Individuals with autism and their caregivers face unique challenges in later childhood and adolescence, yet this period is often neglected in the professional literature. This much-needed unique volume translates current research on the needs of this population into practical recommendations for clinicians and educators. Featuring vivid case examples and an in-depth, reproducible assessment form, the book comprehensively addresses the many contexts of children's lives. Accessible guidance and hands-on suggestions are provided for:

• Supporting positive behavior, communication, and social skills
• Managing issues related to mental and physical health and sexuality
• Helping families access services and navigate the legal system
• Optimizing the educational and transition planning process

301 pps

"A wonderful resource for educators and mental health professionals, this book is filled with practical and helpful guidance covering a range of issues. It provides concise summaries of information and intervention strategies relevant to older children, adolescents, and adults with autism. The volume will also be of tremendous benefit to parents. A real contribution to the field."

-Fred R. Volkmar, MD, Yale Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine

"This wonderfully innovative volume should be a first resource for anyone interested in the complexities of the world of persons with autism, their families, and service providers. The impressive group of outstanding scholars and clinicians from many different fields contribute compelling insights about the ways that we can all work toward optimizing the quality of life of persons with autism."

-Jake Burack, PhD, McGill University and H'pital Rivi're-des-Prairies, Montreal, Quebec, Canada