A groundbreaking exploration of the ways in which the intelligence and
abilities of children and young adults with autism are often overlooked
and misjudged, with tried-and-true interventions that can be used to
help them reach their full potential.
Our limited and often biased view of what's considered "normal" often
prevents us from recognizing the gifts and brilliance of those who don't
fit a specific mold. Too often we don't explore and take advantage of
the far-reaching gifts and potential of those diagnosed as being on the
autism spectrum or neurodiverse. Dr. Lynn Kern Koegel has had vast
experience researching Autism Spectrum Disorders--ASD--and working with
autistic people of all ages. She has repeatedly witnessed firsthand
evidence of great intelligence that hasn't yet been nurtured or
realized.In Hidden Brilliance, Dr. Koegel and writer Claire LaZebnik
explore the ways in which the brilliance and talents of children and
young adults diagnosed with ASD are commonly overlooked or misjudged,
even by trained professionals. This book isn't about changing people,
but about bringing out their best, by focusing on and nurturing their
strengths. The authors examine the forces at play--including outdated
attitudes, a lack of sufficient training, and an overreliance on
standardized testing--that complicate and confuse the effort to see the
remarkable capabilities of these kids. The authors argue that behaviors
often described as disruptive or interfering are actually brilliant
attempts at communication and point the reader toward interventions that
can encourage people to effectively communicate their needs and
thoughts. Hidden Brilliance helps us see how and why parents--who
often feel alone in their ability to see past their children's struggles
to the incredible capabilities underneath --are often dismissed or
ignored.
This long overdue book explains ways to identify your child's strengths
and abilities and then use them as a tool for social communication,
improved learning, and overall growth. While no one can predict a
child's future, a positive and supportive attitude combined with the
right goals and interventions that consider the child's strengths can
lead to extraordinary growth and connection. Warm and hopeful, Hidden
Brilliance opens the door to a new way of looking at people diagnosed
with ASD--those who deserve to have their brilliance shine brightly for
all to see.
