It is also worth noting that the communication techniques that Higashida uses are scientifically discredited and research suggests that the person facilitating this form of communication is the real source of the messages communicated using this method. For example, at one point the author asks those supporting young people with autism not to provide timetables or visuals, a recommendation that stands in contrast to research and practice evidence that this is a helpful strategy. The book is based on the author’s own experiences and therefore never claims to be best practice, however there are some pieces of advice given within the book that are contrary to evidence based strategies for young people with autism. Is the content in line with best practice or research evidence? The questions are divided by nice visuals which add to the digestibility of the book, along with short stories which aim to draw parallels with Naoki’s life experiences. Each chapter poses a frequently asked question, meaning that the book is easy to dip in and out of. It is worth noting however that there is some doubt regarding how much of the book was written by Higashida himself, due to lack of research evidence for facilitated communication as a technique.ĭespite this, the book does give some interesting insights into Naoki’s experiences of life with autism, and it is written in a way that is incredibly easy to digest. The book was originally written in Japanese using facilitated communication, and was translated to English by Mitchell’s wife. The book begins with a relatable introduction from author David Mitchell, who has an autistic child himself, and who found The Reason I Jump to be a lifeline in helping him develop a relationship with his child.
This book is aimed at parents of children and young people with autism, however it would give all adults with a connection to a young person with autism an insight into how the condition can be experienced. “The Reason I Jump” recounts the first-hand experiences of a non-verbal teenager with autism, answering frequently asked questions and explaining the reasons behind his behaviour. Reviewer expertise: Directly supporting families of children with learning difficulties, including autism What is the book about and who is it aimed at?
0 kommentar(er)
