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If your child has Autism or any other developmental disability, as a parent first think you are going to do is read as many books as you can; visit as many doctors as you can; and try as many therapies as you can. If a child next door is getting a benefit from Dophin Therapy it does not mean that your child will also benefit from the same therapy. And this is really a WRONG approach. Not only you will waste your time, money and energy but also you will end up spending a valuable time of your child. We just found out the our son has an autism, which books should we refer to? We are having tremendous difficulty in dealing with our son's public school system. My son's IEP (Individualized Education Plan) is turning in to big blunder. What should we do now?

We just found out the our son has an autism, which books should we refer to?
	Facing Autism: Giving Parents Reasons for Hope and Guidance for Help This is one mother's account of coping with her son's autism. Within two months of his diagnosis, Ryan began intensive Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and with his mother tackled other related issues, including immune deficiency, food intolerance, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Hamilton has investigated and tried many "alternative" therapies, most of which were not welcomed by the doctors she consulted. However, the results for Ryan have been very good. Husband Roger adds a chapter about a spouse/father's role in a family with special needs. Writing from a Christian perspective, Hamilton recounts her faith in God, which helps carry her through adversity. Each section of the book contains lists of resources (institutes, clinics, schools, and programs, with phone and FAX numbers, e-mail addresses, and web sites). This is a strong argument for ABA as well as dozens of other nontraditional approaches to a puzzling diagnosis. A MUST to read book on autism.
	Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew I have read through dozens of books pertaining to Autism and within this one book I found more useful information than anywhere else. This book is not just for parents and therapists, but also for family members adjusting to life with a child who has Autism. It helps you get inside the head of a child with Autism, and understand the struggles and pain these children face every single day.

We are having tremendous difficulty in dealing with our son’s public school system. My son’s IEP (Individualized Education Plan) is turning in to big blunder. What should we do now? Read at least one of the following book. Don’t worry you do not need to hire lawyer to advocate your own child. And these books are written for parents like us. Only thing you should do it buy and read the book, and be prepared for IEP. You will feel very confident in your child's IEP after reading this book. Let your voice be heard.
	Wrightslaw: IDEA 2004 This is the first book you need to purchase if you have a child in special education. Educating yourself on educational law is essential. This author explains the information in a very clear and reader friendly way. You and your child don't have time to waste...purchase this book. I wish I had heard of this long before I did.

	Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy: The Special Education Survival Guide If you have a special needs child, you need this book. Buy it as soon as your child is diagnosed, because you will gain so much valuable insight into working with school districts, teachers, etc. value of keeping accurate notes from meetings, phone calls, etc. You learn most of all how important it is to keep your emotions in check during those dreaded IEP'S. You learn how NOT to dread the IEP's--which further helps in keeping your emotions reined in. And, you will learn when it is necessary and appropriate to take further action on your child’s behalf when your child is not receiving the education he/she is entitled to under US federal law.

	Wrightslaw: No Child Left Behind The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) is more than just standardized testing. In this book, the Wrightslaw team leads a clear path through NCLB, explaining important aspects such as requirements for qualified staff, the ability for children to transfer from dangerous schools, and more. Although I started out skeptical of NCLB (and still have issues with standardized testing), reading this book showed me the positive sides of the act and how it can be a powerful tool for parents.

	Writing Measurable IEP Goals and Objectives A guide to quick and effective writing of accurate and measurable IEP goals and objectives. IEPs are necessary, required by law and when done properly can be extremely helpful in guiding the student's educational trajectory. This book, written by two of the foremost special educators and IEP legal experts is designed to bring you up to speed whether you're just entering the field or have worked in it for years.

	Why Johnny Doesn't Behave: Twenty Tips and Measurable BIPs If you are involved with children in the education system this book may be what you are looking for. The authors take the reader through creating a measurable Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP). The information includes detailed flowchart analysis of behavior and how to integrate an intervention plan into the flowchart so that the results are clear and measurable. With the increasingly litigation against schools, knowing how to document the behavior and intervention that was taken has become more and more important not only for the child but for the school and educator as well. It is also one of the most recommended read for anyone dealing with children in an educational environment.
	How To Compromise With Your School District Without Compromising Your Child: A Field Guide For Getting Effective Services For Children With Special Needs This book is an invaluable resource, whether you are completing the Initial IEP or are updating your child's IEP. The book gives straightforward, honest advice, and helps to educate parents on ways of approaching sensitive issues, without becoming confrontational. Written in easy to understand terms. Incredibly helpful!!

A Voice for GAP Kids
P.O. Box 174, Rockville, VA 23146
Call (804) 749-3895 or email us at : tim@voiceforgapkids.com
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