض الجلسات مع طفلنا الخاص مقدمًا حيث نساعدهم على تجهيز هدية لشخص أو أكثر من الأشخاص في حياته أو في حياتها. (يمكن لهذه الهدايا والأنشطة أن تتراوح من أشياء بسيطة لأخرى أكثر تعقيدًا، تبعًا لمستوى تطور طفلنا)، ثم في يوم الهدية يمكننا أن ندعو طفلنا الخاص لتقديم الهدية التي قام بعملها (بأفضل ما يستطيع).
التوقع أن (تفهم) عائلاتنا الأمر
يشعر بعضنا بالإحباط -أحيانًا- من بعض الأقارب الذين لا يبدون تفهمًا لطفلنا الخاص أو يتجاوبون معهم. لكن تذكر، إذا كان هؤلاء الأقارب لا يعيشون مع طفلنا فإنهم لن يستطيعوا (فهم) الأمر. عندما نصطحب أطفالنا لزيارة أقاربنا في العطلات أو المناسبات يمكننا أن نرسل لهم رسالة إلكترونية تبين لهم ما الذي يمكنهم أن يقوموا به لجعل الزيارة مريحة لنا ولأطفالنا، ويمكننا أن نغتنم هذه المناسبة لنبين السبب وراء كون الأصوات العالية مشكلة، أو نخبر كل شخص عن الجواب الذي يحب طفلنا أن يسمعه عندما يسأل السؤال نفسه مرة تلو الأخرى، وبهذه الطريقة فإننا نرتب الأمور بما فيه مصلحة طفلنا.
التفكير في أن الأنشطة يجب أن تحدث خارج المنزل
نحن نعرف أن أطفال طيف التوحُّد يحسنون التصرف أفضل دائمًا عندما لا يخضعون لفرط الإثارة من الأضواء والأصوات والروائح والأحداث غير المتوقعة في العالم الخارجي؛ ولذلك نُوجِد تجارب في بيوتنا نود أن نحظى بها في الخارج، فمثلًا: بدلًا من الذهاب إلى مهرجان مسائي ذي أضواء احتفالية، يمكننا أن نضع أضواء الأعياد حول المنزل، ونطفئ أنوار المنزل، ونشغل موسيقا العيد بصوت هادئ. قد يقلق بعضنا من كوننا نحرم أطفالنا من تجربة بهجة العيد، ولكن تذكر أنه عندما لا يستطيع أطفالنا هضم التجربة، فإنهم لا يشعرون بالبهجة التي نريدها لهم، على أي حال. وهذا هو السبب، إذا ما استطعنا أن نوجد نسخًا معدلة مما يحدث في الخارج، فإن أطفالنا سيستمتعون بالتجربة، ومن ثم فإننا نمنح أطفالن...
منع طفلك من القيام بسلوكاته النمطية isming (سلوكاته المتكررة stimming)
إذا أخذنا في الحسبان الاضطراب والتغير في الروتين في العطلة، فإن هذا هو أهم وقت لأطفالنا ليعدِّلوا أنفسهم، ويتوافقوا مع بيئتنا، نحن نعرف أن السلوكات النمطية مهمة جدًّا لأطفالنا ونظامهم العصبي. من الناحية المثالية -دون شك- سوف ننضم في هذه السلوكات النمطية، ولكن حتى في أوقات العطلات عندما لا نستطيع أن نقوم بذلك، فإنه يمكننا أن نسمح لهم بالقيام بأمرهم. وعندما نفعل ذلك، يربح الجميع!
إطعام طفلك أطعمة تجعله يفشل فشلًا ذريعًا
نعم، إنها العطلات، حيث الحلويات، والأطعمة المليئة بالحنطة، والألبان متوافرة بكثرة، قد يكون من المغري أن نسمح لأطفالنا أن يشتركوا في هذه الوفرة الوفيرة، وقد نظن أنه سيكون من الأسهل أن نجعلهم يتناولونها هذه المرة؛ دعني أؤكد لك: لن يكون ذلك أسهل!
هناك العديد من الأطعمة التي نعرف أنه لن يتم هضمها بشكل جيد من قبل أطفالنا. نعم، في الدقائق الأولى من السماح لهم بتناول ما هو متوافر سيكون الأمر سهلًا، ولكن بعدها ببضع دقائق… سيبدأ وقت الانهيار والاحتراق… سيبدأ الفشل الذريع. الانهيارات، والتخمة، والتحديات السلوكية، والإسهال التي ستكون نتيجتها لا تستحق ما سمحنا به. إن التفكير المسبق في إبعاد هذه الأطعمة عن أطفالنا، أو من الأفضل، عدم جعلها متوافرة سوف يجعل من تجربة العطلة بأكملها أسهل بمليون مرة.
مفاجأة طفلك
أحيانًا ننشغل في التخطيط للعطلة والاستعداد للخروج، مثلًا: (الذهاب إلى بيت الجدة) أو مشروع (وضع شجرة عيد الميلاد) بحيث ننسى أن نخبر مشاركًا مهمًّا: طفلنا الخاص، ومع أن نيتنا ليست مفاجأة أطفالنا، فإن هذا هو ما يحصل عندما نغادر أو نبدأ في مشروع من دون أن نفسر كل شيء سوف يحدث لأطفالنا مقدمًا، وحتى بالنسبة إلى أطفالنا غير الناطقين، فإن التفسير لهم مقدمًا ماذا سيحدث وكيف سيحدث سيكون مرحًا بالنسبة إليهم سيكون له أبعد الأثر في الحد من نوبات غضبهم وتعظيم تعاونهم.
عدم ترك مخرج
من الشائع أن نذهب إلى منزل أحدهم للاحتفال بعطلة، وفي العادة نصطحب طفلنا آملين في حدوث الأفضل، معتقدين أننا لا نقوم بالكثير من التحكم في هذا الأمر، ولكننا نقوم به! يمكننا أن نخصص -مسبقًا- غرفة هادئة أو حيزًا يمكن لطفلنا أن يذهب إليه ليخفف الضغط عنه حال شعوره أنه ضج بالاضطراب والمعطيات الحسية التي ترافق هذه الاحتفالات، وفي الغالب من المفيد أن نأخذ طفلنا لهذه الغرفة وقضاء بعض الوقت معه بمفردكما.
التركيز على وقف التحديات السلوكية
يفزع معظمنا من أطفالنا عندما يقومون بتحديات سلوكية؛ فنحن نقلق بشأنها، وننتبه لها، ونقوم بإيقافها حال حدوثها. ومن باب السخرية، فإن هذا يضع التركيز على ما لا نريده من أطفالنا، فإذا ما أردنا ألا يقوم أطفالنا بالضرب، فإن التركيز على (عدم الضرب) يمكن أن يؤدي في الواقع إلى مزيد من الضرب. بدلًا من ذلك، يمكننا أن نحتفل بطفلنا في كل مرة يقوم فيها بما نريد، وإذا ما كان لدينا طفل يقوم بالضرب أحيانًا فيمكن أن تختلف الأمور اختلافًا كبيرًا عندما نبحث عن أي وقت يكون فيه طفلنا لطيفًا، ونهتف له بكل قوة!
إعطاء هدية مفرطة الاستثارة
بالتأكيد، نحن نحس بمتعة كبيرة من تجربة منح الهدايا لأطفالنا، ولكننا نود أن نكون مدركين لنوع الهدية التي سنعطيها لأطفالنا الخاصين؛ فإذا ما أعطيناهم لعبة ذات أضواء براقة أو أصوات عالية، فإننا كمن يسأل عن التحديات السلوكية لاحقًا. دعونا نأخذ وقتًا لنتدبر بإخلاص ما إذا كانت الهدية التي نوشك على تقديمها ستسهم في فرط الإثارة لأطفالنا ذوي النظام العصبي الحساس.
