Chase of a Lifetime: a Journey Through Therapeutic and Academic Strategies for Children on the Autism Spectrum

Chase, surrounded by three year olds at a birthday party, prances through the house flipping ceiling fan controls and light switches while the other children play together. After his frolic, Chase spots a Hot Wheels car. He lies down to roll the wheels back and forth in front of his eyes, mesmerized by the movement of the shiny chrome, ignoring attempts to lure him into the party's events. The Autism Spectrum affects over 500,000 people nationwide and the numbers are inexplicably growing. Chase of a Lifetime details the progress of an autistic child, barely able to function in a supportive preschool class, culminating in his emergence as a confident third grader. This book includes strategies for securing the appropriate educational placement for a child from preschool through third grade, including an Appendix of written Individual Education Plan (IEP) goals for each year. The Appendix also includes invaluable resources such as samples of insurance letters, modification ideas, and social stories that worked on very common and difficult areas of concern."Few authors have outlined their quest for answers in such detail as Denise Carrier. Those reading this book are encouraged to use the information to blaze new pathways for their own child and his or her teachers."-Sheila Wagner, Assistant Director, Emory Autism Center; Coordinator, Emory Inclusion Project"Once you pick up this book, you will not be able to put it down until you have read it completely. Denise Carrier's energy and determination in helping her son Chase will invigorate you. Parents and professionals alike will gain invaluable information in regard to the process of diagnosing and treating a child on the autistic spectrum. Above all, you will learn to be diligent in pursuing appropriate assistance for your child."-Alan G. Weintraub M. D., FAAP, Board-certified Developmental Behavioral Pediatrician