RESOURCES to help us in our RESOLUTION to Move TowardsFull Inclusion of Persons with Developmental/Intellectual Disabilities

The Rev. Susan Bek, of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, composed the majority of the list that follows, based on her experience as St. Stephen’s Director of Youth & Children’s Ministries, for 15 years, and as the mother of four, two of whom have developmental disabilities.

Susan also shared the attached Episcopal Children’s Charter, which calls us to nurture and care for children while ministering to them and inviting them to take their part in ministering to us. As Susan says, “Cognitive disabilities include a wide spectrum of diagnoses and presentations. No two people are alike. Some are able to be main-streamed and can participate in programs designed for typical children and adults. Others may need a variety of assistance and accommodations. Some, because of sensory challenges and other issues, are unable to attend regular programs and services. For these more challenged individuals, special programs can be developed. See Rhythms of Grace: Worship and Faith Formation for Children and Families with Special Needs (on the attached resource list).”

Susan continues: “training volunteers to work with special needs children is both challenging and rewarding. It challenges us to rethink how we do things and to take seriously our pledge to welcome everyone…not just everyone who is like us. It also gives volunteers the opportunity to learn and grow in ways they might not otherwise, and it gives them the satisfaction of bringing God to and seeing God in people who the world sometimes overlooks and dismisses.”

Resources for Establishing Special Needs Ministries:1. Rhythms of Grace: Worship and Faith Formation for Children and

Families With Special Needs by Audrey Scanlan and Linda Snyder (Aug 2010) Rhythms of Grace is a unique, innovative and cutting-edge program resource designed to meet the spiritual needs of children and families living with autism-spectrum disorders. Participant families gather monthly with program leaders and volunteers for sessions that are a hybrid of worship and faith formation. Rhythms of Grace helps children and their families feel at the center of a worship/formation experience that is specific to their needs and circumstances, rather than merely at the margins of even a conventionally inclusive program of worship or faith formation. The whole Rhythms of Grace curriculum consists of a 3-year syllabus of distinct scripture-based session plans. This volume, Year 1, includes complete plans for 12 monthly sessions and 6 feast sessions, as well as the background and support material needed to establish and conduct a successful program.

2. The Special Needs Ministry Handbook: A Church's Guide to Reaching Children with Disabilities and Their Families by Amy Rapada (Aug 21, 2007) Educationally, spiritually and experience based; a practical instructional guide and inspirational resource written for church leaders, Sunday school teachers, and families with disabilities.

3. Special Needs Ministry for Children: Creating a Welcoming Place for Families Whose Children Have Special Needs by Pat Verbal (Sep 5,

2012) Open your heart to the most amazing ministry a church can have! There's perhaps no better way to share and recieve God's love than through a special needs ministry to children. Do you know what it takes to make these kids - and their parents - feel welcome in your church? This practical, insightful book is your guide to answering all those questions and more. Packed with case studies and personal stores from recognized experts in the ministry field, you'll learn the truth about: The best ways to reach the most overlooked group of people in your community. How to launch a special needs ministry in your church. How to promote and recruit the right volunteers. What families with special needs really need from you, and much, much more!

4. Special Needs, Special Ministry by Joni Eareckson-Tada (Dec 2003) Jesus told us to reach out to everyone-and that includes children with special needs and their families. Here are true, inspirational stories from families who share the struggles and successes of parenting children with special needs. Special Needs-Special Ministry is a practical, real-world guide to help you! Learn from the successes and failures of churches with special-needs programs; launch or further develop a special-needs ministry; and gain insight from experts in the field: Pat Verbal (a gifted leader, speaker, teacher, and founder of Ministry to Today's Child), Louise Tucker Jones (award-winning author and inspirational speaker) and more.

5. Vulnerable Communion: A Theology of Disability and Hospitality by Thomas E. Reynolds (Apr 1, 2008) As parents of a son with disabilities, Thomas E. Reynolds and his wife know what it's like to be misunderstood by a church community. In Vulnerable Communion, Reynolds draws upon that personal experience and a diverse body of literature to empower churches and individuals to foster deeper hospitality toward persons with disabilities. Reynolds argues that the Christian story is one of strength coming from weakness, of wholeness emerging from brokenness, and of power in vulnerability. He offers valuable biblical, theological, and pastoral tools to understand and welcome those with disabilities. Vulnerable Communion will be a useful resource for any student, theologian, church leader, or lay person seeking to discover the power of God revealed through weakness.

6. Compel Them To Come In: Reaching People with Disabilities through the Local Church by Charlie Chivers and Tom Leach (Feb 16, 2010) One out of every five Americans lives with the daily challenges of some form of disability. Eighty percent of this group has no home church home to call their own. For twenty-eight years Special Touch Ministry has served the spiritual and felt needs of thousands of people with physical and intellectual disabilities across the nation. In addition to direct ministry through the Summer Get Away vacation/retreat program and local chapter support groups, its representatives have taught at numerous churches and conferences on vital issues related to disability awareness, advocacy and ministry across the country. Now Special Touch presents a tool to help local pastors and congregations touch the lives of people with disabilities in their communities. Compel Them to Come In: Reaching People with Disabilities through the Local Church is both a disability ministry conference between two covers and a journey into the world of disability as seen through those who live there. At the heart of the book is the premise that every person, regardless of their condition or disability deserves a presentation of the gospel at their level of understanding. Compel Them to Come In presents discussions on the following topics: The Biblical foundation and mandate for disability ministry.

How churches can start an outreach to people with disabilities in their community. A Biblical strategy for evangelism How to Present a Disability Awareness Sunday. Including Students with Special Needs in your Sunday School Whosoever Will May Come: People with Intellectual Disabilities and Worship Understanding the Unique Needs of People with Mild Intellectual Disabilities. Inside the Prison Bars of Physical Disability. The Crisis and the Covenant: Physical Disability and Marriage Making the Cross Accessible to the Blind and the Vision Impaired With much more to everyone with an accessible heart and a desire to make a difference on an adventure of a lifetime!

7. Including People With Disabilities in Faith Communities: A Guide for Service Providers, Families, & Congregations by Erik W. Carter (Apr 12, 2007) The only available practical guide on how to include people with disabilities in religious communities. Erik Carter's interest in this topic has been an abiding part of his research, and he is one of the leaders in discussion inclusion and faith. This book addresses how faith communities, service providers, and families can work together to support the full participation of individuals with disabilities in the faith community of their choice. Topics include: rationale for including and supporting people with disabilities within a faith community; the importance of collaboration among faith communities, service providers, families, and individuals with disabilities to establish and maintain supports; specific ideas for including individuals with disabilities and for developing a network of religious groups, service providers, and families to make faith communities more inclusive.