ترك أطفالنا خارج عملية التهادي
نحن نأخذ في الحسبان أطفالنا الخاصين عندما نشتري الهدايا، ولكن هل نفكر في أطفالنا الخاصين بوصفهم مانحين للهدايا؟ إن التفكير في الآخرين -ماذا يريدون، وما الذي يمكننا أن نقوم به إزاءهم- هو عنصر مهم في العلاقات الاجتماعية التي نريد أطفالنا أن يتعلموها. توفر العطلات فرصة مثالية لذلك! يمكننا أن نجدول بعض الجلسات مع طفلنا الخاص مقدمًا حيث نساعدهم على تجهيز هدية لشخص أو أكثر من الأشخاص في حياته أو في حياتها. (يمكن لهذه الهدايا والأنشطة أن تتراوح من أشياء بسيطة لأخرى أكثر تعقيدًا، تبعًا لمستوى تطور طفلنا)، ثم في يوم الهدية يمكننا أن ندعو طفلنا الخاص لتقديم الهدية التي قام بعملها (بأفضل ما يستطيع).
التوقع أن (تفهم) عائلاتنا الأمر
يشعر بعضنا بالإحباط -أحيانًا- من بعض الأقارب الذين لا يبدون تفهمًا لطفلنا الخاص أو يتجاوبون معهم. لكن تذكر، إذا كان هؤلاء الأقارب لا يعيشون مع طفلنا فإنهم لن يستطيعوا (فهم) الأمر. عندما نصطحب أطفالنا لزيارة أقاربنا في العطلات أو المناسبات يمكننا أن نرسل لهم رسالة إلكترونية تبين لهم ما الذي يمكنهم أن يقوموا به لجعل الزيارة مريحة لنا ولأطفالنا، ويمكننا أن نغتنم هذه المناسبة لنبين السبب وراء كون الأصوات العالية مشكلة، أو نخبر كل شخص عن الجواب الذي يحب طفلنا أن يسمعه عندما يسأل السؤال نفسه مرة تلو الأخرى، وبهذه الطريقة فإننا نرتب الأمور بما فيه مصلحة طفلنا.
التفكير في أن الأنشطة يجب أن تحدث خارج المنزل
نحن نعرف أن أطفال طيف التوحُّد يحسنون التصرف أفضل دائمًا عندما لا يخضعون لفرط الإثارة من الأضواء والأصوات والروائح والأحداث غير المتوقعة في العالم الخارجي؛ ولذلك نُوجِد تجارب في بيوتنا نود أن نحظى بها في الخارج، فمثلًا: بدلًا من الذهاب إلى مهرجان مسائي ذي أضواء احتفالية، يمكننا أن نضع أضواء الأعياد حول المنزل، ونطفئ أنوار المنزل، ونشغل موسيقا العيد بصوت هادئ. قد يقلق بعضنا من كوننا نحرم أطفالنا من تجربة بهجة العيد، ولكن تذكر أنه عندما لا يستطيع أطفالنا هضم التجربة، فإنهم لا يشعرون بالبهجة التي نريدها لهم، على أي حال. وهذا هو السبب، إذا ما استطعنا أن نوجد نسخًا معدلة مما يحدث في الخارج، فإن أطفالنا سيستمتعون بالتجربة، ومن ثم فإننا نمنح أطفالن...
399 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2014
181 people are currently reading
736 people want to read
About the author
Raun K. Kaufman
3 books14 followersAs a boy, Raun K. Kaufman was diagnosed by multiple experts as severely autistic, with an IQ below 30, and destined to spend his life in an institution. Years later, Raun graduated with a degree in Biomedical Ethics from the Ivy League’s Brown University and has become a passionate and articulate spokesperson for the Autism community. Raun K. Kaufman is now Director of Global Education of the Autism Treatment Center of America™.
So what happened?
Thanks to The Son-Rise Program®, an incredible program his parents created, Raun experienced a full recovery from Autism. In Autism Breakthrough: The Groundbreaking Method That Has Helped Families All Over The World, Kaufman presents the ground-breaking principles behind the program that helped him, and so many other families with special children. Kaufman explains that Autism is frequently misunderstood as a behavioral disorder when in fact it is a social relational disorder. He explains what it feels like to be autistic, and shows how and why The Son-Rise Program, which focuses on the parent-child connection, works. And Kaufman offers clear, practical strategies for working with children that readers can apply immediately—in some cases,parents see a change in their children in as little as one day. Autism Breakthrough makes available for the first time in book form the principles and practical applications of The Son-Rise Program
So what happened?
Thanks to The Son-Rise Program®, an incredible program his parents created, Raun experienced a full recovery from Autism. In Autism Breakthrough: The Groundbreaking Method That Has Helped Families All Over The World, Kaufman presents the ground-breaking principles behind the program that helped him, and so many other families with special children. Kaufman explains that Autism is frequently misunderstood as a behavioral disorder when in fact it is a social relational disorder. He explains what it feels like to be autistic, and shows how and why The Son-Rise Program, which focuses on the parent-child connection, works. And Kaufman offers clear, practical strategies for working with children that readers can apply immediately—in some cases,parents see a change in their children in as little as one day. Autism Breakthrough makes available for the first time in book form the principles and practical applications of The Son-Rise Program
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May 22, 2014
I'm pretty split about this book. I do like the format and I think the suggestions for how to help children with autism are spot-on. However, I was really turned off by the beginning.
The author claims to have had severe autism as a child, but "recovered" from it with the help of his parents. If he had mild autistic tendencies, I could believe that he recovered from autism, but I find it very hard to believe that someone who was severely autistic can overcome it. He claims that the methods in this book can help cure children with autism, as if autism is something that needs to be cured. I do believe children can make tremendous progress with these methods, but autism is a lifelong disorder and cannot be cured. Why do people want to cure autism? We don't think that kids with CP or Down Syndrome need to be "cured" because we know that they are lifelong disorders. I know kids with autism and they are some of the sweetest, most lovable children. Why do they need to be "fixed?" They are perfect just the way they are. The author knows that parents of autistic kids love their children no matter what. That's great, but why would they want to get rid of who they are if they love them the way they are?
Anyways, rant over. I really liked the methods in this book, but I found issues with Kaufman's beliefs about recovery from autism.
The author claims to have had severe autism as a child, but "recovered" from it with the help of his parents. If he had mild autistic tendencies, I could believe that he recovered from autism, but I find it very hard to believe that someone who was severely autistic can overcome it. He claims that the methods in this book can help cure children with autism, as if autism is something that needs to be cured. I do believe children can make tremendous progress with these methods, but autism is a lifelong disorder and cannot be cured. Why do people want to cure autism? We don't think that kids with CP or Down Syndrome need to be "cured" because we know that they are lifelong disorders. I know kids with autism and they are some of the sweetest, most lovable children. Why do they need to be "fixed?" They are perfect just the way they are. The author knows that parents of autistic kids love their children no matter what. That's great, but why would they want to get rid of who they are if they love them the way they are?
Anyways, rant over. I really liked the methods in this book, but I found issues with Kaufman's beliefs about recovery from autism.
