1st Edition
Supporting Neurodivergent and Autistic People for Their Transition into Adulthood Blueprints for Education, Training, and Employment
This trailblazing resource teaches educators how to support the strengths of children and teens on the autism spectrum as they transition into their lives as adults.
Offering ideas and solutions to counter the currently steep unemployment rate for those on the autism spectrum in the United States, each chapter takes a strength- and asset-based approach to autism and neurodivergent education, training, and employment. The author draws upon his lived experience as a parent to a neurodivergent child to provide unique and proven strategies with real-life applications.
Secondary and post-secondary educators can learn to refresh their current standards of practice and the concept of what is possible and appropriate in working with students on the autism spectrum.
Foreword
Introduction
SECTION 1: In the Classroom
1 Identifying Strength
2 Listening
3 Setting Up Sequencing
4 Understanding the Difference Between Skill and Ability
5 Holistic Approach
6 Demeanor of Educator
7 Assessment
8 Deception Without Deceit
SECTION 2: Training
9 Simulation Site
10 Failure to Succeed
11 Holistic Approach
12 Slow to Go Fast
13 Setup of Training
14 Assessment
15 Feedback
SECTION 3: Placement
16 Portfolio
17 Worked-Based Interview
18 Talent Over Charity
19 Employer Communication
20 Assimilation vs Integration
21 Job Coaching
22 Parent Expectations
23 Benefits
Conclusion/Final Thoughts
Bibliography
Biography
Danny Combs has a master’s degree in education and is a Board-Certified Cognitive Specialist and a Certified Autism Specialist. He was granted several awards in teaching – including a Grammy Enterprise Award for the program he designed in the Nashville schools – and became a published educational author, arranger, and songwriter and served as Board Chair/President of the Autism Society. He has two incredible children – Dylan and Ellie. When his son, Dylan, was diagnosed with autism, Danny formed Teaching the Autism Community Trades (TACT) with the mission to encourage and empower the full spectrum of individuals with autism through education and employment in the skilled trades.
"Supporting Neurodivergent and Autistic People for Their Transition into Adulthood: Blueprints
for Education, Training, and Employment is a MUST read. Through initial sharing of personal
and lived experience, the author immediately creates a deeply human connection with the
reader that goes far beyond blueprints. All of the concepts are framed with an appreciation and
understanding of the importance of context, and individual goals and values. From the emphasis
on developing the whole person, to educator roles, expectations, training, motivation, feedback,
ethics, and more; this book delivers a framework with immense depth and scope. An excellent
and thoroughly enlightening read. " –Dr. Amanda Kelly, President and CEO of Firefly Autism, Co-Founder of the Colorado Neurodiversity Chamber of Commerce"This book is a much needed guide to help those supporting developing young adults on the
spectrum find meaning and purpose in adulthood. Based on his experience as the parent of an
autistic young man, and his ongoing efforts to secure employment for autistic individuals within
the trades, Danny has provided the blueprints for others to build a sustainable future. His
insights into teaching, training, and job skill readiness are invaluable. Highly recommended." –Dr. Tom Welsh, psychologist and author of The Breakaway: A Parent's Guide to Transitioning the Autistic and Twice Exceptional Adolescent Into Young Adulthood