8. Amplifying Our Witness: Giving Voice to Adolescents with Developmental Disabilities by Benjamin T. Conner (Jun 11, 2012) Nearly twenty percent of adolescents have developmental disabilities, yet far too often they are marginalized within churches. Amplifying Our Witness challenges congregations to adopt a new, practice-centered approach to congregational ministry -- one that includes and amplifies the witness of adolescents with developmental disabilities. Replete with stories taken from Benjamin Conner's own extensive experience with befriending and disciplining adolescents with developmental disabilities, Amplifying Our Witness -Shows how churches exclude the mentally disabled in various structural and even theological ways - Stresses the intrinsic value of kids with developmental disabilities - Reconceptualizes evangelism to adolescents with developmental disabilities, emphasizing hospitality and friendship.

9. Let All the Children Come to Me: A Practical Guide Including Children with Disabilities in Your Church Ministries by MaLesa Breeding, Dana Kennamer Hood and Jerry E. Whitworth (Apr 1, 2006) This book blends theory and research with practical ideas and strategies for teaching children with special needs and places it in a spiritual and Christ-centered context. It is said that everyone has a story to tell, a voice that deserves to be heard. There are many thousands of children with special needs who have long been ignored, rejected and excluded from our schools, our communities and sadly from our Bible classes. We believe that these children are loved deeply and completely by our Lord and that they, too, are called to come unto Him. This book speaks to the heart and to the head. Teachers and pastors will find inspiration and information, reminding them that God calls us to include all children, no matter the challenge. In addition, the book includes wonderfully

practical elements with many ideas that can be easily integrated into any classroom. By combining philosophy and strategies this book will equip the typical church volunteer teacher to meet the needs of all the children in her classroom.

10.Special Needs, Special Ministry by Joni Eareckson-Tada (Dec 2003) Jesus told us to reach out to everyone-and that includes children with special needs and their families. Here are true, inspirational stories from families who share the struggles and successes of parenting children with special needs. Special Needs-Special Ministry is a practical, real-world guide to help you! Learn from the successes and failures of churches with special-needs programs; launch or further develop a special-needs ministry; and gain insight from experts in the field: Pat Verbal (a gifted leader, speaker, teacher, and founder of Ministry to Today's Child), Louise Tucker Jones (award-winning author and inspirational speaker) and more!

11.Autism and Your Church: Nurturing the Spiritual Growth of People with Autism Spectrum Disorder by Barbara J Newman (Jul 14, 2011) Autism has evolved from an unfamiliar term to an everyday reality for millions of people. Bookstore shelves are filled with resources that address how Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects children and adults at school, work, and home. But what about the church? What about your church? How can it become a welcoming place for individuals and families affected by ASD? Autism and Your Church offers practical ways to welcome and include individuals with ASD into the full life of your congregation. This resource will enable church leaders to - appreciate those with ASD as persons created in God s image- learn about six common areas of difference in individuals with ASD.- discover ten strategies for including people with ASD in the life of your church.- develop an action plan for ongoing ministry with children and adults who have ASD.A reproducible resources section includes interview and permission forms, a coordinator s job description, a sample Individual Spiritual Formation Plan, and more.

12.Autism & Alleluias by Kathleen Deyer Bolduc (Feb 15, 2010) In the past two or three years, autism has garnered stories in TIME, Newsweek, and USA Today. According to the latest U.S. Census Bureau figures, 1 in 150 American children have autism, and the numbers are growing daily (an increase of 13% over the past ten years). Difficult behaviors, a myriad of specialists, problems with schools, special diets this developmental disability turns a family's world upside-down. What is the role that faith plays in helping families cope? Is it possible to sing alleluia in the midst of a very real adversity? In this series of slice-of-life vignettes, God's grace glimmers through the shadows as Joel, an intellectually challenged teen with autism, teaches those who love him that walking the labyrinth of life requires childlike faith, humility, trust, compassion, forgiveness, and an attitude of openness to all of God s gifts.

13.Ministries With Persons With Mental Illness and Their Families by Robert H. Albers, William H. Meller and Steven D. Thurber (Feb 1, 2012) Those who are afflicted as well as those who are adversely affected by mental illness often live lives of "quiet desperation" without recourse to appropriate assistance. Most caregivers confronted with these illnesses in the work of ministry have had no training or accurate information about mental illnesses, so frequently they do nothing, resulting in further harm and damage. Others

may operate out of a theological system that does not adequately account for the nature, severity, or treatment of these illnesses. In Ministry with Persons with Mental Illness and Their Families, psychiatrists and pastoral theologians come together in an interdisciplinary, collaborative effort to ensure accuracy of information concerning the medical dimensions of mental illness, interpret these illnesses from a faith perspective, and make suggestions relative to effective ministry. Readers will learn how science and a faith tradition can not only co-exist but work in tandem to alleviate the pain of the afflicted and affected.

14.Unexpected Guests at God's Banquet: Welcoming People with Disabilities Into the Church by Brett Webb-Mitchell (Mar 1, 2009) Taking insight from Jesus' parable of the banquet feast, this practical and challenging call to a more inclusive church shows why disabled people--the mentally disabled, the physically impaired, and others--must be a part of congregational life, and offers advice on how to make this a reality.

15.Beyond Accessibility: Toward Full Inclusion of People with Disabilities in Faith Communities by Brett Webb-Mitchell (Apr 8, 2010)

1. A church has built an accessibility ramp and perhaps refitted its restrooms to accommodate a wheelchair. Now what? This new resource by a noted author of several books on people with disabilities offers a theological and practical approach for congregations, with clear, targeted strategies for full inclusion of all members, recognizing and using the gifts that each member brings to the congregations life together.

16.Churches That Make a Difference: Reaching Your Community with Good News and Good Works by Ronald J. Sider, Philip N. Olson and Heidi Rolland Unruh (Apr 1, 2002) Churches over the past generations have been weakened by a failure to meet both the physical and spiritual needs of their communities. Many have adopted a narrow vision, focusing on only one aspect of ministry. But in today's environment of faith-based opportunities many Christians are eager to start reaching out to their world with both Good News and good works, and therefore they are searching for appropriate ways to integrate both into their ministry. In Churches That Make a Difference, best-selling author Ron Sider and his coauthors give those involved in community outreach a comprehensive resource for developing holistic ministry--a balance of evangelism and social outreach. Illustrations and helpful organizational tips detail the how-to's of an effective holistic ministry. Case studies that show how different churches across the United States reach out to their communities provide a variety of ideas and practical applications. User-friendly tools are included as well for congregational studies, surveys, evaluations, and community assessments. The authors draw on extensive experience with church ministries and faith-based organizations as they share the life-changing vision and biblical mandate for living the whole gospel. Church leaders will be encouraged in their process of developing and maintaining a holistic ministry, and local churches will rediscover a passion for loving the whole person the way Jesus did.

17.McGuire Memorial Awakening Spiritual Dimensions: Prayer Services with Persons with Severe Disabilities by William Gillum (May 5, 2006) McGuire Memorial Awakening Spiritual Dimensions: Prayer Services with Persons with Severe Disabilities presents a program whereby persons with

severe mental and physical disabilities and their caregivers are given the tools and the opportunity to awaken the Spirit of God within them. The book begins with a presentation on the purpose and methods used to allow its participants to evoke, awaken, and intuit the love and presence of God during a time of prayer. The somewhat contemplative prayer services of Awakening Spiritual Dimensions use a sensory-based model allowing symbols, sight, sounds, aroma, touch, and people to bring about a sense of the sacred to all who have gathered for prayer.

Resources for Sunday School Directors and Teachers:18.Exceptional Teaching: A Comprehensive Guide for Including Students

with Disabilities by Jim Pierson (Feb 1, 2002) Is there a child with a learning disability who wants to be part of your Sunday school class or youth group? Jim Piersons Exceptional Teaching will relieve your misgivings and allow every child to participate. He explains the characteristics of 77 special needs diagnoses, and identifies challenges, appropriate teaching and discipline methods, and realistic expectations. Includes wonderful true stories of exceptional lives.

19.Children's Ministry Pocket Guide to Special Needs: Quick Tips to Reach Every Child (10-pack) by Group Publishing Inc (Jun 2, 2008) What are ten important special needs among kids today? Find out. Then discover relevant teaching techniques, plus tips for parents and other kids in the classroom. You'll learn how to identify and connect with children who have special needs, and reach them with Jesus' great love. See kids thrive in your class! Money savings! For just over a dollar each, you can hand out guides to ten volunteers. Includes surveys and tools to guide teachers as they partner with parents. Easy to use. Carry in your Bible, purse, or bag for quick reference. Pack of 10 pocket guides.

20.*Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew by Ellen Notbohm (Jan 1, 2005) Winner of an iParenting Media Award and Honorable Mention in the 2005 ForeWord Book of the Year Awards! Every parent, teacher, social worker, therapist, and physician should have this succinct and informative book in their back pocket. Framed with both humor and compassion, the book defines the top ten characteristics that illuminate the minds and hearts of children with autism. Ellen's personal experiences as a parent, an autism columnist, and a contributor to numerous parenting magazines coalesce to create a guide for all who come in contact with a child on the autism spectrum. Don't buy just one of this book- buy one for everyone who interacts with your child! Give the gift of understanding. Helpful chapters include: My sensory perceptions are disordered. Distinguish between won’t and can’t. I am a concrete thinker; I interpret language literally. Be patient with my limited vocabulary. Because language is so difficult for me, I am very visually oriented. Focus and build on what I can do rather than what I can’t do. Help me with social interactions. Identify what triggers my meltdowns.

21.The Child with Autism Learns about Faith: 15 Ready-to-Use Scripture Lessons, from the Garden of Eden to the Parting of the Red Sea by Kathy Labosh (Feb 25, 2011) Endorsed by religious leaders, this groundbreaking book offers a step-by-step lesson plan for family members, educators, and church staff—including scripted narratives, group activities, prayers, scripture readings, classroom setup guidance, lists of additional

resources, and more. Each lesson is also accompanied by a Scripture Study for instructors to help them prepare for each class, where the author provides additional ideas and discussion questions.

22.Behavior Solutions for the Inclusive Classroom: A Handy Reference Guide that Explains Behaviors Associated with Autism, Asperger's, ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, and other Special Needs by Beth Aune, Beth Burt and Peter Gennaro (Apr 30, 2010) WHY won't he stay in his seat? WHY does she flap her hands? And WHAT should I do?? As inclusion becomes the norm in general education, teachers are faced with behaviors they have never seen before. Special needs educators may recognize the telltale symptom of a sensory need or a textbook-case of an avoidance behavior, but this is all new territory for the general-ed crowd! Written by Director of Special Education Peter Gennaro, occupational therapist Beth Aune, and special needs mom and advocate Beth Burt, this book illuminates possible causes of those mysterious behaviors, and more importantly, provides solutions! Teachers can quickly look up an in-the-moment solution and learn about what the child is communicating, and why. The authors collaboratively address problem behaviors such as: Out-of-Seat Behaviors; Fidgeting; Hand-flapping; Covering Ears; Hiding or Running Away When Upset; Putting Head Down or "Shutting Down"; Difficulty with Class Work and Homework; Losing Materials and Missing Assignments; Poor Handwriting; Not Following Directions; Saying Rude or Inappropriate Things; Clothing Issues; Difficulty Making Decisions; Excessive Talking; Laughing Excessively or Being Silly; Little or No Eye Contact; Temper Outbursts; And many others! Teachers, it is possible to accommodate learning differences and sustain a positive learning environment for ALL students. This book is a must-have for every inclusive classroom!

23.Helping Kids Include Kids With Disabilities by Barbara J. Newman (Jun 1, 2001) Children with special needs are part of God's family. This book gives you practical tips for helping students welcome children who have disabilities into their classes at church or at school. Chapters address specific conditions such as autism, visual and hearing impairments, emotional impairments, learning disabilities, language disorders, ADHD, and much more. Also included are guidelines for churches, sample lesson plans, and devotions for families.

24.God Plays Piano, Too: The Spiritual Lives of Disabled Children by Brett Webb-Mitchell (Oct 25, 1993) Joshua is a young boy with an extraordinary gift for playing the piano. He is also autistic. His story is one of many in this revelatory look at the spiritual lives of children with disabilities: those with mental retardation, autism, or behavior disorders.

25.Building Sensory Friendly Classrooms to Support Children with Challenging Behaviors: Implementing Data Driven Strategies! by Rebecca A. Moyes (Oct 1, 2010) Rebecca Moyes, a teacher, author, renowned lecturer, and mother of a child with Asperger's Syndrome, helps walk any regular education or special education teacher through the process of setting up a sensory-friendly classroom in this easy to use book. This is currently the only book that discusses the importance of data-driven strategies, and then helps teachers implement them! Sensory integration disorder often presents as a behavioral problem; thus, although it’s an internal state, it has to be addressed based on what

observable behaviors are seen in the child. Rebecca is able to take the data and work out how to make any student's, (and teacher's!), life easier.

