What ASD books/resources would you recommend?

[MissPitstop]

I am currently starting up a parent support group for parents of children with Autism as there is nothing available in my area. (see parents support group thread) I am wanting to start a resources library to enable parents to look at books, products etc. maybe borrow them for a short period to see if they work before having to pay loads of money.

What books would you recommend?
What stress toys, communication methods, products do you find to be worth their weight in gold?
What products did you buy which just did not work for your child?

Thanks again for your help and advice.

Miss P

[catkinq]

tony attwood on Aspergers - the complete guide to Asp syndrone is good (very comprehenvise and readable), as is autism and aspergers the facts Baron-Cohen (short and good as it focuses on the idea that ASD are actually conditions not disorders which I liked).

[MissPitstop]

Thanks catking I had tony attwood on the list but not the baron-cohen one, Ill add it now.

[MissPitstop]

thanks busybeingmum that list is great. Im really looking forward to being ablt to go and bulk buy all the books but first I have to do enough fundraising to afford them!

[troutpout]

We like 'all cats have aspergers syndrome' in our house. Kathy Hoppmann i think.

[MissPitstop]

Ive just been pricing up all the books you told me about plus a few more I saw whilst browsing and it come to over £300 and that was being very strict with myself. I reakon you could spend 2 or 3 times that much if you looked at all the titles!

[MissPitstop]

Im not sure how I could buy from ebay unless I set up paypal on the charity account. Ive just managed to get funding of £150!!!So its started moving

[claudialyman]

Will let you know if the Olga Bogdashina books ive just ordered turn out any good - they look exciting on amazon. But just wanted to say well done on your initiative getting a support group up and running and best of luck with it

[MissPitstop]

Oooo Busybeingmum, Im a member of the NAS! Doh! I can save 10% That makes £150 into £165 of books.

Thanks for your support claudialyman, its gpnna be hard work but definately worth it

[claudialyman]

Had a thought this afternoon that parents might like to be able to try out one of the "something special" dvds to see if their dc show any interest. My son has ASD and shows quite an interest as they do specific topics like transport and music (2 obsessions covered there). I'm delighted when he watches them as they are so good for encouraging communication. cheaper on bbcshop than amazon etc

[Goblinchild]

Not books, but showing and explaining to parents what a visual timetable is and how to make one.
Lego keyrings and fiddle toys that are small enough to fit in a pocket and be used as needed.
Mine had a weighted blanket that he no longer needs and I passed on, but it was invaluable when he was younger.
It's a great idea, well done you!

[MissPitstop]

Thanks again everyone, all your ideas are more than welcome. Im keeping a list of all your ideas so that when I get the money raised I can buy some or all of these.

Ive now got a room for free in our local childrens centre sorted out and booked for 3rd Monday morning in Jan, Feb and Mar. They have offered to help me printing leaflets and posters etc too.

Next on the list is fundraising, new ideas anyone?