The books that helped us as our autistic kids grew up; from pre-school to teenager

I was pretty sure that our eldest was autistic before he was diagnosed. But it was still an odd feeling to hear it confirmed.  The paediatrician seemed to be expecting tears or questions and it made me feel nervous - it made the diagnosis feel like an occasion.

Summer book ideas for the kids that will get them doing things

Books are great for many kids including those with autism.  They are great because they can give kids a starter for their imagination and they often provide the security of a routine - a story is the same each time you read it. So how can we use books to create more activities to expand their use during the holidays?

What Roald Dahl reveals to my autistic son

I remember reading both the Magic Finger and Fantastic Mr Fox at school.  Honestly I couldn't remember much about the stories except that I was pretty sure they involved some magic.  So I'm not surprised that Anthony has also been reading, or at least listening to these books at school too.  But I am surprised that he learned so much from Roald Dahl himself.

Holiday books - for the kids

Summer.  Are you lounging by the pool with a good book?  Are your kids?  No?  Well don't worry if they are. While I may be loving my copy of Talking Autism: Parenting Your Unique Child, many people read in the holidays to escape. And this can be the case for kids too.

Forest phonics fun in Bushy Park

I can't really believe Jane will be starting school in September. But there is no doubt she is ready for it. Perhaps having two older brothers has encouraged her but there is no doubt she is a girl that enjoys learning.  In a way she is always being taught to.  Her brother, David, is autistic and pre-verbal so we spend time shaping sounds and now looking at letters.  When Jane and I were walking around Bushy Park this week, she found a 'stick letter'.  And then had fun looking for letters and sounds as an impromtu activity that you can try too.