26.Special Needs Smart Pages: Advice, Answers and Articles About Teaching Children with Special Needs by Joni & Friends (Jan 5, 2009) Children with special needs often don’t fit into typical children’s church programs, resulting in frustration for parents, children and the churches themselves. And yet it is crucial that all children are given the opportunity to meet Jesus as their Savior and Lord. In Special Needs Smart Pages, Joni and Friends meet this vital need by providing churches of all sizes a comprehensive resource to help them reach out to individuals with different kinds of special needs, including autism, cognitive brain disorders and physical disabilities. Readers will learn how to recruit and train leaders and teachers for a special needs ministry, how to meet the physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs of disabled children, and how to help these children discover and use their unique gifts to serve the Body of Christ. Includes lessons for specially tailored Bible stories, motivational teacher devotionals, planning information, training articles, tips and mini-posters, in addition to inspiring stories of six kids with special needs living for Jesus.

27.Handbook for Adaptive Catechesis: Serving Those with Special Needs by Michele Chronister MA (Sep 1, 2012) This handbook reflects on the needs of individuals with a wide range of disabilities and calls on catechists and religious education programs to consider special needs students for their mainstream and specialized programs. This comprehensive book covers a variety of the most-encountered special needs, along with approaches for meeting those needs. The author discusses strategies for having fruitful dialogues with parents, identifying students for your special needs program, recruiting effective catechists or teachers, and developing lesson plans. Throughout, the text and examples are straight-forward, practical, and easily understood, specifically by catechists who may not have the formal theological training required to fully use other resources available on the market. It can even be used by catechists in traditional classrooms as a resource of creative teaching techniques for students who have ADD/ ADHD or mild learning disabilities. Catechists today are challenged to be mindful of advances in education on the subject of those with disabilities. These students are beloved by Christ and members of the Church. Thus, all the faithful ought to strive to work for their benefit and be open to the giftedness they bring to our faith communities.

28.Same Lake, Different Boat: Coming Alongside People Touched by Disability by Stephanie O. Hubach and Joni Eareckson Tada (Sep 13, 2006) When the church attempts to function without all of its parts, the body of Christ becomes disabled. Same Lake, Different Boat is a transformational work--designed to renew our minds to think biblically about disability in order that our lives, our relationships, and our congregations might wholly reflect Christ.

29.Simple Strategies That Work! Helpful Hints for All Educators of Students With Asperger Syndrome, High-Functioning Autism, and Related Disabilities by Brenda Smith Myles, Diane Adreon and Dena Gitlitz (Jul 11, 2006) Children and adolescents with Asperger Syndrome and

high-functioning autism have great potential, but all too often their abilities are not realized. Simple Strategies That Work! provides effective approaches and strategies that teachers can take to help their student with AS/HFA on the road to success. The book also discusses problems that may arise in the inclusion classroom and how educators can make even small adjustments to accommodate their students with autism, while not interfering with standard classroom routines.

Resources for Clergy and Those Interested in the Theology of Disability30.Disabilities and the Gospel: How to Bring People with Special Needs

Closer to Christ by Danyelle Ferguson & Lynn Parsons (May 6, 2011) Each day, parents and Church leaders struggle to teach individuals with special needs. Using real-life stories and a touch of humor, this inspiring book guides you to teach effectively, overcome communication barriers, and build strong relationships with people of all ages with disabilities. Discover each person's ability to learn and grow as you help them feel like a valuable part of your life.

31.A Constructive Theology of Intellectual Disability: Human Being as Mutuality and Response by Molly Claire Haslam (Nov 1, 2011) Responding to how little theological research has been done on intellectual (as opposed to physical) disability, this book asks, on behalf of individuals with profound intellectual disabilities, what it means to be human. That question has traditionally been answered with an emphasis on an intellectual capacity the ability to employ concepts or to make moral choices and has ignored the value of individuals who lack such intellectual capacities. The author suggests, rather, that human being be understood in terms of participation in relationships of mutual responsiveness, which includes but is not limited to intellectual forms of communicating. She supports her argument by developing a phenomenology of how an individual with a profound intellectual disability relates, drawn from her clinical experience as a physical therapist. She thereby demonstrates that these individuals participate in relationships of mutual responsiveness, though in non-symbolic, bodily ways. To be human, to image God, she argues, is to respond to the world around us in any number of ways, bodily or symbolically. Such an understanding does not exclude people with intellectual disabilities but rather includes them among those who participate in the image of God.

32.Theology and Down Syndrome: Reimagining Disability in Late Modernity by Amos Yong, (Nov 1, 2007) While the struggle for disability rights has transformed secular ethics and public policy, traditional Christian teaching has been slow to account for disability in its theological imagination. Amos Yong crafts both a theology of disability and a theology informed by disability. The result is a Christian theology that not only connects with our present social, medical, and scientific understanding of disability but also one that empowers a set of best practices appropriate to our late modern context.

33.Practicing Witness: A Missional Vision of Christian Practices by Benjamin T. Conner (Jul 6, 2011) While the struggle for disability rights has transformed secular ethics and public policy, traditional Christian teaching has been slow to account for disability in its theological imagination. Amos Yong crafts both a theology of disability and a theology informed by disability. The result is a Christian theology that not only connects with our present social, medical, and scientific understanding of disability but also one that empowers a set of best practices appropriate to our late modern context.

Resources for Parents:34.More Than a Mom: Living a Full And Balanced Life When Your Child Has

Special Needs (Mom's Choice Awards Recipient) by Heather Fawcett and Amy Baskin (Apr 30, 2006) (2007 Independent Publisher Award, Bronze Medalist in Women's Issues category; 2006 Mom's Choice Awards, Finalist: Adult Books/Non-Fiction; 2006 Best Books Book Award, Parenting/Family Finalist) MORE THAN A MOM explores how women can lead rich, fulfilling personal lives while parenting a child with special needs. The authors' skillful blend of research, personal experiences, and feedback from over 500 mothers across North America results in a book that is jam-packed with practical strategies, advice, and reassurance for mothers trying to create more manageable and fulfilling lives. MORE THAN A MOM addresses the universal concerns and questions of all mothers, coupled with the added intensity of raising children with disabilities. This how-to guide looks at the challenges mothers face at home, at work, and within themselves, with special attention paid to: Staying healthy both physically and emotionally; Keeping friendships; Staying organized; Maintaining your marriage; Nurturing interests and goals; Seeking flexible work options; Changing careers or starting a business; Rejoining the workforce; Finding specialized childcare; Advocating for your child. The mothers who were interviewed for the book have diverse backgrounds and family dynamics. Given their differences and the fact that their children have such varied disabilities, it s striking that these mothers face such similar issues. MORE THAN A MOM provides mothers with many voices and solutions that will resonate with their own circumstances. Husbands, extended family, friends, support organizations, and service providers will also want to read this insightful and fact-filled book.

