Parenting Across the Autism Spectrum

Autism Society of America Outstanding Literary Work of the Year 2007

'As forthright and enabling as Dr. Spock.'
- Kirkus Reviews

Maureen F. Morrell and Ann Palmer are raising two very different children: Justin, a whirlwind of activity and mood swings, who is supervised in a residential farm community, and Eric, quiet and passive, who lives independently at college. The authors give an account of the striking similarities as well as the stark differences in their experiences of parenting children at opposite extremes of the autism spectrum.

The two mothers speak openly about their children's diagnosis and early childhood through to adolescence, young adulthood and the day they leave home. They give a moving account of the challenges they faced and the surprising consolations they found along their sons' very different paths in life. Through their friendship and two decades of shared experiences of parenting an ASD child, each has gained a clear understanding of her own strengths and limitations, as well as those of her child.

Parenting Across the Autism Spectrum offers a personal perspective and practical guidance for parents at the start of their journey with autism, especially those whose children are newly diagnosed. It also provides useful insights for professionals working with individuals across the autism spectrum and their families.

"With heavy dosages of courage and a fearless look into how autism has affected their lives, Ann and Maureen provide, in harmony and counterpoint, a model of how families can live with and help children with autism reach their potential to lead fulfilling and productive lives in what ultimately becomes a supportive environment for all."
- Stephen Shore, author of Beyond the Wall: Personal Experiences with Autism and Asperger Syndrome and Board member of the Autism Society of America