Quirky, Yes—Hopeless, No: Practical Tips to Help Your Child with Asperger’s Syndrome Be More Socially Accepted

In 2000, educational psychologist Norwall created the Friends’ Club, a nonjudgmental, stress-free environment where kids with Asperger’s syndrome could learn to communicate effectively, make friends and succeed in social settings. Certain aspects of social awareness—greeting others, asking questions, listening without interruption and looking someone in the eye and smiling—do not come naturally to Asperger’s kids, but with guidance, coaching and practice, children can conquer these essential people skills and no longer unintentionally get into trouble because others misunderstand their words or actions. This book, based on Norwall’s outreach work, is designed to be a handy, practical guide. Beginning with two chapters of bulleted info and FAQs to explain and identify the signs and symptoms of the condition, it presents 85 Lessons for Decoding Asperger’s Children, arranged alphabetically from acceptance, anger and annoying behavior through peer pressure, and even “Telling Your Child He Has Asperger’s.” Each useful, carefully worded entry addresses kids’ behaviors and their parents’ concerns, gives examples from real situations and offers suggestions for change or, as is often the case, acceptance. Although a dozen or more experts are cited, the book is conversational in tone, full of insights and will help and encourage parents and their Aspie or high-functioning autistic kids alike. (Aug.)