Autism and Asperger Syndrome in Childhood by Dr Luke Beardon - Non Fiction - Paperback

Details:
Condition: BRAND NEW
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781399805391
Publisher: Sheldon Press

Overview
Written by leading autism expert Dr Luke Beardon, this compassionate and accessible guide is designed specifically for parents and carers navigating a new autism or Asperger Syndrome diagnosis in their child. Combining decades of academic and practical experience, Beardon gently dispels common myths, answers the questions families ask first, and offers a warm, honest introduction to understanding what a diagnosis really means for the whole family.

About the Book
Receiving an autism or Asperger Syndrome diagnosis for a child can feel overwhelming, especially for parents and carers who know little about either condition. This book was written to fill that gap with clarity and compassion rather than jargon. Dr Luke Beardon draws on his extensive experience as a senior lecturer in autism studies to walk readers through the practical realities of a new diagnosis: what it means, how to support a child's unique needs, and how to challenge outdated stereotypes that so often surround autism and Asperger Syndrome. Rather than presenting autism as a problem to be fixed, the book champions a neurodiversity-affirming approach, encouraging parents to see their child's difference as a valuable part of who they are. Chapters cover everyday challenges such as communication, sensory sensitivities, school and family life, alongside strategies for building confidence and reducing anxiety for both child and parent. The tone throughout is empathetic and reassuring, written by someone who has spent his career advocating for autistic people and their families. It is widely regarded as one of the most trusted first books for families encountering autism for the first time, offering both emotional support and genuinely useful, evidence-informed guidance that can be returned to again and again as a family's understanding grows.

• Written by a leading UK autism academic and advocate, Dr Luke Beardon
• Clear, jargon-free guidance for parents and carers of newly diagnosed children
• Busts common myths and misconceptions around autism and Asperger Syndrome
• Promotes a positive, neurodiversity-affirming understanding of autism
• Practical, reassuring advice for everyday family life
• Ideal gift for new or expectant parents of an autistic child

About the Author
Dr Luke Beardon is a Senior Lecturer at the Autism Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, and a service coordinator with the National Autistic Society. He holds a Doctor of Education degree and has spent his career championing the neurodiversity paradigm, helping autistic people and their families to thrive. He has written and edited numerous respected books on autism across the lifespan, and is a widely respected voice in autism advocacy and education in the UK.

Why You'll Love This Book
Honest, reassuring and free of jargon, this book gives parents and carers exactly what they need after a new diagnosis - real understanding, practical support, and a positive new way of seeing their child.

Please Note: Book cover, ISBN and edition may vary slightly from the image shown, but this is the correct UK edition as listed.