35.Freeing Your Child from Anxiety: Powerful, Practical Solutions to Overcome Your Child's Fears, Worries, and Phobias by Tamar Ellsas Chansky (Mar 30, 2004) Childhood should be a happy and carefree time, yet more and more children today are exhibiting symptoms of anxiety, from bedwetting and clinginess to frequent stomach aches, nightmares, and even refusing to go to school. Parents everywhere want to know: All children have fears, but how much is normal? How can you know when a stress has crossed over into a full-blown anxiety disorder? Most parents don’t know how to recognize when there is a real problem and how to deal with it when there is. In Freeing Your Child From Anxiety, a childhood anxiety disorder specialist examines all manifestations of childhood fears, including social anxiety, Tourette’s Syndrome, hair-pulling, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and guides you through a proven program to help your child back to emotional safety. No child is immune from the effects of stress in today’s media-saturated society. Fortunately, anxiety disorders are treatable. By following these simple solutions, parents can prevent their children from needlessly suffering today—and tomorrow.

36.Incredible 5-Point Scale Assisting Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Understanding Social Interactions and Controlling Their Emotional Responses by Kari Dunn Buron and Mitzi Curtis (Jan 1, 2004) This must-have resource shows how the use of a simple 5-point scale can help students understand and control their emotional reactions to everyday events. This book shows how to break down a given behavior and, with the student s active participation, develop a scale that identifies the problem and suggests alternative, positive behaviors at each level of the scale.

37.Married with Special-Needs Children: A Couples' Guide to Keeping Connected by Laura E. Marshak and Fran P. Prezant (Jan 5, 2007) (2007 iParenting Media/Excellent Products Award) At last, a guide that speaks to parents about how to work on marital issues while juggling the demands of raising a child with a developmental disability, serious medical condition, or mental illness. In writing this practical, empathetic guide, the authors draw on their combined professional experience in marital counseling and parent training, as well as on the experience and advice of hundreds of parents of children with special needs. Married with Special-Needs Children looks at the ways in which having a child with special needs can make it more difficult for a marriage to thrive and how a child's intensive needs can change the structure of a marriage. The authors examine many of the underlying stresses and common pitfalls --a couple's differing coping mechanisms and expectations of a child, communication breakdowns and difficulties resolving conflicts, for example. They then present a wide range of strategies for handling or preventing these problems. Marshak and Prezant also describe what makes a marriage strong, such as continuing to share connections outside of parenting roles, keeping a sense of autonomy, and sharing childcare responsibilities. Parents get advice about the importance of romance and intimacy and the benefits of finding time for each other even when they feel too tired or overwhelmed. In addition, the book deals with serious marital troubles and divorce considerations. Throughout are quotes from husbands and wives, offering special insight into what was especially difficult for them, what solutions they've discovered, and what they wished they'd done differently. For parents looking for ways to strengthen their marriage, prevent future strife, or resolve or move on from significant relationship difficulties, this guide offers guidance and expertise for taking the next step. Married with Special-Needs Children is also invaluable to mental health professionals, giving them a realistic view of what many of their clients are dealing with on a day-to-day basis.

38.Different Dream Parenting: A Practical Guide to Raising a Child with Special Needs by Jolene Philo (Nov 1, 2011) Parenting can be difficult and tiring, especially when you have a special needs child with medical, behavioral, or educational issues. In Different Dream Parenting, author Jolene Philo offers guidance and encouragement through biblical insights and her own personal experiences. Find spiritual wisdom, practical resources, and tools that can help you become an extraordinary advocate for your child. Discover how you can move beyond the challenges and experience the joy of being your child’s biggest and best supporter.

39.Faith, Family, and Children with Special Needs: How Catholic Parents and Their Kids with Special Needs Can Develop a Richer Spiritual Life by David Rizzo (Apr 1, 2012) It’s hard enough for today’s parents to raise faith-filled children. But for the parents of kids with special needs, the challenges can be almost overwhelming; these parents’ own spirituality may suffer amidst the daily obstacles of raising a child with disabilities, and they may wonder how—or even if—their child can ever experience a meaningful spiritual life. In Faith, Family, and Children with Special Needs, David Rizzo—whose 12-year-old daughter has autism—offers great hope for parents who want to grow in their own spirituality while helping their children with disabilities experience God in a deeper way. Throughout the book, Rizzo’s

abiding though sometimes tested Catholic faith is made clear as he thoughtfully explains everything from the practical, such as how parents can maintain sanity during Mass when the child with special needs becomes disruptive, to the profound, such as how parents can understand God in a way that is relevant to their predicament. At other times, Rizzo’s advice is intended to help the child grow in his or her own faith, as when he explains how kids with special needs can participate meaningfully in the Eucharist. By looking at big-picture issues of faith while also providing specific tips to nurture spiritual growth in parents and in their children with disabilities, Faith, Family, and Children with Special Needs will serve as a highly useful and inspiring resource for anyone in the community of faith who interacts with children with disabilities.

40.A Special Mother is Born: Parents Share How God Called Them to the Extraordinary Vocation of Parenting a Special Needs Child by Leticia Velasquez (Oct 20, 2011) If you are faced with a prenatal diagnosis or are raising a child with special needs, this book is for you. Thirty three parents who have walked in your shoes share how they encountered Christ alongside them in the darkness. You are not alone.

41.Autism's Hidden Blessings: Discovering God's Promises for Autistic Children & Their Families by Kelly Langston (Mar 9, 2009) Encouragement and inspiration for special needs familiesGod has a unique and magnificent purpose for every child-a purpose that is no less important for special-needs children. Through the story of her own ongoing struggles and victories raising her autistic son, Kelly Langston brings to light God's promises for exceptional kids and highlights covenants that assure special-needs parents of their children's potential and beauty.

