Solving Executive Function Challenges: Simple Ways to Get Kids with Autism Unstuck and on Target

by Lauren Kenworthy, Laura Gutermuth Anthony, Katie C. Alexander

How can you help kids with autism be flexible, get organized, and work toward goals—not just in school but in everyday life? It's all about executive function, and this quick problem-solving guide helps you explicitly teach these critical skills to high-functioning children with autism (Grades K-8). Used on its own or in tandem with the popular Unstuck and On Target! classroom curriculum, this practical guide shows how to embed executive function instruction in dozens of everyday scenarios, from morning routines to getting homework done. Designed for therapists, teachers, and parents, these highly effective techniques give children the skills they need to navigate each day, reach their goals, and succeed inside and outside the classroom. THIS BOOK HELPS PRACTICAL Dozens of specific, easy-to-do examples; "Goal, Plan, Do, Check" scripts and worksheets that break down tasks into small, achievable chunks; key words and phrases that help kids stay on target; reproducible visual aids; sample IEP goals. Help children with autism Quick-reference magnet included! As a bonus, you'll also get a 4 x 6 magnet printed with key words and sample scripts from Unstuck and On Target! It's a handy quick reference for the "Goal-Plan-Do-Check" process that helps students set and meet goals.

Genres: Nonfiction, Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Education, Parenting, Psychology

184 pages, Paperback

First published May 5, 2014

Reviews

[Alexis · Rating 4 out of 5]

The ideas are fairly solid though not revolutionary. (Some people who really hate behaviorism will hate talk of rewards or fading, though I think the concepts are used appropriately.) This has an accompanying curriculum and I think the real test would be if the child learns to apply the skills. The trick (as a parent who is struggling with these issues right now) is learning to apply the concepts systematically across domains. I also think there's a lot more to be said and done with executive function skills in the school setting, particularly for academically able kids with ASD/ADHD.

[Hope Crowley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great framework for understanding and tackling the frustrating question, “They are so smart...why can’t they just show what they know?”
Highly recommended!

[Gretchen Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding

[Tom Romig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Understanding a child with autism is, for me, a continuing exercise in revising and reinterpreting my responses to certain behaviors that I think I get but in reality mean something else in the child's world. A consequence of this growing understanding and appreciation of the child's behavior is that I am developing appropriate responses to the child's needs. This marvelous book explains in highly accessible terms the behavior of children with ASD and enumerates practical methods for effectively caring for these children and helping them be successful in life.

[Kristen Luppino · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great ideas for kids and for kids with autism!