November 2, 2019
"إن السبب الوحيد لقدرتي على الكتابة لكم اليوم هو إيمان والديّ بي عندما لم يؤمن بي أحد على سطح الأرض؛ ولذلك استمروا في الإيمان بطفلكم دون اعتذار، ولكم كامل الحق للأمل فيه، ورؤية إمكاناته، والرغبة في تحقيق المزيد له."
راون كوفمان كاتب هذا الكتاب كان طفلاً متوحّداً ولكن بعدم استسلام والديه ودعمهم لطفلهم وبذل كل ما يقدران عليه من جهد استطاع راون أن يُشفى تماماً من التوحّد، ومع والديه وشقيقته وضعوا برنامجاً منزلياً لعلاج التوحّد: Son-rise.
لم أكن أعلم الكثير عن طيف التوحّد أو عن متلازمة أسبرجر، أو حتى عن إمكانية الشفاء التام أو الاقتراب من الشفاء في حالات كثيرة.
كتاب ممتاز موجّه لعامة الناس، حتى لمن ليس لديهم أطفال مصابون بالتوحّد. يوضّح لنا كيف نتعامل كآباء ومربين مع الطفل المصاب بالتوحّد، وقصص شفاء وتعافٍ مُلهمة ومهمة. كقصة الكاتب نفسه.
وأشيد بترجمة الكتاب الممتازة وممتنة جداً لوجود كتاب كهذا متوفر للقارىء العربي.
وعلى هامش قرائتي للكتاب، شاهدت فيلم Temple Grandin، عن حياة عاملة الحيوان الأمريكية تمبل جراندين، المصابة بالتوّحد. فيلم بديع يستحق المشاهدة كذلك.
...
March 29, 2014
I was given a copy of this book from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
As a therapist, I find these kinds of books fascinating. This was no exception. Raun K. Kaufman's parents were told that he had an IQ of 30 and a o% chance of ever speaking. He was diagnosed with autism. Now, because of a program that his parents used with him, he exhibits no autistic tendencies...in fact he wrote this book!
What I liked: The book is written in a conversation style with stories about real people and how the son-rise program has benefited real people. It's easy to follow with practical, concrete advice. This is really a must read for any parent or therapist or teacher of kids on the spectrum!
As a therapist, I find these kinds of books fascinating. This was no exception. Raun K. Kaufman's parents were told that he had an IQ of 30 and a o% chance of ever speaking. He was diagnosed with autism. Now, because of a program that his parents used with him, he exhibits no autistic tendencies...in fact he wrote this book!
What I liked: The book is written in a conversation style with stories about real people and how the son-rise program has benefited real people. It's easy to follow with practical, concrete advice. This is really a must read for any parent or therapist or teacher of kids on the spectrum!
November 3, 2019
عرفت هذا الكتاب عن طريق أحد أعمامي، وهو من قام بترجمة الكتاب. وقد دفعني ذلك إلى ترجمة كتاب وقصة. على أي حال فإن هذا الكتاب بقي على "الرف" لمدة وطويلة، وحان وقت قرائته الآن.
على الرغم من أنني لا أعاني من التوحد ولم أعرف أو أصادف أحدًا عانى من التوحد إلا أن فكرة الكتاب جذبت انتباهي وشدتني كثيرًا.
الكتاب يقترح طريقة مختلفة عن الطريقة التقليدية لمعالجة التوحد، وهنا مكمن المتعة والإبداع. كما يجب ذكر أن الكاتب عانى من التوحد وتعافى منه، الأمر الذي يجعل الكتاب شيقًا ومفيدًا.
أكثر ما قد يحبه أي شخص في هذا الكتاب هو أنه يبدأ من تغيير طريقة تفكير أهل الشخص المصاب بالتوحد ومن ثم يقترح طريقة مغايرة لمقاربة الطفل وبعد ذلك رحلة تطوير قدرته على التفاع، وذلك كما سترون عندما تقرؤون الكتاب
لابد من ذكر حقيقة أن الكاتب ربط طريقته بأبحاث علمية ولكنه وبنفس الوقت ذكر مواطن الضعف ومواطن الحاجة لإجراء مزيد من الدراسات
الكتاب جيد ويمكن اعتبار قرائته كنظرة على عالم مختلف ولكنه متميز ولكننا بنفس الوقت قد لا نراه كل يوم
على الرغم من أنني لا أعاني من التوحد ولم أعرف أو أصادف أحدًا عانى من التوحد إلا أن فكرة الكتاب جذبت انتباهي وشدتني كثيرًا.
الكتاب يقترح طريقة مختلفة عن الطريقة التقليدية لمعالجة التوحد، وهنا مكمن المتعة والإبداع. كما يجب ذكر أن الكاتب عانى من التوحد وتعافى منه، الأمر الذي يجعل الكتاب شيقًا ومفيدًا.
أكثر ما قد يحبه أي شخص في هذا الكتاب هو أنه يبدأ من تغيير طريقة تفكير أهل الشخص المصاب بالتوحد ومن ثم يقترح طريقة مغايرة لمقاربة الطفل وبعد ذلك رحلة تطوير قدرته على التفاع، وذلك كما سترون عندما تقرؤون الكتاب
لابد من ذكر حقيقة أن الكاتب ربط طريقته بأبحاث علمية ولكنه وبنفس الوقت ذكر مواطن الضعف ومواطن الحاجة لإجراء مزيد من الدراسات
الكتاب جيد ويمكن اعتبار قرائته كنظرة على عالم مختلف ولكنه متميز ولكننا بنفس الوقت قد لا نراه كل يوم
January 28, 2015
I "read" this via audio book but it took a short time to get into the author's voice and speech pattern. I am so glad I did! By the time I was a couple of chapters in, I was so excited to learn techniques and strategies for my son. Plus there is a whole lot of encouragement for the parents. I am going to buy this book but I'm thinking about buying the audio version as well. It was that good!
May 30, 2015
This guy is an amazing writer. I mean this as a compliment when I say that I feel he could sell me anything. I know that is usually said of sleazy salesmen, but in this case I say that because the author knows that what he has got is the real thing and it really works better than the alternatives, and he can explain that in a simple, clear way. He makes it logical and obvious. It makes me want to read more by this author.
I read this because I have son who was recently diagnosed with Asperger's. That is only a small portion of Autism, so it only got one chapter of coverage in this book, but I knew that going into the book. we found it at the library, but part-way through the book we bought it so we could keep it and mark it up with notes.
The approach in this book goes against commonly accepted thinking, but the author explains how and why it works better and backs it up with real life success stories and scientific research. I am convinced that the plan here works well, and I am anxious to use it with my son.
I don't give out 5 star ratings very much, but this book easily earned it. The only down side is that it did seem to make the same point over and over, but I think that was necessary to drive it home. I encourage everyone who has someone close to them with autism to read this book and use the methods that it teaches.
I read this because I have son who was recently diagnosed with Asperger's. That is only a small portion of Autism, so it only got one chapter of coverage in this book, but I knew that going into the book. we found it at the library, but part-way through the book we bought it so we could keep it and mark it up with notes.
The approach in this book goes against commonly accepted thinking, but the author explains how and why it works better and backs it up with real life success stories and scientific research. I am convinced that the plan here works well, and I am anxious to use it with my son.
I don't give out 5 star ratings very much, but this book easily earned it. The only down side is that it did seem to make the same point over and over, but I think that was necessary to drive it home. I encourage everyone who has someone close to them with autism to read this book and use the methods that it teaches.
