THE AUTISTIC CHILD'S GUIDE presents spark*, the Self-regulation Program of Awareness and Resilience in Kids. spark* is an innovative evidence-based program that teaches children how to manage and regulate their behavior, thinking and emotions more effectively. spark* is appropriate for any child, two to 8 years of age, where self-regulation is a concern; for example, children with autism spectrum disorders, fetal alcohol disorder, Fragile X and attention deficit. This book contains 44 step-by-step lessons that can be implemented by teachers, therapists, assistants and parents. Based on well-researched theory and extensive clinical experience, the groundbreaking spark* program helps children learn how and when to control their bodies, thinking and reactions to things that happen around them. They also learn when and where they can 'let loose' and not worry about self-regulation. spark* is comprehensive, practical and systematic and provides all information and resources needed to implement the program successfully, including a CD with printable and internet resources.Unique features of spark** Focus on three areas of self-regulation: behavioral, cognitive and emotional* Emphasis on five major executive functions* Early and consistent inclusion of self-calming, resilience and self-advocacy strategies* Systematic withdrawal of adult direction moving toward self-direction for each child* Explicit teaching of generalization of self-regulation skills and strategies
About the Author: Heather MacKenzie, Ph.D., is a speech-language pathologist and educator who has spent a large part of her career developing and implementing new approaches for enhancing learning in children with special needs. She has a special interest in understanding autism spectrum conditions (ASC) and in translating current research into sound clinical practices. A major focus of her work with children has been on understanding them and how they approach learning. She has used this knowledge to develop models for optimizing their development. Heather developed the Learning Preferences and Strengths model which is designed to determine each child is learning preferences and strengths and then 'harness' the preferences and strength to improve the child's learning and development. In her current book, The Autistic Child's Guide, she presents the spark* model which is an extension of her child-centered, mediational approach to teaching and learning. Heather has provided workshops and presentations all over North America, in the U.K. and in Asia. Heather's areas of expertise include autism spectrum conditions, language and communication disorders, Learning Preferences and Strengths, personality/psychological type and multiple intelligences in children with special needs. Visit Heather's website at www.drheathermackenzie.com and the spark* website at spark-kids.ca