Engaging Autism by Stanley I. Greenspan and Serena Wieder - Essay Example

            The book presented views on neuroscience research and methods for the parents to be able to cope with the effects of autism. The book started in Part I with the presentation of the myths, facts, early signs, and new frameworks.  The authors were able to redefine the condition of autism in a manner that can open the mind of the public to the possibilities and importance of seeking treatments and interventions (Greenspan & Wieder 3).  By presenting the myths and misconceptions regarding the autisms, clarification had been achieved (p.12).  In addition, the first part presented the updated signs and symptoms of ASD.  One way is through the detection of the condition even during the early stages of childhood and infancy which is undertaken through the determination of their risk factor (p.28).  One of the most important concepts presented in the fourth chapter is the DIR/Floortime model which had been improved by Greenspan and Wieder in the manner by which positive parameters are the main focus. Instead of labeling the fixed development of the patient, goal setting is case dependent.  The determination of progress then is considered to be comparatively more flexible.  Through the activities such as observation, method of approach, following the child’s lead, extension and expansion of play and letting the child decide in closing the circle of communication, the improvements in the capability of the child with ASD can be achieved (p.36).

            The second part of the book is about the empowerment of the family in terms of coping with the experiences of a family member with autism.  The first concept taken into consideration is the “family first” notion that presented the essential role of the family in the life of the child or the person with autism (p.57).  The said part of the book had been dedicated to educating the family in the manner of relating, communicating and thinking to be able to grasp and better understand the persons with ASD.  From the establishment of attention and engagement to the onset of two-way or interactive communication, the second part of the book is an important reference (p.65-90).  The remaining part of Part II is related to the guidelines for a better understanding of the indications that can be encountered such as symbols, ideas, and words that can elicit the need for logical, abstract and reflective thinking.  There is also an exploration of the different senses as experienced by the person with ASD for a better understanding of the people around him/her (p.91).

            Parts III and IV of the book are the in-depth and detailed presentation of the concepts, methods, and techniques related to the Floortime (part III) and the DIR (part IV) models (p.163-200).  Part V, then, is the presentation of the practical tips and guidelines that can help the guardians of the person with autism to cope with the difficult symptoms.  This part can be considered as one of the most important information in the book since the concepts presented can be applied in real situations.  The first chapters of the fifth part are related to the behavioral aspects (p.301-20).  Chapter 24 is a discussion of the different practical capabilities such as eating, toilet training, getting dressed and other challenges specifically the new ones (p.322).  After the lessons related to practical situations, the book discussed behavioral parameters and the manners of coping with the emotions (p.334-360).  In addition, the focus on meltdowns and regressions as well as the development of social skills had been highlighted in the last part (p.360-78).  This can be attributed to the fact that behavioral and emotional aspects have the most influence on the activities and attitudes of the person with ASD.

            Upon reading and reviewing the book, there are different points that can be presented, which are generally positive.  This is based on the authors’ exploration of both the theoretical and practical aspects of ASD.  Engaging Autism can be considered as an eye-opener in terms of the concepts, definitions, and guidelines that can increase the consciousness of the public and the capability of the people with close interaction to ASD to handle the different situations that can arise in related to the condition.  The book had been successful in presenting a pragmatic and clear perspective of the condition.  Another positive point is the inspirational tone of the authors in presenting the stories that can motivate the readers to overcome the challenges of ASD.  It is also encompassing in terms of the issues discussed, thus, the readers can achieve a general and holistic view of the condition.  Aside from covering the concepts, it also presented cases of children of different levels and ages which is fundamental in the presentation of a generalized view. 

            There are criticisms that can be pointed out in the book though.  One can be related to the incorporation of numerous topics which resulted in the readers’ difficulty in finding pertinent information.  Another is the negative effect of the pragmatic presentation which can be translated as prejudice to the hardships of the family members to cope with the needs of the child with ASD.

            In conclusion, the book Engaging Autism by Stanley I. Greenspan and Serena Wieder is an essential reference and guidebook in managing ASD and in dealing with the issues related to the condition.  The authors had also been successful in imparting the knowledge of the concepts and practical techniques for ASD-related behaviors.