October 21, 2014
Before I review the book, a caveat:
I was thrilled to see a book written by Raun Kaufman. He doesn't know it, but his story changed the trajectory of my life 25+ years ago. I was in my bedroom, watching my black and white tv, when a movie came on that left me captivated, intrigued and with the absolute knowledge that I had just witnessed what I was meant to do with my life.. to work with autistic children. From that moment until I had my own children a number of years later, I read everything I could on the topic, volunteered throughout my college years at the lab school on campus, and worked with special needs children. I never forgot the story of Raun and the Son Rise program and periodically would look him and his family up online to follow their progress.
That being said, I will give the book as unbiased a review as I can.
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Raun Kaufman uses this book as a vehicle to delineate the Son Rise program for home use. He manages to convey the information in an approachable way, with good humor and interesting examples. He doesn't hesitate to point out that it can be a challenge but offers plenty of encouragement and many, many ideas along the way. Each chapter closes with the points outlined and examples of ways to utilize each point in the home program.
My gut instinct is that this program would work for every child. Would EVERY child be "recoverable" to the point of being called "neurotypical?" I doubt it. But then again, I don't think there was EVER a time in human history in which all persons were neurotypical. Don't we all remember that "hermit" or this guy who's "a little left of center" or "marches to his drummer?" I think the range for "normal" has gotten more narrow and that's not necessarily a good thing. Some diversity benefits all of us! That being said, I absolutely think that every person, every child and every human being, can benefit from being loved and accepted and met where they are. What a beautiful, beautiful concept.
I don't know how the Son Rise program could/would work if it were implemented in any way other than full time. For example, I don't know how a child could go to preschool and also do this program. After all, most programs for children with autism would follow TEACHH or ABA or whatever the program is. So I'm guessing this would have to fall in the category of going all in, or not at all. I could be wrong about that. Maybe Raun or someone from Option will read this and weigh in with a comment.
I think very highly of the Kaufman family and the Son Rise program/ Option Institute. I realize there has been controversy regarding it and probably always will be. Nonetheless, I've always wanted to go visit and really hope I get there someday.
If you have an autistic child, are related to one, or know someone with an autistic person in their family, this is a great book to read.
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I read an ARC of this book through NetGalley. It was given to me free in exchange for an honest review.
October 9, 2014
Describes in great detail the methods used at a center in Massachusetts where he works, and that were developed initially by his parents in "curing" author's autism. Emphasis on autism as a social-relational disorder. Lots of positive anecdotes from their workshops and such, and most or all sounded very reasonable (setting aside a "focus room" in the home with no electronics for interactions in which the child gets to be in control, but where getting what they want (e.g., a particular toy) requires social communication). He takes considerable pains to differentiate it from applied behavior analysis, though some of the recommendations (expressing great enthusiasm when the child makes eye contact or speaks in a way that shows interest in others.....ignoring tantrums and pretending not to understand what s/he wants) were totally consistent with ABA.
Kind of disappointing to get to the end and realize that this program they've been using for decades and that has received this or that "best therapy" award etc. has such a slim empirical basis. He reproduces in full a review article showing that various principles (e.g., "create an optimal physical learning environment") they believe the program instantiates are plausible, but the actual database of controlled studies on the program itself appears to consist entirely of a study of 6 kids aged 4-7 getting the program for 5 days (40 hrs. intervention) vs. 6 controls with autism, and measured immediately after treatment the experimental group was more engaged in a test social task. That's terrific, but a long way from showing that the program has lasting curative effects for all ages, all along autism spectrum, that the diet recommendations in the book are helpful, etc.
In sum, I think if I had a child on the spectrum, I'd get something from reading this book -- positive message about role of parent in working with the kid, good practical advice about finding an MD who understands your child, etc. etc. But it might have been preferable to tone down the marketing claims starting with the title.
Kind of disappointing to get to the end and realize that this program they've been using for decades and that has received this or that "best therapy" award etc. has such a slim empirical basis. He reproduces in full a review article showing that various principles (e.g., "create an optimal physical learning environment") they believe the program instantiates are plausible, but the actual database of controlled studies on the program itself appears to consist entirely of a study of 6 kids aged 4-7 getting the program for 5 days (40 hrs. intervention) vs. 6 controls with autism, and measured immediately after treatment the experimental group was more engaged in a test social task. That's terrific, but a long way from showing that the program has lasting curative effects for all ages, all along autism spectrum, that the diet recommendations in the book are helpful, etc.
In sum, I think if I had a child on the spectrum, I'd get something from reading this book -- positive message about role of parent in working with the kid, good practical advice about finding an MD who understands your child, etc. etc. But it might have been preferable to tone down the marketing claims starting with the title.
April 11, 2014
I thought this book was very interesting, insightful, and thoughtful. The author was diagnosed with autism at an early age and Son-Rise method, which is joining the child in their world, helped Raun to overcome autism. In other words, instead of stopping or punishing the behavior, join in the behavior with the child. In the book, Raun goes more in depth with this topic, which is the cornerstone of the Son-Rise method, developed by his parents. Raun talks about the fact that autism is not a behavioral disorder, it is a social-relationship disorder and that overcoming autism is not about getting your child to change his behaviors.
Raun goes on to say that every autistic behavior your child exhibits is a symptom and that trying to stop these behaviors does not address the actual autism but only serves to seriously disrupt the trust and relationship between you and your child. I agree 100% with that assessment. Being a mom to a child with autism, I’ve learned the hard way that taking away or trying to change the behaviors that are deemed by society as “not normal” only hurt my son. The behaviors he exhibits, clapping his hands, and making high-pitched noises make him happy. Why would you want to take away your child’s happiness just because “society” says it is wrong?
The book is full of information, analogies, true stories, suggestions, additional resources, everything you could want or need. There is also a chapter about Asperger’s Syndrome as well. While I am still skeptical about the idea of “curing” autism, I respect the author and the book. I learned a lot and it gave me several ideas I can try with my son. We all know that every autistic child is different but there are several chapters with different approaches to reaching your child that I think would be helpful for any parent with autism.
A special thank you to the publisher for allowing me to read the book in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own.
Raun goes on to say that every autistic behavior your child exhibits is a symptom and that trying to stop these behaviors does not address the actual autism but only serves to seriously disrupt the trust and relationship between you and your child. I agree 100% with that assessment. Being a mom to a child with autism, I’ve learned the hard way that taking away or trying to change the behaviors that are deemed by society as “not normal” only hurt my son. The behaviors he exhibits, clapping his hands, and making high-pitched noises make him happy. Why would you want to take away your child’s happiness just because “society” says it is wrong?
The book is full of information, analogies, true stories, suggestions, additional resources, everything you could want or need. There is also a chapter about Asperger’s Syndrome as well. While I am still skeptical about the idea of “curing” autism, I respect the author and the book. I learned a lot and it gave me several ideas I can try with my son. We all know that every autistic child is different but there are several chapters with different approaches to reaching your child that I think would be helpful for any parent with autism.
A special thank you to the publisher for allowing me to read the book in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own.
May 14, 2021
This book gives a fascinating account of one man's experience having profound autism as a child and how his parents helped him (people can argue about the possibility and ethics of using the word cure so I'll leave it at that but he is now a successful working father who does not identify as having autism). I especially appreciated his insight into how they joined his world instead of trying to force him into theirs, and how effective that was in forming a connection and making a path towards joining them. The methods seem immensely empathetic, nurturing, and logical. It does read like an ad for his family's facility at times but that's pretty understandable given the fact that he works there too and believes so strongly in it.
June 23, 2014
I found the words 'recovery' too insulting. My daughter isn't diseased nor needs a cure. Having said that, not one kid is the same on the spectrum. There are many ways to help behaviors and developmental delays. We used ABA for the past few years. It has done wonders for my girl. Not all ABA is the same. Parents need to do their research.
