The Kaleidoscope Kid: Focusing on the strengths of Children with Aspergers Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism

The Kaleidoscope Kid: Focusing on the strengths of Children with Aspergers Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism by Elaine Marie Larson The Kaleidoscope Kid is written for children with Asperger Syndrome and high-functioning autism to remind them of their many special gifts. Children on the autism spectrum possess a kaleidoscope of intellectual strengths and unique personality traits. Their outlook and creative ways are as variable and colorful as the view through a kaleidoscope. Written in light verse and illustrated in bold, colorful and entertaining illustrations, The Kaleidoscope Kid draws the reader to the book with the colorful, bold design of its cover. The interesting illustrations inside provide a vivid backdrop for the poetry. The book touches on subjects familiar and dear to children including pets and friends and a few of kids favorite things like dinosaurs, holidays, and summer vacations. The reader is reminded that those with Aspergers syndrome and high-functioning autism can proudly acknowledge to themselves that they are excellent, special and one-of-a-kind individuals. They are usually truthful, helpful and dependable. The book is an expansion on Elaine Marie Larson s first book, I Am Utterly Unique, an ABC book on the positive traits exhibited by children on the autism spectrum for children ages 4-10. The Kaleidoscope Kid can be enjoyed by children in this younger group, but entertains and educates readers of all ages through light verse. REVIEWS: This book is a celebration of the unique gifts individuals with Asperger Syndrome and high-functioning autism possess. It is an empowering and validating representation of the exceptional qualities kaleidoscope kids bring to their communities. Elaine s combination of prose and poetry, accented by delightful illustrations,works to effectively highlight the strengths of individuals with Asperger Syndrome and high-functioning autism. --Karena Jones,M.Ed., disability specialist While much literature has addressed fixing the challenges of individuals with Asperger Syndrome, this book celebrates their strengths. These strengths instill pride, confidence, and a deeper understanding of Asperger Syndrome. Enjoy reading this colorful, creative and clever collection of poems about the beautiful and positive attributes of those with Asperger Syndrome.Of interest to all children, on or off the autism spectrum. --Kerry Mataya, M.S.Ed.,Asperger consultant and founder of Autism Asperger Syndrome Consulting Group, LLC Going way beyond poetry, this amazing little book will entice children on the autism spectrum with games, puzzles,and word play.As an added bonus, Larson highlights important strengths and sure-fire interests of children on the spectrum throughout the text. A definite addition to your child s library, and a wonderful companion to Larson s I Am Utterly Unique. --Zosia Zaks, autism advocate and consultant, and author ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Elaine Marie Larson is a former preschool, elementary and adult English-as-a-Second-Language teacher. She wrote I Am Utterly Unique to help her young grandson, who has Asperger Syndrome, grow in self-awareness of his many capabilities. Elaine has also written Up and Down, a book on gravity, and her stories have been included in two anthologies, Christmas Programs for Children and Rainy Day, Sunny Day Activity Book. In addition, she has sold poetry and essays to The Saturday Evening Post, Birds and Bloom and a variety of other adult and children s magazines, including Highlights for Children. A lifelong resident of Minnesota, Elaine lives with her husband in the Minneapolis area. Her four grandchildren are often the inspiration for her stories and poems.