How Everyone on the Autism Spectrum, Young and Old, Can Become Resilient, Be More Optimistic, Enjoy Humour, Be Kind, and Increase Self-Efficacy

This new approach to working with children and young people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) fosters the characteristics that will be most useful to them in society and in life in general, dramatically enhancing their quality of life. Children with ASD often have difficulties with communication, emotional regulation, anxiety, executive functioning, and building relationships. Positive psychology – an approach which encourages individuals to foster positive emotions and character traits – can improve their life in every way, and help to strengthen their ability to cope with everyday challenges and setbacks in these areas.

The authors provide an accessible explanation of the theory behind the positive psychology approach. They look at five common character traits in turn – resilience, optimism, kindness, self-efficacy, and humor – and offer tried-and-tested strategies for bolstering each strength. The second part of the book contains rich and varied lesson plans with activities designed to build on the five areas identified, and which can be easily implemented at home, at school, or in the community.