Read
March 2, 2017The strategies were easy to understand. The only problem I have is the difficulty with which to implement these techniques optimally. Regardless, the ideas in this book regarding autism were very welcome eye-openers.
July 26, 2016
When the book blurb reads, “This is the book that parents, professionals and educators of children with Autism have always wanted!” the book has a great deal to live up to and guess what, this one really does live up to the hype. I am an educator who has taught Autistic children in the regular classroom and I am a parent of a recently diagnosed child with Autism/Asperger’s Syndrome (February 2014), and I can tell you based on my research and reading on the topic this book is one of the best I have read on the topic to date. I say this after just having finished Tony Attwood’s The Complete Guide to Autism. Please keep in mind that Mr. Attwood is consider one of the leading Autism gurus or experts, if you will. What book am I referencing? Answer: Autism Breakthrough: The Groundbreaking Method That Has Helped Families All Over The World by Raun K. Kaufman.
Let me start by saying that Raun K. Kaufman confesses to having experienced a full recovery from Autism and let me add that this proclamation is somewhat controversial, but considering that it wasn't until 1980 that Autism was even on the research radar whose to say that it can’t be cured. I suggest laying aside the controversy that surrounds Kaufman’s Son Rise Program/ Option Institute and focus instead on the useful information that is to be discerned inside Autism Breakthrough. Information that parents, professionals and educators of children with Autism can use to help a child who suffers from Autism. This book is a tool for adults who chose to look at an Autistic child and, “...see possibilities not deficiencies,” and for those who want to create a truly safe environment where their child can grow and reach his or her full potential.
Again as an educator and parent, I highly recommend this book to anyone wishing to understand and help those who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Thank you Net Galley and St. Martin's Press for the Advance Reader’s Copy of Autism Breakthrough: The Groundbreaking Method That Has Helped Families All Over The World by Raun K. Kaufman.
Let me start by saying that Raun K. Kaufman confesses to having experienced a full recovery from Autism and let me add that this proclamation is somewhat controversial, but considering that it wasn't until 1980 that Autism was even on the research radar whose to say that it can’t be cured. I suggest laying aside the controversy that surrounds Kaufman’s Son Rise Program/ Option Institute and focus instead on the useful information that is to be discerned inside Autism Breakthrough. Information that parents, professionals and educators of children with Autism can use to help a child who suffers from Autism. This book is a tool for adults who chose to look at an Autistic child and, “...see possibilities not deficiencies,” and for those who want to create a truly safe environment where their child can grow and reach his or her full potential.
Again as an educator and parent, I highly recommend this book to anyone wishing to understand and help those who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Thank you Net Galley and St. Martin's Press for the Advance Reader’s Copy of Autism Breakthrough: The Groundbreaking Method That Has Helped Families All Over The World by Raun K. Kaufman.
August 6, 2014
I bought Autism Breakthrough for our OT. She told me at my son Campbell's last appointment that, because she was reading Autism Breakthrough, she intentionally let Campbell guide their session, and she had a great response from him. When he started making funky clicking noises with his mouth in the middle of their session, instead of encouraging him to stop so they could continue, she completely switched gears, dropped her agenda, joined him in clicking and they became 'clocks' - which he loved! And while they were clocks, she got my completely writing-averse child to draw a clock, write in all the numbers, decorate the clock and write out some related comments! Anyway... she was delighted. To see the book's principles in action (knowing it's the opposite of what we've been taught to do for so many years - and, honestly, the opposite of what I might innately do anyway)... and then see the results so clearly, so tangibly and - in some cases - even so immediately... well, it's just kind of blowing my head right off my neck.
March 12, 2018
With a prevalence of 20% of children having ADHD in USA it's not impossible to imagine they don't diagnose Autism very thorough.
The book clearly shows:
1. Premature diagnostics is idiotic.
2. Children (in this book) with similar temporary problems do get a lot of help when you educate parents to this extent.
3. It also shows that the writer (and all involved) is completely identified in the myth that they had Autism.
It maybe shows:
1. That the money involved in their business makes it completely impossible to critizise. Who cares?! People get help.
It might help:
1. Scientists and clinicians to make better diagnoses in the future, and exclude some criterion.
2. Defining other diagnoses
3. Take time as factor and mostly of all sociocultural factors in giving the autism diagnosis.
The book clearly shows:
1. Premature diagnostics is idiotic.
2. Children (in this book) with similar temporary problems do get a lot of help when you educate parents to this extent.
3. It also shows that the writer (and all involved) is completely identified in the myth that they had Autism.
It maybe shows:
1. That the money involved in their business makes it completely impossible to critizise. Who cares?! People get help.
It might help:
1. Scientists and clinicians to make better diagnoses in the future, and exclude some criterion.
2. Defining other diagnoses
3. Take time as factor and mostly of all sociocultural factors in giving the autism diagnosis.
May 16, 2014
My brother has autism. Ever since we've started this program it's only been helping him. I really love how Kaufman writes in a simple easy to understand way. Anyone can write something in a convoluted complicated manner but only the greats can simplify (without too much over simplifying.) He describes everything really well...my brother to a tee! It's clear Kaufman knows what he's talking about. He's an absolute inspiration. Anyone with a child, sibling or family member with autism should buy this book!
May 10, 2015
This book has some useful strategies that parents can use with their kids with autism. However, I think that this book tries to market for Son-Rise Model, and tries to say that this model is the cure for autism!. The book kinda gives parents some false hopes. And definitely represents ABA therapy as not effective, which is not accurate by any means..!
February 20, 2017
Every parent of autistic child should read it.
November 5, 2023
Very interesting read. You have to read it from the perspective and understanding of the time that it was written but it's a very uplifting book about hope, change and not giving up.
May 21, 2024
I thought this was a fascinating story and found a lot of helpful ideas to try with my son.
June 17, 2024
This book was such a GREAT read ! Lots of great information on a different approach on autism treatment.
August 5, 2017
Some good ideas put forward here worth a read for that alone.
February 8, 2018
Hope for all dealing with Autism Spectrum Disorder
It is very comforting to have a book that understands the psychological aspects of being both a child on the spectrum as well as a motivated caregiver later in life. This unique perspective works wonders for anyone trying to understand an afflicted child’s world. I appreciate greatly the guidance and stories from the Son-Rise program. It provides a much needed and refreshing alternative to the well-known ABA therapy program. The most important thing that society needs to change is attitudes towards this condition and know that it is definitely not Alice sentence. Our children are capable of so much more only if we adopt the right attitudes in working together to understand their sensibilities. Only by engaging with them in this manner will we get lifelong and sustainable improvements against Autism in general. I find it so interesting that modern doctors are so quick to pass judgement and label our misunderstood children however they are not interested in helping to find the root cause of an obvious health problem.
A must read for any forward thinking person looking for better ways to contribute to making the future lives of our marginalized kids a better place.
It is very comforting to have a book that understands the psychological aspects of being both a child on the spectrum as well as a motivated caregiver later in life. This unique perspective works wonders for anyone trying to understand an afflicted child’s world. I appreciate greatly the guidance and stories from the Son-Rise program. It provides a much needed and refreshing alternative to the well-known ABA therapy program. The most important thing that society needs to change is attitudes towards this condition and know that it is definitely not Alice sentence. Our children are capable of so much more only if we adopt the right attitudes in working together to understand their sensibilities. Only by engaging with them in this manner will we get lifelong and sustainable improvements against Autism in general. I find it so interesting that modern doctors are so quick to pass judgement and label our misunderstood children however they are not interested in helping to find the root cause of an obvious health problem.