42.1001 Great Ideas for Teaching and Raising Children with Autism or Asperger's, Revised and Expanded 2nd Edition by Ellen Notbohm, Veronica Zysk and Temple Grandin (Feb 28, 2010) Winner of Learning Magazine's Teachers Choice Award, the first edition of 1001 Great Ideas has been a treasured resource in the autism community since 2004. Now, in this expanded edition, Ellen Notbohm (best-selling author of the revolutionary book Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew) and Veronica Zysk (award-winning author and editor of Autism Asperger's Digest magazine) present parents and educators with over 1800 ideas try-it-now tips, eye-opening advice, and grassroots strategies. More than 600 fresh ideas join tried and true tactics from the original edition, while many ideas pick up where the first edition left off, offering modifications for older kids, honing in on Asperger's challenges, and enhancing already-effective ways to help your child or student achieve success at home, in school, and in the community. Time is money ... and this book saves you both. Your one-stop-shop of solutions, explanations, and strategies. Quickly find ideas that speak to the variety of developmental levels, learning styles, and abilities inherent in children with autism and Asperger's. Autism publications can be pricey, and many times readers only come away with a few key points per resource. Ellen and Veronica have saved you thousands of hours and dollars, blending knowledge from the most credible experts with their own invaluable wealth of humor, common sense, and experience. 1001 Great Ideas is the starting line you are looking for, the mother lode of strategies and inspiration you ll return to again and again. Don't let tradition and habit stand in the way of what your

child or student can do. Read this book first and you ll be well on your way to a bright future teaching and raising a child with autism or Asperger's.

43. Big Daddy's Tales From the Lighter Side of Raising a Kid With Autism: Never before published hilarity, favorite posts from the blog, marginally ... from some of Big Daddy's favorite bloggers. by F.Lewis Stark (Apr 21, 2011) What do elevators, beloved character actor Wilford Brimley, mall maps, flashing yellow traffic lights, the Weather Channel, and Allstate commercials have in common? Not much other than they all are on Griffin's list of favorite hobbies and interests. Over the years, Griffin has embraced these simple pleasures with the same passion some kids reserve for their favorite professional sports teams. Upon hearing Griffin’s diagnosis of autism over a decade ago, his parents felt as though their world ended. They often wished there was a resource available to show, in a lighthearted and humorous way, that having a child with a disability was not all gloom and doom but rather could be a lot of fun. First with his hilarious blog and now with this book, Griffin's dad has tried to fill this void, and launch a crusade, of sorts, to make the public aware that life doesn’t end with a diagnosis of a cognitive disability.

44.Wit and Wisdom from the Parents of Special Needs Kids: Mostly True Stories of Life on the Spectrum by Lynn Hudoba (Sep 13, 2011) Wit and Wisdom From The Parents of Special Needs Kids brings together dozens of the best writers in the blogosphere, sharing their stories of both the challenges and rewards of raising children with autism and other cognitive disabilities. More than forty essays are included in this unique compilation, covering topics such as sensory issues, the difficulties of social interaction, the impact on marriage and typical siblings, and the world of special education and therapies. These parents cover the gamut of experiences -- from initially receiving the diagnosis for their child and reconsidering their expectations for the future to learning how to let go of children as young adults – as well as an emotional spectrum from sadness and loss, to the frustrations of assimilating not-so-typical children into the typical world, to the joy of living amongst their often hilarious quirks and obsessions. Wit and Wisdom From The Parents of Special Needs Kids is a must read for anyone whose life has been affected by intellectual disabilities. Every parent of a special needs child will identify with the life experiences included in this book -- they are as varied, unique, and inspiring as the children themselves.

Resources for Children:45.We're Different, We're the Same (Sesame Street) by Bobbi Kates and

Joe Mathieu (Oct 13, 1992) Illustrated in full color. The colorful characters from Sesame Street teach young children about racial harmony. Muppets, monsters, and humans compare noses, hair, and skin and realize how different we all are. But as they look further, they also discover how much we are alike.

46.Making Friends Is an Art! by Julia Cook and Bridget Barnes (Mar 12, 2012) Meet Brown the least used pencil in the box. He s tall, geeky and lonely. Brown envies Red, Purple, Blue and all the other pencils who have fun coloring and playing together. Dark Green is trustworthy, Pink listens well, Orange has fun, and everybody likes Red! Brown doesn’t smile very often because he doesn’t get used much and hardly ever needs sharpening. When Brown asks the other pencils why no one likes him, he discovers that to have

friends, he needs to be a good friend. If Brown learns to use all of the friendship skills the other pencils have, he can make friends and have fun too! In her trademark humorous fashion, author Julia Cook teaches kids of all ages (and adults too!) how to practice the art of friendship and getting along with others. This title is the first in a Building Relationships series of books focusing on relationship-building skills for children. Included in the book are tips for parents and teachers on how to help children who feel left out and have trouble making friends.

47.The Special Needs Acceptance Book: Being a Friend to Someone with Special Needs. by Ellen Sabin (Jul 1, 2007) The Special Needs Acceptance Book is an interactive, educational, and character-building book that introduces children to the challenges faced by people with special needs while also supporting their personal journey toward appreciating and respecting people's differences. This book offers educational information, conversation-starters, and engaging exercises that invite children to "walk in someone else's shoes" as they learn to treat others the same ways they would like to be treated themselves. The book covers a range of disabilities including autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, cystic fibrosis, learning disabilities like dyslexia, ADHD, blindness and deafness. This book is much more than a book that teaches children about special needs. It uses informative narrative and engaging activities to help them develop understanding, compassion, and appreciation for people different from themselves. It lets them use their imagination and journal exercises to more fully comprehend some of the challenges people with special needs might face. It also empowers children by helping them understand the power of their actions and how they can be a good friend to others. Finally, it shows children that we are all different, all special, and all of us like to be accepted and understood!

48.The Autism Acceptance Book: Being a Friend to Someone With Autism by Ellen Sabin (2006) The Autism Acceptance Book is an interactive, educational, and character-building book that introduces children to the challenges faced by people with autism while also supporting their personal journey toward appreciating and respecting people's differences. This book offers educational information, conversation-starters, and engaging exercises that invite children to "walk in someone else's shoes" as they learn to treat others the same ways they would like to be treated themselves.

49.Arnie and His School Tools: Simple Sensory Solutions That Build Success by Jennifer Veenendall (Jan 1, 2008) Arnie and His School Tools: Simple Sensory Solutions to Build Success is an illustrated children's book about an exuberant little boy who had difficulty paying attention in class and doing his school work until he was equipped with the tools to accommodate his sensory needs. Written from Arnie's point of view, the book uses simple language to describe some of the sensory tools and strategies he uses at school and home to help him achieve a more optimal level of alertness and performance. Arnie and His School Tools creates an environment that is accepting of students with sensory modulation difficulties, including many on the autism spectrum. Occupational therapists, teachers and parents will find this book an engaging way to introduce elementary students to basic sensory tools used to help children focus in classroom settings, such as fidgets, chewy pencil toppers, and weighted vests. Additional resources are provided at the end of the book, including definitions of sensory processing and sensory

modulation disorder, suggested discussion questions, and lists of related books and websites.

