This highly visual social skills book uses computer metaphors and visual diagrams to help children on the autism spectrum to understand how their words and actions can affect other people. Easily identifiable computing and social networking metaphors are used to explain how memories are saved in the brain, like files in computer folders, and how, just as files can be shared and downloaded on the internet, people learn about you by sharing their positive and negative impressions with each other. The author explains why certain actions may be ‘liked’ or ‘disliked’ by others, and offers guidance on appropriate and inappropriate social behaviour. This book also features photocopiable worksheets to reinforce the guidance and lessons offered in the book.

Contents:

• Introduction.
• 1. Part 1: What People’s Brains Think About.
• 2. Part 2: What Computers and Brains Remember.
• 3. Part 3: The Network of Minds and People’s Thoughts About You.
• 4. Part 4: Exploring Other People’s Likes and Dislikes.
• 5. Part 5: Games and Learning Activities.

Author Bio:

Joel Shaul is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in ASDs. Through his organization, Autism Teaching Strategies, he provides workshops on social skills teaching and mental health treatment methods. He is co-creator of Ryuu social skills products, and author of numerous books.

Review:

‘Joel is a master in teaching social skills. His latest book helps children with Autism to develop an understanding that everyone has their own take on reality. By likening the brain to a computer and incorporating the clever use of visuals, this book is sure to resonate with those on the spectrum. Deciding on whether to buy it should be a no-brainer!’ – Kay Al-Ghani, Specialist Advisory Teacher and author.