Uniquely Human: Updated and Expanded: A Different Way of Seeing Autism

I wanted a book to help me work better with my students. This book was referred by a colleague and I'm thankful. It's easy to read, well written and helpful. Doesn't have a lot of technical/medical terms.

The perspective of how to view the autistic child and how they fit into the world / grow up is shown in many years of experience from this Dr. It is caring and also insightful. Follows many examples of kids and how they and their parents navigated various scenarios. This gives invaluable context to those parents with a new diagnosis beyond clinical descriptions of autism or autism resources. It is not written by someone with autism, so if you are looking for that, look at Asperger's from the inside out or some other relevant book.

I really believe as a new parent to all this, a great early book. So eye opening as to the insights on where to go but also where you have been. You are not alone and professionals have made made mistakes and misdiagnosed observations.

Easy to read and extremely informative! It gives great insight into understanding and working with children and adults.

In a field where many of the books on autism are written by outsiders who perpetuate myths, stereotypes, and negative images of autism - or at best, that autistic individuals deserve respect despite their wildly different and often bizarre behavior - Dr. Prizant's take on autism as a unique way of being human is refreshing. Through explanation of concepts and theories, backed by real life examples throughout his extensive career, Prizant highlights the universally human underpinnings of behaviors in autistic individuals that many might not understand. An autistic person who repeats the same question over and over despite being answered the first time? How many neurotypical kids ask "are we there yet" ad nauseum on long car trips? An autistic person flicking their fingers repeatedly? How many neurotypical people twirl their hair to help focus or chew gum to calm their nerves?The perspective shift in "Uniquely Human" is one sorely needed in the world and Prizant writes in a way that is accessible by anyone and very easy to read. With a blend of stories and concepts, the book never gets boring or drags, but rather keeps a comfortable pace. Anyone with a loved one with autism would benefit from reading this book as would every professional who does or might work with an autistic individual. After reading "Uniquely Human", I told a friend of mine who is a principal that *this* would be the book her teachers and staff should read for ongoing autism education. Not only does the book provide an excellent perspective shift, it does so in a way that addresses how to tackle many of the struggles that caregivers, educators, and others have in understanding and supporting autistic individuals. To be honest, I had avoided this book for several months because I thought the title would be an exercise in trite condescension of the autistic community, but I found it to be genuine and respectful of the dignity of everyone. For those who are somewhat familiar with the neurodiversity community, the one caveat you should know is that Prizant acknowledges that many adult autistics prefer an identity first language (autistic person) as opposed to a person first language (person with autism), but chooses to use a person first language without much explanation as to why. Aside from that, which I realize can be very significant for many, I found "Uniquely Human" to be the perfect introduction to autism book in terms of hands-on application. If you are looking for a good understanding of the historical development and story of autism as a diagnosis and the emergence of the neurodiversity movement, I highly recommend "NeuroTribes" by Steve Silberman.If you are a parent, grandparent, caregiver, teacher, administrator, etc., please read this book.

This is a beautiful book. I highly recommend it to parents, professionals, or anybody who wants a real account of autism and ways communication is so varied and wonderful

"Uniquely Human" by Barry Prizant is a groundbreaking book that redefines how we understand and interact with individuals on the autism spectrum. As a parent of a child with autism, I found this book to be incredibly enlightening and uplifting.Prizant's approach is refreshingly humane, emphasizing the importance of seeing the world through the eyes of those with autism. Instead of focusing on deficits and behaviors to be corrected, he encourages readers to appreciate the unique ways in which individuals with autism experience the world. His message is clear: behaviors are not random or senseless, but are meaningful responses to their environment.The book is filled with compelling stories and practical advice, making complex concepts accessible and relatable. Prizant's decades of experience shine through in his compassionate, respectful, and optimistic perspective. He challenges many traditional methods of intervention, advocating for a more empathetic and understanding approach.What sets this book apart is its focus on building positive relationships and creating supportive environments. Prizant provides concrete strategies for parents, educators, and therapists to foster trust, communication, and emotional well-being."Uniquely Human" is a must-read for anyone who knows or works with individuals on the autism spectrum. It not only changes how we view autism but also inspires us to become better, more compassionate human beings.

Good for references.

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Aún no termino de leerlo pero me esta fascinando. Lo recomiendo 100%

This is the secret recipe on why I love teaching, playing and goofing around with my students! Kids with special needs is honestly hard to dealt with if you don’t know their background. This book brought out the character in me to understand them, how to communicate and sympathize with their struggles. Barry Prizant’s experiences in his career helped me to understand my profession more.

This is a great read for Any parent or professional dealing with differently abled children adn adults. It makes for a beautiful read with insights into how understanding and embracing the child with his/her abilities and disabilities however small or big they may be. Would definitely recommend.

I rarely leave reviews but felt compelled to write one after only being half way through this book in the hope that it might help reach someone in understanding their child or maybe a child they care for. I wish this book was given to me when my son was diagnosed. 7 years in and I understand my child quite well now but reading this book was a feeling of at last someone understands my child. It’s eye opening, re affirming, and helps see things from their world which can be so hard for us to understand and comprehend. It’s helped me to re think a few problems we are facing and confirmed my thought on others. Everyone should read this book especially those caring for or working with children with autism, especially if trying to understand behaviours. Highly recommend this is the best autism book I have read to date, thank you to the author!