50.Why Does Izzy Cover Her Ears? Dealing with Sensory Overload by Jennifer Veenendall (May 18, 2009) Meet Izzy, a feisty first grader, whose behavior is often misunderstood as she tries to cope with sensory overload in her new surroundings. This brightly illustrated book creates an environment that is accepting of students with sensory modulation difficulties, including many on the autism spectrum. It's a great resource for occupational therapists, teachers, and parents to share with children. Resources for adults at the end of the book include definitions of sensory processing and sensory modulation disorder, suggested discussion questions, and lists of related books and websites.

51.Squirmy Wormy: How I Learned to Help Myself by Lynda Farrington Wilson (Dec 1, 2009) Squirmy Wormy is a wonderful little children's book about a boy named Tyler, who has autism and SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder). Together with Tyler, the reader learns about SPD, and what every day easy therapies he can do by himself to feel better. For instance: "I feel like running really fast, run, run, run! Maybe I just need a s-q-u-e-e-z-e between the couch cushions like a hot dog. Whew! I feel better. "Endorsed by Dr. Temple Grandin, this book is sure to help many children, who perhaps previously did not even know they had SPD, lead calmer, richer lives.

52.The Chameleon Kid--Controlling Meltdown Before He Controls You by Elaine Marie Larson (Jul 9, 2008) An occasional meltdown is a reality of childhood for most children as well as their parents and teachers. But for a child with ASD, meltdowns are often frequent, explosive, long-lasting events. In The Chameleon Kid, the author encourages children to control the personalized Meltdown lurking inside by evoking the adaptable abilities of the chameleon. Supported by colorful cartoon-like illustrations, Elaine Marie Larson uses short verses to present the various reactions that the bad guy Meltdown can cause, followed by advice for how the Chameleon Kid can adapt his emotions and attitudes to prevent Meltdown from taking over. In the process, readers learn various methods of self-regulating their emotion. The Chameleon Kid also explains more than a dozen idioms related to emotions, such as have a cow, take a hike, and stubborn as a mule.

53.When My Worries Get Too Big! A Relaxation Book for Children Who Live with Anxiety by Kari Dunn Buron (May 1, 2006) The thought of losing control can cause major problems for children who live with anxiety. Now, parents, teachers and children have a helpful tool that gives young children an opportunity to explore their own feelings with parents or teachers as they react to events in their daily lives. Engaging and easy to read, this illustrated children s book is filled with opportunities for children to participate in developing their own self-calming strategies. Children who use the simple strategies in this charming book, illustrated by the author, will find themselves relaxed and ready to focus on work or play!

54.What's That Look on Your Face? All About Faces and Feelings by Catherine S. Snodgrass (Oct 1, 2008) Recognizing and interpreting facial expressions and the feelings they represent poses great challenges for children with language and communication difficulties, including those with an autism spectrum disorder. This strikingly illustrated book helps young readers link faces to feelings by presenting situations they can all relate to. Each page

spread is devoted to a feeling expressed through an exaggerated facial expression accompanied by a short poem that further elaborates on the expression to reinforce its meaning.

55.Sensitive Sam: Sam's Sensory Adventure Has a Happy Ending! by Marla Roth-Fisch (Feb 1, 2009) Appropriate for children, families, and professionals, this wonderful book brings to life the story of Sam, whose over-sensitivity creates chaos and frustration in his life. Sam's various sensory sensitivities adversely affect Sam's experiences, both at home and in the classroom. He walks readers through his typical day of sensory blunders (which many kids and families may find all too familiar!). Finally, at the suggestion of Sam's teacher, his parents take Sam to see an occupational therapist. Sam describes the process in a non-threatening, child's perspective that is sure to sooth young readers who may be facing the same challenges. With occupational therapy, a new "sensory diet," and the love and support of his family, Sam concludes: "Treating sensory challenges takes some patience, and love, too. And now I LIKE doing lots of things I used to hate to do!"

56.What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid's Guide to Overcoming Anxiety (What to Do Guides for Kids) by Dawn Huebner and Bonnie Matthews (Sep 1, 2005) Guides children and parents through the cognitive-behavioral techniques most often used in the treatment of anxiety. This interactive self-help book is the complete resource for educating, motivating, and empowering kids to overcome their overgrown worries.

57.What to Do When Your Temper Flares: A Kid's Guide to Overcoming Problems With Anger (What to Do Guides for Kids) by Dawn Huebner and Bonnie Matthews (Oct 15, 2007) Did you know that anger is like fire? It starts with a spark, igniting us with energy and purpose. But it can also blaze out of control, causing lots of problems. If you're a kid whose temper quickly flares, a kid whose anger gets too big, too hot, too fast, this book is for you. What to Do When Your Temper Flares guides children and their parents through the cognitive-behavioral techniques used to treat problems with anger. Engaging examples, lively illustrations, and step-by-step instructions teach children a set of "anger dousing" methods aimed at cooling angry thoughts and controlling angry actions, resulting in calmer, more effective kids. This interactive self-help book is the complete resource for educating, motivating, and empowering children to work toward change.

58.Wilma Jean the Worry Machine by Julia Cook and Anita DuFalla (Jan 15, 2012) (Grades 2-5) Anxiety is a subjective sense of worry, apprehension, and/or fear. It is considered to be the number one health problem in America. Although quite common, anxiety disorders in children are often misdiagnosed and overlooked. Everyone feels fear, worry and apprehension from time to time, but when these feelings prevent a person from doing what he/she wants and/or needs to do, anxiety becomes a disability. This fun and humorous book addresses the problem of anxiety in a way that relates to children of all ages. It offers creative strategies for parents and teachers to use that can lessen the severity of anxiety. The goal of the book is to give children the tools needed to feel more in control of their anxiety. For those worries that are not in anyone’s control (i.e., the weather,) a worry hat is introduced. A fun read for Wilmas of all ages!

59.What to Do When You're Scared and Worried: A Guide for Kids by James J. Crist (Jan 15, 2004) From a dread of spiders to panic attacks, kids have worries and fears, just like adults. This is a book kids can turn to when they need advice, reassurance, and ideas. They’ll find out where fears and worries come from, practice Fear Chasers and Worry Erasers, and learn to seek help for hard-to-handle fears they can’t manage on their own.

