"Autism isn't something a person has, or a 'shell' someone is trapped inside. There is no 'normal' child hidden behind the autism… Autism is a way of being."

There are no words to describe how families feel when they learn that a child they love has been diagnosed with autism. This book was written for those families. It explains autism in simple terms, discusses the major characteristics associated with autism, and offers simple strategies for helping children with autism function in their homes, at school, and in the community.

With the help of this book, families will begin to understand the puzzle called autism. It provides strategies for families to help their child:

• Learn to be independent
• Succeed in school
• Build social skills
• Communicate with others

Although there is no cure for autism, there is certainly hope. My Child Has Autism provides strategies that are the result of Clarissa Willis' 30 years of experience working with children with autism and their families, as a teacher, speech pathologist, early interventionist, and consultant.