Special/Collaborative Education

This book discusses critical issues concerning autism and education, and what constitutes effective pedagogy for this group of learners. Autism is a high-profile area within the discipline of special education, and the issue of how to teach autistic learners remains a contested one: recent theorising has questioned a techno-rationalist approach that places the burden of change on the autistic pupil. The author explores the values that underpin educational approaches within existing pedagogical practice: while these approaches have their individual merits and shortcomings, this book introduces and expands upon a strengths-based approach. This book will appeal to students and scholars of autism and education, with particular regard to teaching autistic learners.  ​

This updated book offers a comprehensive understanding of music therapy services for young children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families in home, preschool, and community settings. It addresses recent diagnostic features, evidence-based practices, and effective music therapy interventions backed by rigorous scientific evidence. Determining eligibility, gathering information, and identifying intervention goals for children with ASD are addressed in the assessment chapter followed by prominent approaches applied in music therapy practice. Managing sensory processing and communication issues that may interfere with everyday life is discussed from an interdisciplinary perspective. Inclusion and family practices, effective advocacy efforts, and a reflection of life journeys of four music therapists who are parents of children with ASD conclude the 15 engaging and resourceful chapters.

* The program and philosophy described in the book is unique as it presents the concept with a basis in behavioral analysis, and how improvised theatre can be used as a tool, rather than as simply a recreational activity or social event * Includes a comprehensive listing of 80+ different games/activities. Each activity is clearly explained, including the methodology, process and insight for teachers, as well as the underlying purpose each game is designed to address * In addition to professionals teaching social skills to individuals with autism spectrum disorder, the content of the book is also designed so that parents of special needs students can easily access the activities for at-home instruction and recreational use with their children

Integrating Social and Emotional Learning with Content builds a framework for creatively and effectively using picture books to integrate social and emotional learning (SEL) with teaching across content areas. Thoughtful book choices in mixed-ability early elementary classrooms have the power to not only support gifted students as they develop academically, but also to provide an opportunity to address their unique social and emotional needs, such as asynchronous development and an early awareness of complex and challenging issues in their lives and the world at large. Picture books are an invaluable tool for this work because the characters, topics, and settings increasingly represent and celebrate the lived experiences of diverse student populations, supporting culturally responsive teaching. Packed with lesson plans, book lists, and more, this book is perfect for teachers in gifted and mixed-ability classrooms as well as homeschooling parents looking to help their children make meaningful connections between their culture, languages, and lived experiences and the academic content and SEL skills they are being taught in the classroom.

Education is an important aspect of the environmental influences on autism and effective education can have a significant effect on outcome for those on the autism spectrum. This handbook is a definitive resource for reflective practitioners and researchers who wish to know and understand current views of the nature of autism and best practice in educational support. It explores the key concepts, debates and research areas in the field.