Quick Look
Challenges the assumption that autism is a condition which places the child's inner development beyond the reach of parents and carers.
Description
Educating and caring for an autistic child is a severely difficult task, too often associated with frustration and disappointment. As a result, autism is widely assumed to be a condition which places the child's inner development beyond the reach of parents and carers.
The books challenges this assumption, quoting case studies where curative education based on a holistic approach has resulted in marked improvements in the autistic individual's behaviour and social integration. With an extended holistic programme, the autistic child comes to discover inner self-awareness and self-recognition, leading to first steps in relationships and social skills.
The authors describe in detail their own practical experiences with these therapies, as well as the findings of other experts in the field to back up their discoveries. Well-researched and movingly written in its personal case histories, this book has an essential message for all those involved in the care and education of autistic children.
Reviews
'This is a very encouraging book for those dealing with autism, and though written for parents, caretakers and educators of the autistic child, there is much in it of importance for how we approach the needs of young children with even minor developmental difficulties.'
-- Light Magazine, Winter 2000
'Well organized and clearly written. This book draws on the rich experience and insights of doctors gained over decades as well as individuals who experience autism themselves. We can be most grateful to have access to this first anthroposophical book in the English language devoted to autism.'
-- Ingelore Maier, Journey for Anthroposophy, 2001
'Bob Woodward sets out clearly and in a lively, readable style his ideas, methods and results. This book could form the basis of some lively discussion at parents meeting.'
-- Anthea Hailey, Camphill Pages, 2000
'We have much to learn from the teachings of Rudolf Steiner and Bob Woodward's application of them to working with children with autism. This book is an excellent introduction to the ideas and practice as they relate to autism.'
-- Dr Lorna Wing, Camphill Correspondence, 2001
'I would recommend this excellent well-researched book be on the bookshelf of every curative educator, therapist and doctor who is attempting to understand and care for those individuals who suffer from autism.'
-- Jean Brown, Anthroposophical Medical Newsletter, 2000
Author
Bob Woodward, MEd, MPhil has lived with and taught children with severe learning difficulties, including children with autism, since 1970. He works at the Sheiling School in Gloucestershire.
Dr Marga Hogenboom lives and works at the Camphill Rudolf Steiner School near Aberdeen and is one of the directors of the Camphill Medical Practice.
Links
Also by Bob Woodward:
Spirit Healing