A must read for any forward thinking person looking for better ways to contribute to making the future lives of our marginalized kids a better place.
September 14, 2016
This book details the treatment fundamentals of the Son-Rise Program, which is used at the Autism Treatment Center of America. Raun, the author, is so upbeat and positive, it is impossible to resist his optimism. I know there are a lot of skeptics who flat out deny this treatment works (to the extent that they claim Raun is actually institutionalized...which Raun claims to be greatly exaggerated), but frankly, so much of the ideas he puts forth seem to be simple common sense way of parenting ANY child, not simply one with autism.
I actually got a lot of insight into myself reading this. I know autism and anxiety & OCD actually have some similarities (especially with regards to my brother and I and our tendencies towards self-harm). So much of it hinges upon fight-or-flight chemicals, over-stimulation, lack of control over situations, and lack of communication skills. All of those can apply to me, with my anxiety & OCD, AND with my brother and his autism.
If this treatment even helps just bridge a gap with your child, where is the harm in trying it??
I actually got a lot of insight into myself reading this. I know autism and anxiety & OCD actually have some similarities (especially with regards to my brother and I and our tendencies towards self-harm). So much of it hinges upon fight-or-flight chemicals, over-stimulation, lack of control over situations, and lack of communication skills. All of those can apply to me, with my anxiety & OCD, AND with my brother and his autism.
If this treatment even helps just bridge a gap with your child, where is the harm in trying it??
January 28, 2020
I honestly found this book very helpful. I'm an ABA therapist myself, and while he doesn't advocate for ABA, and highlights the differences, I find many of these practices are not the opposite and I can use them to make myself a better therapist. This is a wonderful place for parents to start. It teaches practical strategies, attitude, and even marriage counseling for parents of those on the spectrum. It has many anecdotes of evidence of the Son-Rise program that are incredibly encouraging. Honestly, it was really eye-opening! The only thing I realize he is criticized for is that he talks about "curing" his autism and "back when I was autistic." I think he has a good point though, that if we can cure and reverse cancer, why not autism? But he doesn't treat autism as the enemy; rather, he advocates for loving your child--even and especially the autistic part--for all that he or she is, and helping them become better communicators.
April 21, 2016
We do not have the Son-Rise program in Australia (that I am aware of), so reading this book gave me insight into another form of treatment for Autism. The author gives you a great overview of the fundamentals of The Son-Rise Program with opportunities at the end of each chapter to complete an activity to help cement your understanding of the main task of each chapter. The author also provides links to supplementary resources which is always a boon. The book is well written and the program is interesting. Is it a "cure" as it is touted, I don't believe so however I have recommended it to a number of my clients to read. *** I was provided with a free copy of this book to give my honest review and opinion. ***
October 28, 2018
This is an intense and amazing look at a mind that was diagnosed with autism. Once one grasps that--though the meat is the same for everybody--the squishy digital mind that is created is different and unique for each person, afflicted with ASD or not. Thus, the use of the word "afflicted" is really a misnomer, as who are we to say what is a correct brain and what is not.
Fascinating read. Should be followed with his father's two books named "Son Rise".
Fascinating read. Should be followed with his father's two books named "Son Rise".
April 28, 2014
[I apologize the links are not present. If you wish to follow the links, visit the original post at my blog: http://specialeducationteacher.typepa...]
Title: Autism Breakthrough
Author: Raun K Kaufman
Publisher: St Martin's Press
Year: 204
Pages: 341 (e-book)
Autism Treatment Center of America
Autism Breakthrough: Additional Content
Autism Treatment Center of America: Facebook
The Son-Rise Program: Blog
[I am required by FCC law to inform you that I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for my fair and unbiased review. I hope you feel better now.]
According to the Facts about Autism page at Autism Speaks, autism affects nearly 1 in 68 children on earth. Here are some additional stats:
Autism now affects 1 in 68 children and 1 in 42 boys
Autism prevalence figures are growing
Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.
Autism costs a family $60,000 a year on average
Boys are nearly five times more likely than girls to have autism
There is no medical detection or cure for autism
These are startling statistics and should awaken anyone who reads them to the fact that Autism is a serious medical condition that desperately needs to be addressed from the highest levels of authority to the lowest, in churches, synagogues and mosques, and in nuclear and extended families. To put a fine point on this: as someone who works with students who have an autism spectrum disorder, I welcome research, interventions, and ideas from any place I can get them.
These statistics are even more startling when the field is narrowed to the 1 in 42 boys and boys are 5 times more likely than girls to have autism. It seems as though every day there is a new statistic appearing in the news about autism. So I'm not sure, honestly, what to do with some of the information that I, as a trained professional, read on a daily basis. In the statistics above, Autism Speaks states fairly confidently that 'there is no medical detection or cure for autism.' Yet on page two of Autism Breakthrough Kaufman states unequivocally: "Children on the autism spectrum are capable of great change including recovery" (2).
So what is one to do with such disparate points of view? Is it a matter of merely splitting the hair of difference between the words 'recovery' and 'cure'? Is it merely a matter of having super-human parents who love their children into some sort of neurotypical wholeness? Is it merely a matter of having enough faith to distrust what medical science has told us, what scholars (in the sense of peer-reviewed writing) have written to us, and what most advocacy groups teach us about autism spectrum disorders and going off in direct and absolute contravention of these specialists to do our own thing--a sort of 'damn the torpedoes' kind of approach?
These are some of the thoughts that were swirling around in my head by the time I finished reading Autism Breakthrough. Another significant collection of thoughts I had was this: Suppose I am a parent whose child has just been diagnosed with an ASD. Suppose I have no idea what to do, where to go, or what steps to take? Suppose I have two sets of information in my hands. One set of information says that my child can recover, the other states it is a lifelong condition. One set of information is from the collected works of established medical science, the other set is from an outlier. One set gives me hope and so does the other. What on earth am I supposed to do?
Here, I think, is the crux of the issue with Autism Breakthrough: I think there is a huge difference between selling a set of interventions and selling a cure (or recovery). At the end of the day, I have no problem accepting that what is written in this book might very well be a set of outstanding interventions for children (or adults) on the Autism Spectrum Disorder. As I noted above: I work with students on the ASD every single day and I happily welcome any and all interventions that might help my students and/or their families. Nevertheless, I think it is somewhat irresponsible to suggest that what is contained within the book could lead to a 'recovery' or a 'cure.' I think it's even worse when said 'recovery' is set over and against accepted, evidence based practices such as applied behavior analysis. There are many, many interventions that may prove helpful to families facing an autism diagnosis and I think each family will have to explore these options and decide, along with their doctor, which interventions are appropriate for their situation.
Now, on to a couple of finer points of criticism and praise.
First, there is undoubtedly a level of enthusiasm in this book that stands in stark contrast with what one normally reads concerning autism. If points could be awarded based on enthusiasm alone, I would rate this book very highly. The last chapter of the book deals with attitude and I happen to agree that attitude is extremely important when dealing with any disability. The author of the book works very hard to make certain that people are given hope and encouragement in the face of what might otherwise be devastating news from a doctor. I tell my parents this all the time: have hope! We will work through this difficulty together.
Second, at the end of every chapter there are links to additional online resources. There are additional papers, charts, and resources that will provide extremely helpful to the family needing to track behaviors or 'stims' or other issues their child may be experiencing. Collecting data is a significant factor when determining interventions for children and I found the extra resources helpful and appropriate.
