Parent Press

a Goally Publication

Get

Goally

Unlocking Autism: The 9 Best Books Every Parent Needs to Read

Apr 24, 2024

4 min read

Books for parents of autistic child: A mom kisses the side of her smiling child's head.

In an exciting literary breakthrough, a groundbreaking list of the 9 best books on autism for parents has been unveiled, promising to be a lifeline for the millions of caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising neurodivergent children. This carefully curated collection not only offers enlightening insights but also provides a powerful source of empowerment for families on their journey. With a staggering 1 in 44 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, these inspiring reads vow to resonate deeply with the lived experiences of parents, equipping them with the tools and understanding they desperately seek. As word of these transformative books spreads, a wave of hope and support is set to sweep across households worldwide.

Goally | Visual Scheduler for Autism

Does your child struggle with getting ready in the morning independently? Goally’s routine app on the best tablet for kids breaks down large tasks into small, achievable steps for autistic kids. Create custom routines with your own videos & pictures for every step.

These handpicked gems offer invaluable insights from experts and fellow parents alike, providing practical advice and heartfelt stories to help navigate the challenges and celebrate the triumphs. So why wait? Let’s explore these must-reads together and set sail on an incredible literary adventure tailored specifically for those who care deeply about their extraordinary kids.

1. The Loving Push: How Parents and Professionals Can Help Spectrum Kids Become Successful Adults

Authors: Dr. Temple Grandin and Debra Moore, Ph.D.

This insightful book offers fresh ideas on how to encourage growth in neurodivergent kids by gently nudging them out of their comfort zones. Drawing from personal experiences and professional expertise, the authors provide useful strategies for fostering independence and resilience in your child.

  • Focuses on life skills, social interactions, career development
  • Offers tips for managing anxiety while promoting self-reliance
Books for parents of autistic child: A mom reads a book that is helpful for parents who have autistic children.
Read more: Does My Kid Have Autism?

2. Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism

Author: Dr. Barry M. Prizant

Uniquely Human presents an empathetic approach to understanding autism by emphasizing each autistic person’s individuality rather than focusing solely on their diagnosis.

  • Encourages embracing unique strengths instead of just addressing challenges
  • Highlights building trust-based relationships with autistic individuals

3. NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity

Author: Steve Silberman

This groundbreaking book delves into autism research history while advocating for a more inclusive society that celebrates neurodiversity.

  • Explores misconceptions surrounding autism throughout history
  • Discusses how societal attitudes towards neurodivergent individuals have evolved over time

4. Parenting without Panic: A Pocket Support Group for Parents of Children with Asperger’s Syndrome (ASD)

Author: Brenda Dater

Parenting without Panic is like having a support group right at your fingertips! This guide offers practical advice based on real-life experiences from fellow parents raising children with ASD.

  • Covers topics such as communication, sensory issues, school challenges, friendships, and more
  • Includes relatable stories that offer encouragement during difficult moments

5. 10 Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew

Author: Ellen Notbohm

This book provides a unique perspective by sharing insights directly from the viewpoint of an autistic child, helping parents understand their child’s thoughts and feelings.

  • Covers sensory processing, communication challenges, social skills
  • Offers actionable tips to support your child’s growth and development

6. The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year-Old Boy with Autism

Author: Naoki Higashida

The Reason I Jump offers a rare glimpse into the mind of an autistic teenager through his own words. This captivating memoir will deepen your understanding of autism while inspiring empathy for those who experience it.

  • Provides first-hand experiences from an autistic individual
  • Explores topics such as sensory overload, communication barriers, emotional regulation
A mom reads one of many books for parents of autistic child.

7. Raising Resilient Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Strategies for Maximizing Their Strengths, Coping with Adversity, and Developing a Social Mindset

Authors: Dr. Robert Brooks and Dr. Sam Goldstein

This comprehensive guide focuses on building resilience in children with ASD by nurturing their strengths and fostering positive self-esteem.

  • Discusses practical strategies for promoting social competence
  • Addresses common challenges faced by neurodivergent kids in various settings

8. Engaging Autism: Using the Floortime Approach to Help Children Relate, Communicate, and Think

Authors: Stanley I Greenspan M.D., Serena Wieder Ph.D.

Engaging Autism introduces the innovative Floortime approach that emphasizes play-based interactions to promote social-emotional development in children with autism spectrum disorders.

  • Explains how to create customized learning environments tailored to each child’s needs
  • Offers guidance on supporting language development through play activities

9. A Parent’s Guide to High-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (Second Edition): How to Meet the Challenges & Help Your Child Thrive

Authors: Sally Ozonoff Ph.D., Geraldine Dawson Ph.D., James C. McPartland Ph.D.

This comprehensive guide offers research-based strategies to help parents support their high-functioning autistic children in various aspects of life, from social skills to academic success.

  • Covers topics such as daily routines, behavior management, sibling relationships
  • Provides practical tips for navigating the school system and advocating for your child’s needs

Goally | For Kids Who Hate Bedtime 😴😡

Goally kids tablet makes bedtime easy with bedtime routines completely controlled by the parent.

To sum it up, these 9 outstanding books for parents of autistic child provide a treasure trove of knowledge and support for caregivers and parents of neurodivergent kids. As you explore the insights within their pages, keep in mind that each child is distinctive, and your experiences will be equally special. Let these resources guide you in nurturing your extraordinary kids’ growth while fostering a deeper appreciation for their unique perspectives. Happy reading!

This post was originally published on 04/17/2023. It was updated on 06/27/2023.

Article by

Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.