60. I Just Don't Like the Sound of No! My Story About Accepting No for an Answer and Disagreeing the Right Way! (Best Me I Can Be) by Julia Cook and Kelsey De Weerd (Aug 15, 2011) NO is RJ s least favorite word . . . and he tries his best to convince his dad, his mom, and his teacher to turn No into Maybe or We ll see or Later or I ll think about it. Even though he doesn’t have much success, RJ keeps arguing until his teacher suggests that he try to join her classroom s Say YES to NO Club. If RJ can learn how to accept No for an answer and to disagree appropriately with his teacher and parents, he can add his name to the club s Star Board. RJ finds that lots of praise and some rewards come his way when he uses these skills the right way! Author Julia Cook helps K-6 readers laugh and learn along with RJ as he understands the benefits of demonstrating these social skills both at home and in school. Tips for parents and educators on how to teach and encourage kids to use the skills of accepting No for an answer and disagreeing appropriately are included in the book. I Just Don t Like the Sound of NO! is another title in the BEST ME I Can Be! series of books from the Boys Town Press to teach children social skills that can make home life happier and school more successful. This book is also available with an accompanying CD audio book, read by the author. Winner of the 2011 MOM's Choice Award Honoring Excellence and the National Parenting Center's 'Seal of Approval.

61.My Friend Has Down Syndrome (Let's Talk about It (Barron)) by Jennifer Moore-Mallinos and Marta Fabrega (Oct 1, 2008) The sensitively written Let's Talk About It Books encourage preschool-age and early-grades children to explore their feelings, deal with problems that trouble them, and understand others who have problems of their own. Each title speaks to a particular concern that children might encounter in the course of growing up. All books in this series have appealing color illustrations on every page, and are available in both English and Spanish language editions. A short section at the back of each book offers related advice to parents. My Friend Has Down Syndrome describes a condition that affects many families. Younger children are normally puzzled when they encounter other kids who suffer from Down Syndrome. Here is a heartwarming and reassuring story of how an ordinary child comes to understand and befriend another child who has Down Syndrome.

62.My Friend Isabelle by Eliza Woloson and Bryan Gough (Oct 1, 2003) (2004 iParenting Media Award Winner) Isabelle and Charlie are friends. They both like to draw, dance, read, and play at the park. They both like to eat Cheerios. They both cry if their feelings are hurt. And, like most friends, they are also different from each other. Isabelle has Down syndrome. Charlie doesn't. Written by Isabelle's mother, this charming tale encourages readers to think about what makes a friendship special. MY FRIEND ISABELLE also opens the door for young children to talk about differences and the world around them. It's a wonderful story to read at bedtime or to share at school. Lively full color illustrations dovetail beautifully with the text to bring the simple story to life.

63.*In Jesse's Shoes by Beverly Lewis (Oct 1, 2007) In this picture book, New York Times best-selling author helps children learn to understand and appreciate those with special needs. Ages 4-9.

64. *My Brother Charlie by Holly Robinson Peete, Ryan Elizabeth Peete and Shane Evans (Mar 16, 2010) From bestselling author and actress Holly Robinson Peete--a heartwarming story about a boy who happens to be autistic, based on Holly's son, who has autism."Charlie has autism. His brain works in a special way. It's harder for him to make friends. Or show his true feelings. Or stay safe." But as his big sister tells us, for everything that Charlie can't do well, there are plenty more things that he's good at. He knows the names of all the American presidents. He knows stuff about airplanes. And he can even play the piano better than anyone he knows.Actress and national autism spokesperson Holly Robinson Peete collaborates with her daughter on this book based on Holly's 10-year-old son, who has autism.

With appreciation to Joyce Davison, librarian at St. George’s Episcopal in La Canada, CA, for recommending those * above, and the titles that follow. (Joyce has also been associated with an equine therapy program for disabled, disadvantaged and special needs children called AHEAD With Horses, since 1982 - there “we teach children throughout Los Angeles and the surrounding cities to lead wonderful lives.”)

65. Not My Boy!: a father, a son, and one family’s journey with Autism by Rodney Peete, c2010, Hyperion Publishers.A candid look inside a father’s journey with his son’s autism and a first-of-its-kind, inspirational road map that will help families facing similar challenges move forward.

66. What’s Wrong With Timmy? by Maria Shiver, c2001, Little Brown & Co.Making friends with a mentally retarded boy helps Katie learn that the two of them have a lot in common. This is a good introduction for children welcoming a disabled child into their school or neighborhood.

67.Many Ways to Learn: a guide to learning disabilities (LD) by Judith M. Stern, c2011, Magination PressThe book explains the many ways that learning disabilities affect children at school, at home, and with friends. It is laid out well with a clear division of subjects, easy-to-read bullet points and illustrations. It contains beneficial information which many suggestion for ways in which adults can help children.

Films available about AUTISM from Netflix – most are documentaries:

Autism: The MusicalAutism: Made in the USAThe Autism EnigmaAutism Every DayThe United States of AutismMy World Learning: Autism Learning ToolsA Mother’s Courage: Talking Back to Autism

Normal People Scare Me

Aut-erobics (kids’ fitness)Temple Grandin (with Claire Danes; based on a true story)

Following an excellent seminar presented on November 9, 2013, at Trinity, Orange, by Debra Ann Afarian (Community Educator, Coach, and Certified THINK:KIDS Mentor, with United Cerebral Palsy of Orange County), she recommended the following resources for “Helping the Behaviorally Challenging Child”:

Read the books "The Explosive Child" or "Lost at School" by Ross Greene Visit the websites www.livesinthebalance.org or www.thinkkids.org Dr. Ablon on the THINK:KIDS philosophy: www.youtube.com/watch?

v=GAgAO7FEil4

An autistic teenager who finds her voice: a window into how Challenging kids think: http://www.tvkim.com/watch/357/kims-picks-mute-autistic-girl-finds-a-voice

Below are some video clips from FRONT OF THE CLASS .... the Lifetime channel series t based on a true story of a young man named Brad Kohen. Replace his challenge, Touretts, with whatever challenge your child or students face. 

The goal of working with challenging children is help them reach their maximum potential -- in increments they can handle!!

Brad was told many times to just “stop it” and that he was disruptive on purpose …. the movie is based on his autobiographical story. 

Some of the story of Brad Kohen....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-4yVdlZSf8&feature=related

How did Mom handle things?.....By advocating for him and teaching him to advocate for himself.... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EuhyVHLlfXE&feature=fvw

 Here's a clip from when he finally does become the teacher he never had.....it's not easy to have challenges, but Brad handles things .... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBKVGLKKK2c&feature=related

Note in this clip how when Brad is relaxed he doesn't have so many tics.....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=insu46QDTeY&feature=related

 Here's a clip of the movie..... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJLlTC8cBC8

Debra Ann also offers special programs, some without cost.