Third, there is an extensive resource list at the end of the book that I also found helpful--especially if, like me, one wants to do additional research or quantify the author's points. Additionally, there is a rather long 'academic' paper at the end if parents or professionals wish to verify the validity of the author's assertions by examining peer-reviewed research. I appreciated the resource list and the paper, but I found it disappointing that there were no footnotes or end notes contained within the book itself. Anecdotes are fine, but it seems to me that having one's work verified, having anecdotes verified, is extremely important when dealing with people's lives. (I get that it is a popular work and that bulking it up with footnotes or end notes might not be the easiest thing to do, but this is offered to us as a serious work, about a serious condition, and is purporting that certain interventions might possibly lead to a recovery. In my opinion, references to validate such assertions, even the anecdotal assertions, should be provided.)
Now for a couple of minor criticisms--aside from what I have already mentioned in the above sections.
First, as noted above, autism spectrum disorders affect boys nearly five times more than girls, yet throughout this book the author persisted in using feminine pronouns (she, her) when talking about children. It's a small thing, but it was extremely annoying for precisely that point: autism affects more boys than girls. Yes, we live in a world where we need to be sensitive to everyone's concerns, but I just wonder who the author was writing to? In this respect, it's not a small thing. If the majority of children on the AS are males, then stick with using pronouns that are appropriate to the population being addressed.
Second, throughout the book the author continually referred to autism as a 'social-relational disorder' (33: "What is incredible is not that we would use this model, but that it is still controversial to use it with children whose main challenge is creating relationships!" 108, etc). Defining autism as merely an inability to socialize or relate seems to me a disservice to those who are actually on the autism spectrum. I could not find autism defined as a social-relational disorder anywhere except this book. I am no way denying that social-relational issues are part of the peculiarity of autism, but I am saying that it is not the defining characteristic of autism. Defining an autism spectrum disorder as merely a social-relational disorder seems to deny the other salient points that medical research has brought to our attention concerning ASD (I would gladly stand corrected if someone directs me to such a definition in a recognized medical, behavioral, psychological peer-reviewed journal.) If autism is merely a problem creating relationships then I am certain the interventions will be helpful in solving some of those difficulties, but I am skeptical that it will help with all the other issues that science, and experience, has told us are neurological and/or biological. (The Autism Speaks website notes: "ASD can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. Some persons with ASD excel in visual skills, music, math and art." Clearly we are dealing with more that mere social-relational issues.)
As far as an intervention is concerned, I am sure the Son-Rise Program (the catalyst behind the writing of this book) is effective for some children and/or adults. There are a lot of positive and encouraging words and anecdotes contained in the book which makes the book not only an easy read, but also an uplifting book. Personally, I think some of the interventions are wonderfully conceived--I especially like the idea of 'joining' and plan to implement it, to the extent that I can, in my classroom. I absolutely agree with the idea that we have to persist in our efforts, believe in our children, love our children deeply, a 'nonjudgmental and welcoming attitude' (249), provide them with everything they need (including, if a doctor deems it healthy and necessary, dietary restrictions), and a generally positive and safe environment where they can grow, be themselves without fear, and develop. I also agree that how we do things matters to: "We remain married to the idea that, in the therapeutic and educational setting, the only thing that matters is what we do, rather than how we do it" (254). Amen. Attitude matters--at home and in the classroom; bank on it.
I'm sure there is more to say--positively and negatively--about the book itself. I am also sure that someone is going to say it, somewhere, and at some point. My overall impression of the book is very simply this: If you have met one person on the autism spectrum, you have done just that: you have met one person. I suppose we could say that for as many people that there are on the Spectrum there might be developed an intervention. My point is that these interventions might work very well for some, they might not work for all. As with all interventions--and I think it is unfair to disregard ABA interventions out of hand as if they have never worked--Son-Rise Program needs to be investigated by each family that wishes to consider it for use. In coordination and consultation with a licensed physician, it is important that all due diligence is done in advance before any intervention is put in place. I hope the author of Autism Breakthrough would say as much himself.
As another tool in the tool belt of interventions, I think this is a worthy volume.
4/5 stars
Title: Autism Breakthrough
Author: Raun K Kaufman
Publisher: St Martin's Press
Year: 204
Pages: 341 (e-book)
Autism Treatment Center of America
Autism Breakthrough: Additional Content
Autism Treatment Center of America: Facebook
The Son-Rise Program: Blog
[I am required by FCC law to inform you that I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for my fair and unbiased review. I hope you feel better now.]
According to the Facts about Autism page at Autism Speaks, autism affects nearly 1 in 68 children on earth. Here are some additional stats:
Autism now affects 1 in 68 children and 1 in 42 boys
Autism prevalence figures are growing
Autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S.
Autism costs a family $60,000 a year on average
Boys are nearly five times more likely than girls to have autism
There is no medical detection or cure for autism
These are startling statistics and should awaken anyone who reads them to the fact that Autism is a serious medical condition that desperately needs to be addressed from the highest levels of authority to the lowest, in churches, synagogues and mosques, and in nuclear and extended families. To put a fine point on this: as someone who works with students who have an autism spectrum disorder, I welcome research, interventions, and ideas from any place I can get them.
These statistics are even more startling when the field is narrowed to the 1 in 42 boys and boys are 5 times more likely than girls to have autism. It seems as though every day there is a new statistic appearing in the news about autism. So I'm not sure, honestly, what to do with some of the information that I, as a trained professional, read on a daily basis. In the statistics above, Autism Speaks states fairly confidently that 'there is no medical detection or cure for autism.' Yet on page two of Autism Breakthrough Kaufman states unequivocally: "Children on the autism spectrum are capable of great change including recovery" (2).
So what is one to do with such disparate points of view? Is it a matter of merely splitting the hair of difference between the words 'recovery' and 'cure'? Is it merely a matter of having super-human parents who love their children into some sort of neurotypical wholeness? Is it merely a matter of having enough faith to distrust what medical science has told us, what scholars (in the sense of peer-reviewed writing) have written to us, and what most advocacy groups teach us about autism spectrum disorders and going off in direct and absolute contravention of these specialists to do our own thing--a sort of 'damn the torpedoes' kind of approach?
These are some of the thoughts that were swirling around in my head by the time I finished reading Autism Breakthrough. Another significant collection of thoughts I had was this: Suppose I am a parent whose child has just been diagnosed with an ASD. Suppose I have no idea what to do, where to go, or what steps to take? Suppose I have two sets of information in my hands. One set of information says that my child can recover, the other states it is a lifelong condition. One set of information is from the collected works of established medical science, the other set is from an outlier. One set gives me hope and so does the other. What on earth am I supposed to do?
Here, I think, is the crux of the issue with Autism Breakthrough: I think there is a huge difference between selling a set of interventions and selling a cure (or recovery). At the end of the day, I have no problem accepting that what is written in this book might very well be a set of outstanding interventions for children (or adults) on the Autism Spectrum Disorder. As I noted above: I work with students on the ASD every single day and I happily welcome any and all interventions that might help my students and/or their families. Nevertheless, I think it is somewhat irresponsible to suggest that what is contained within the book could lead to a 'recovery' or a 'cure.' I think it's even worse when said 'recovery' is set over and against accepted, evidence based practices such as applied behavior analysis. There are many, many interventions that may prove helpful to families facing an autism diagnosis and I think each family will have to explore these options and decide, along with their doctor, which interventions are appropriate for their situation.
Now, on to a couple of finer points of criticism and praise.
