Making Sense of Autistic Spectrum Disorders: Create the Brightest Future for Your Child with the Best Treatment Options

by James Coplan

In this authoritative and empowering book, one of the world’s leading experts on early child development gives caregivers of children on the autistic spectrum the knowledge they need to navigate the complex maze of symptoms, diagnoses, tests, and treatment options that await them.

For more than thirty years, James Coplan, M.D., has been helping families cope with the challenges posed by autistic spectrum disorders (ASD). Each family that walks into his office, he knows, is about to begin a journey. With this book, he lays out the steps of that journey. Dr. Coplan brings you into the treatment rooms and along for the tests and evaluations, and provides the kind of practical hands-on guidance that will help you help your child with ASD through every phase of life.
 
At a time when ASD has become the subject of wild theories and uninformed speculation, Dr. Coplan grounds his recommendations in reality. He helps you understand for yourself where your child may be on the spectrum that includes autism, Asperger Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified. His clear, comprehensive, and compassionate advice prepares you to make informed medical decisions, evaluate the various educational and therapeutic alternatives, and find answers to such fundamental questions as
 
• How do I optimize my child’s long-term potential?
• Which interventions will best serve my child?
• How do the various therapies work, and what is the evidence to support them?
• What is the best way to teach my child?
 
This book empowers you to be an expert advocate for your child, so that you’ll know when to say no to an ill-advised therapy or medication and can make with confidence the hundreds of important decisions you will face in the years ahead. For every parent who has made the painful transition from “Why did this happen?” to “What can we do to help our child?,” here is the indispensable guidebook you’ve been waiting for.

Genres: Nonfiction, Parenting, Psychology, Autistic Spectrum Disorder

448 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2010

Reviews

[Sheila Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started working with preschoolers with autism In 2017. I read through page 259 of this book in 2018 (meaning to come back to it when I got it from the library again). 2020 is when I actually ordered the book again and got to finish it, and the timing was impeccable as I had just started working with middle schoolers and high schoolers with autism. I don’t agree with every single thing in this book but probably the majority of it. The author’s knowledge and perspective are incredibly helpful, and I would suggest this book to parents of children with autism!!! It’s a great intro.

[Phil Calandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the most comprehensive guides to the analysis and treatment of Autism and related Disorders. The author is a well known expert in the field who provides the reader with numerous scientific studies to back up his assertions. Furthermore, the author's book is an excellent resource geared for the professional and layman, especially for those who love someone who fits into the autism spectrum or related developmental disorders. I would highly recommend this book

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some really good information and some really bad information. Autism is not a calamity. ABA was founded by someone who was also involved in gay conversion therapy. Some studies have shown links between ABA and PTSD. No child should be subjected to ABA.

[Andrea Hewitt · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this is a great book for families who are just getting the autism diagnosis. Lots of up-to-date info about where the research is right now (2010). He also debunks many of the myths in a very rational, science-based way. I only skimmed it, but it would be worth a read if you are dealing with this issue and want to know more.

[Briana]

“Need this Book. Good Overview book of the whole spectrum. Coplan's book is more about the entire spectrum, he delivers a message of hope with sincere respect and warmth. His is the rare book that reads just like the author speaking.”

[Jodi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great read for anyone who needs explanation of autistic spectrum disorders. It is an engaging guide with a road map for parents and professions to use to navigate through the maze of services, therapies and programs available for children.

[Inder · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very common sense, realistic, and grounded in evidence description. A really good first book to read for a parent facing a new diagnosis. Nothing earth shattering here, just down to earth advice and thoughts on treatment.

[Jan Berg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very informative & well written.

[Isabelle Macnider]

Great book! Informed advice from a specialized professional. Best review of new therapies I've read so far.

[AP · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best general introductory book on the disorder.

[Dina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was highly enlightening and really made me think about how we talk about our son and how others do. I recongnized many things that I can improve on, which I was just not aware I was doing.

[Evelyn Vigdahl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for helping you figure out where your child lies on the spectrum and what therapies are most appropriate for your situation.

[Bethany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best book I have come across about handling an autism diagnosis. It's well-balanced, scientific, and accurate.