This practical resource is brimming with ideas and guidance for using simple ideas from speech and language pathology and occupational therapy to boost communication, sensory integration, and coordination skills in children on the autism spectrum. Suitable for use in the classroom, at home, and in community settings, it is packed with easy-to-follow, goal-oriented activities and lesson plans centering around arts and crafts, music-making, cookery, sensory activities, and skills for daily living. The activities all use materials and objects which are readily available in the home or classroom, and can easily be adapted to suit children of different abilities, including those who are non-verbal. This book is perfect for teachers, speech and language pathologists, and occupational therapists who need fresh and effective activity ideas for the classroom or therapy room, as well as for parents and other caregivers who want to help their child with autism speak, move, play . . . and learn.
This book started off with a brief introduction to speech and occupational therapy respectively, followed by ideas for activities to be conducted with children on the autism spectrum, and ended off with several testimonials. Although I am not in a position to implement such activities as an intern, this book provided insights into the purposes behind each creative activity, such as how the activities may promote functional communication or self-feeding skills. I also liked how variations were given for each activity, so that the activities can be adjusted based on the children's abilities and interests.