First, there is undoubtedly a level of enthusiasm in this book that stands in stark contrast with what one normally reads concerning autism. If points could be awarded based on enthusiasm alone, I would rate this book very highly. The last chapter of the book deals with attitude and I happen to agree that attitude is extremely important when dealing with any disability. The author of the book works very hard to make certain that people are given hope and encouragement in the face of what might otherwise be devastating news from a doctor. I tell my parents this all the time: have hope! We will work through this difficulty together.
Second, at the end of every chapter there are links to additional online resources. There are additional papers, charts, and resources that will provide extremely helpful to the family needing to track behaviors or 'stims' or other issues their child may be experiencing. Collecting data is a significant factor when determining interventions for children and I found the extra resources helpful and appropriate.
Third, there is an extensive resource list at the end of the book that I also found helpful--especially if, like me, one wants to do additional research or quantify the author's points. Additionally, there is a rather long 'academic' paper at the end if parents or professionals wish to verify the validity of the author's assertions by examining peer-reviewed research. I appreciated the resource list and the paper, but I found it disappointing that there were no footnotes or end notes contained within the book itself. Anecdotes are fine, but it seems to me that having one's work verified, having anecdotes verified, is extremely important when dealing with people's lives. (I get that it is a popular work and that bulking it up with footnotes or end notes might not be the easiest thing to do, but this is offered to us as a serious work, about a serious condition, and is purporting that certain interventions might possibly lead to a recovery. In my opinion, references to validate such assertions, even the anecdotal assertions, should be provided.)
Now for a couple of minor criticisms--aside from what I have already mentioned in the above sections.
First, as noted above, autism spectrum disorders affect boys nearly five times more than girls, yet throughout this book the author persisted in using feminine pronouns (she, her) when talking about children. It's a small thing, but it was extremely annoying for precisely that point: autism affects more boys than girls. Yes, we live in a world where we need to be sensitive to everyone's concerns, but I just wonder who the author was writing to? In this respect, it's not a small thing. If the majority of children on the AS are males, then stick with using pronouns that are appropriate to the population being addressed.
Second, throughout the book the author continually referred to autism as a 'social-relational disorder' (33: "What is incredible is not that we would use this model, but that it is still controversial to use it with children whose main challenge is creating relationships!" 108, etc). Defining autism as merely an inability to socialize or relate seems to me a disservice to those who are actually on the autism spectrum. I could not find autism defined as a social-relational disorder anywhere except this book. I am no way denying that social-relational issues are part of the peculiarity of autism, but I am saying that it is not the defining characteristic of autism. Defining an autism spectrum disorder as merely a social-relational disorder seems to deny the other salient points that medical research has brought to our attention concerning ASD (I would gladly stand corrected if someone directs me to such a definition in a recognized medical, behavioral, psychological peer-reviewed journal.) If autism is merely a problem creating relationships then I am certain the interventions will be helpful in solving some of those difficulties, but I am skeptical that it will help with all the other issues that science, and experience, has told us are neurological and/or biological. (The Autism Speaks website notes: "ASD can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. Some persons with ASD excel in visual skills, music, math and art." Clearly we are dealing with more that mere social-relational issues.)
As far as an intervention is concerned, I am sure the Son-Rise Program (the catalyst behind the writing of this book) is effective for some children and/or adults. There are a lot of positive and encouraging words and anecdotes contained in the book which makes the book not only an easy read, but also an uplifting book. Personally, I think some of the interventions are wonderfully conceived--I especially like the idea of 'joining' and plan to implement it, to the extent that I can, in my classroom. I absolutely agree with the idea that we have to persist in our efforts, believe in our children, love our children deeply, a 'nonjudgmental and welcoming attitude' (249), provide them with everything they need (including, if a doctor deems it healthy and necessary, dietary restrictions), and a generally positive and safe environment where they can grow, be themselves without fear, and develop. I also agree that how we do things matters to: "We remain married to the idea that, in the therapeutic and educational setting, the only thing that matters is what we do, rather than how we do it" (254). Amen. Attitude matters--at home and in the classroom; bank on it.
I'm sure there is more to say--positively and negatively--about the book itself. I am also sure that someone is going to say it, somewhere, and at some point. My overall impression of the book is very simply this: If you have met one person on the autism spectrum, you have done just that: you have met one person. I suppose we could say that for as many people that there are on the Spectrum there might be developed an intervention. My point is that these interventions might work very well for some, they might not work for all. As with all interventions--and I think it is unfair to disregard ABA interventions out of hand as if they have never worked--Son-Rise Program needs to be investigated by each family that wishes to consider it for use. In coordination and consultation with a licensed physician, it is important that all due diligence is done in advance before any intervention is put in place. I hope the author of Autism Breakthrough would say as much himself.
As another tool in the tool belt of interventions, I think this is a worthy volume.
4/5 stars
February 13, 2024
This book gave me the best usable, concrete steps I could apply right away to improve my relationship with my daughter (ASD level 1). It has been a couple of months now, and the difference is night and day. Instead of screaming and throwing tantrums, she asks me for a hug or tells me in a normal volume what’s wrong. It’s amazing. It’s a game-changer. And it’s given us the breathing room for me to fall back in love with her—something we lost along the way when I was spending so much time walking on eggshells and dealing with her violent and loud outbursts.
Before reading this book, I was hoping for a quick fix—maybe medicine, psychotherapy, occupational therapy, Tomatis, diet, etc. We had tried a bunch of different approaches but none worked.
Now I realize nobody is going to do it for me. It’s up to me to build my relationship with my child, to understand where she is coming from, why she doesn’t feel safe or seen, and to solve the underlying issues that are making her life so hard that she “has” to behave in ways I don’t like.
We are both still working on it. But she trusts me now, and I love her better than ever, and we are working together to adapt her environment better to her—and her better to her environment.
Before reading this book, I was hoping for a quick fix—maybe medicine, psychotherapy, occupational therapy, Tomatis, diet, etc. We had tried a bunch of different approaches but none worked.
Now I realize nobody is going to do it for me. It’s up to me to build my relationship with my child, to understand where she is coming from, why she doesn’t feel safe or seen, and to solve the underlying issues that are making her life so hard that she “has” to behave in ways I don’t like.
We are both still working on it. But she trusts me now, and I love her better than ever, and we are working together to adapt her environment better to her—and her better to her environment.
March 20, 2024
الكتاب رائع من ناحية تكنيكات وطرق التعامل مع اطفال ذوي التوحد، ارى انها مفيدة جداً لتوثيق العلاقة بين المربين و الطفل التوحدي كطريقة الانضمام وغيرها، ولكن مسألة الشفاء التام من التوحد الشديد لو برهن عليها الكاتب بأمثله كثيرة يستحيل ان اصدق، لان التوحد مرض نمائي عصبي لو ان الشفاء التام فعلاً لعمم هذا المنهج على العالم اجمع ولم نرى هذا الازدياد من اطفال ذوي التوحد في السنوات الاخيرة، بالاضافة الى ان الانسان في مرحلة نمو متتابعة ومتسلسلة وتؤثر كل مرحلة على التقدم والنمو وتراجع الفرد بأحد خصائص النمو في مرحلة واحده يؤثر على المراحل التالية وهذا يختلف مع ما ذكره الكاتب ان الشخص التوحدي مهما يكن عمره حتى لو كان تجاوز الثلاثين قادرين على علاجه ويكن كالفرد العادي الذي نما بشكل طبيعي، لا احب الامل الزائف لأهل ذوي التوحد بالشفاء التام ولكن التقدم هو المطلب في هذا الاضطراب.
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