This new guide employs Skillstreaming's evidence-based four-part training approach-modeling, role-playing, performance feedback, and generalization-to teach prosocial skills in a small-group context. The book includes a total of 80 skills specifically tailored to the needs of learners with high-functioning autism and related disorders.

The introduction offers a framework for understanding high-functioning autism disorders, defines unique characteristics of this population, and emphasizes the role of individualized coaching and the assistance of supportive peers in helping these learners meet their unique challenges. The remainder of the book presents skills and related materials.

Skill Groups

Group I: Relationship Skills (Beginning and Advanced)
Sample skills: Listening Without Interrupting
Staying on Topic
Sharing
Ending a Conversation
Communicating Preferences



Group II: Social ComprehensionSample skills: Reading Others
Giving Information Nonverbally
Respecting Another's Boundaries
Taking Another's Perspective



Group III: Self-Regulation
Sample skills: Regulating Your Attention
Dealing with Anxiety
No Means No
Dealing with Boredom
Affirming Yourself



Group IV: Problem Solving
Sample skills: Determining Private Information
Planning for Stressful Situations
Considering Alternatives
When a Rule Doesn't Work
Making a Complaint



Group V: Understanding Emotions
Sample skills: Knowing Your Feelings
Feeling Different
Showing Affection
Recognizing Another's Feelings
Understanding Another's Intentions



Group VI: School-Related Skills
Sample skills: Ignoring Distractions
Taking a Break
Following Adult Directions
Organizing Materials
Dealing with Transitions


Each skill includes an outline for group leaders with helpful advice for teaching specific skill steps and a listing of appropriate role-play situations. Two reproducible homework reports are provided for each skill. Appendixes provide skill checklists and other evaluation forms, as well as dialogue from two sample Skillstreaming sessions. A CD with printable forms accompanies the book.