The ASD Nest Model: A Framework for Inclusive Education for Higher Functioning Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Over the last 40 years, paradigm shifts in education from applied behavior analysis to TEACCH Structured Teaching to more naturalistic behavioral models have moved the field of autism forward. I believe the ASD NEST program represents the same challenge and potential in providing a framework for integrated classrooms and inclusion for higher functioning children with autism in public school settings. This is a book that every educator concerned about developing truly appropriate educational opportunities for children with autism should have.Catherine Lord, PhD, Psychiatry and Pediatrics at Weill-Cornell Medical College, White Plains, NYCohen and Hough have done a masterful job of capturing the heart and methodology of an effective program for children with ASD that has been carefully designed based on research and experience. Against all odds, this program was envisioned and then implemented by Cohen, Siegel, and their team of amazing, dedicated individuals and has completely changed the education of children with ASD within the New York City public school system. The book is written in such a way that it can be used as a whole to help parents, teachers, school psychologists, administrators, and others who want to understand, step by step, how to design a successful program. It can also be used in parts by those who are looking for guidance about a particular area of autism education or ideas for how to adapt an existing program or classroom. The beauty of this book is that everyone involved in the education of children with ASD, as well as the students themselves, will ultimately benefit from the information presented.Ellen Hanson, PhD, director, Neurodevelopmental Disorders Phenotyping Program, Boston Children s Hospital, Harvard Medical SchoolWith nonjudgmental focus on the characteristics, strengths, and learning styles of students with autism spectrum and related special needs, the Nest program shines through an example of developing and implementing best teaching practice that in the end benefits all students. Seeing this program in action is the next best thing to having it available as an educational choice when I was a student going through grade school.Stephen M. Shore, EdD, assistant professor of special education, internationally renowned author, consultant, and presenter on issues related to autism and special education. Person with autismProviding a much-needed roadmap for inclusive education, The ASD Nest Model hits the mark! Teachers and school staff now have an inclusion instruction manual with all the pieces described for setting up their own model inclusion programs, and parents have a reference for what to expect for their child s needs for success. A first-of-its-kind resource, it should be much appreciated!Connie Kasari, PhD, professor, Center for Autism Research & Treatment, UCLA Semel InstituteThe ASD Nest Model lays out an already tested recipe for success in teaching students with ASD in the average or above-average cognitive range. This book is the nuts-and-bolts of what it takes to deliver an inclusive public education to some of our brightest students who need specific support to access learning. Following these instructions and using the ingredients you already have will add your school, your staff, and your students with ASD to the winner list! --Judy Endow, MSW, autism consultant;