1st Edition
Supporting Neurodivergent Children and Families A Practitioner's Guide
Supporting Neurodivergent Children and Families presents an innovative blueprint using academic literature, research and theory, to provide a best practice approach in equipping practitioners to support neurodivergent children and their families.
The knowledge and insight provided in this book allows practitioners to effectively create supportive environments and plan appropriate practice responses, whilst never changing the child. By altering the system perspective and transcending the physical boundaries of space where the interaction occurs, a supportive environment is created, thus providing more positive outcomes. The blend of practice experiences, tangible case studies and theory prompts the reader to critically reflect on their practice and potentially integrate new, innovative changes to their approach.
This comprehensive and thought-provoking read is not only ideal for students and professionals who interact with neurodiverse families, but also practitioners and educators looking to alter their practical approach to understanding neurodivergent children and their families.
1. An Introduction to Neurodiversity 2. The Autistic Child and their Family 3.The Dyspraxia Child and their Family 4. The ADHD Child and their Family 5. Creating Supportive Environments 6. Communication in the Context of Creating Supportive Environments 7. Making Each Contact Count 8. Managing Conflict with Parents 9. Evidence-Based Practice 10. Parental Wellbeing 11. The Role of Advocacy 12. Family Support 13. Reflective Practice 14. Practitioner Self-Care
Biography
Dr. Lhara Mullins is a lecturer at the University of Galway in Ireland, has a PhD in health promotion and an MA in social work. Her own experiences as a neurodivergent academic, with a background in social work, and 17 years of experience interacting with health, social care and education services with her three neurodivergent children acts as a foundation for her writing.
"Lhara is a passionate advocate for neurodivergent children and their families and presents a lived experience voice to the field of practitioner education. This book is a must-read for those aiming to practice from a truly individualized and informed perspective, which empowers and enables neurodivergent children and their families."
Paula McGowan, OBE, founder of The Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training in Learning Disability and Autism
