Nov 9, 2021
Published in September 2021, Navigating Autism: 9 Mindsets for Helping Kids on the Spectrum by Temple Grandin and Debra Moore offers a positive approach to supporting young autistics. I can see my daughters and myself in some of the passages. The research citations appeal to my desire for evidence, too.
Like most autistics and parents, I rarely agree with most autism guides and texts. We’re too often reduced to our deficits. And, I don’t always agree with my colleagues. But, Dr. Grandin always makes me think. It was a pleasure to meet Dr. Moore and I’m fascinated by her research in the area of Internet addiction.
Temple Grandin is a Professor of Animal Science at Colorado State University. She might be the best-known autistic self-advocate in the United States. I have been privileged to meet her in person at conferences and enjoy listening to her discuss animals, science, and engineering. She has said that many people she meets in construction and manufacturing are likely Neurodiverse.
Dr. Debra Moore is a psychologist who promotes therapies with a focus on strengths, not deficits. She has written extensively on the need for a positive model of autism. Dr. Moore encourages parents, caregivers, and educators to consider the needs of autistics in adulthood. Autistic children grow up and need skills for success.
Grandin and Moore:
Dr. Grandin:
Dr. Moore:
The Autistic Me: