Speaker, Author, Autism Expert

Book

Autism Grows Up…Then What?:

7 Keys to Preparing Your Child’s Transition from Childhood to Adulthood (Without Losing Your Mind)

by Mary Elizabeth Harrison

Raising a child with autism spectrum disorder is a daunting challenge that, at times, can overwhelm a family. This book highlights seven time-tested strategies employed by a mother who spent two decades in the trenches to help her son develop the basic living skills needed to transition as a teenager and a young adult. These common-sense strategies implemented today will greatly improve performance over time. You will find that the “cliff” all parents must contend with when individuals age out of the school system is not so daunting if you incorporate the mastery of skills provided in this book and focus on your child’s strengths.

{“Autism Grows Up…Then What?” is a must read for parents facing the transition from adolescence to adulthood with children on the autism spectrum. The advice is clear and actionable, focusing on making the shift out of the school system smoother and more manageable. What I love most is how the book emphasizes strength-based approaches, making the whole process feel more reassuring and empowering."
5
Nick & Megan Unsworth
Business Coaching, Founders of Life on Fire
{“Mary has been a friend, business partner and tireless advocate for her son since we met 5 years ago. I am so pleased she is sharing her incredible journey with other parents of special needs children. Mary’s wealth of knowledge and experience, in combination with traditional and alternative, Holistic methods gives us an insight into how she continues to create a world in which her son, Jewels, thrives and lives life to its fullest!”
5
Debbie Reeder
President, LivLabs
{“The world of special needs families finally has a foundation of practical strategies and support! Mary’s book, Autism Grows up Then WHAT?, leads the reader to a new path of stability and promise. Her insight, compassion and experience make this book a ‘Must Read’!”
5
Karen Nisenson, MM, MA, BCMT
BCMT Founder, Arts for Healing
{"Mary, the author is an exceptional person, and as you read this book, you understand how close this topic is to her, as her son is autistic. There are worksheets in the book for parents to fill through, learning more about their kid(s) with this special need. This book pays close and special attention to parent and child relationship as it guides you through challenges that may come in the horizons. Great book."
5
Sajida
{"Mary Harrison delivers sound, clear advice to parents desperately seeking a soothing voice of wisdom. While the focus is on autism, the wisdom here is something any parent would welcome. As she writes, it all begins with love – the love of family, but also community. Building communal networks of support is so crucial. As a rabbi, I know how important that can be. She has already succeeded in doing that."
5
Rabbi Joshua Hammerman
{“Mary’s book is filled with wisdom and practical advice. I love the strength-based approach she advocates – that we look for the beauty and strengths in each child, or what I refer to as “islands of competence.” Mary focuses not only on children’s developmental challenges, but also on their passions and strengths."
5
Dr. Robert B. Brooks
Psychologist, Speaker & Author – Raising Resilient Children
{"Very helpful! This is a must have book for anyone with a special-needs child and their family."
5
Lee
{“7 Keys…offers wisdom, insight, and compassion to help parents see their children (or adults) with autism from a broader perspective. This book suggests ways to understand your child’s unique way of communicating whether verbal or not. We recommend this inspirational guidebook for parents on the journey with children on the spectrum.”
5
Robert Silvetz
MD and Lorriane Silvetz, MSW
{“Jewels’ development is a direct result of the care and nurturing of his family, particularly of his mother, Mary. I was honored to be asked to contribute to this book, and I would highly recommend it not only to parents of children with autism but also to “special needs” professionals. Too little attention has been paid to the transition to adulthood that these children and their families must navigate. Mary’s common-sense approaches to both childhood issues and to the developmental challenges of adolescence and adulthood are a wonderfully clear and practical guide for shepherding an autistic child through teen years and into maturity. Beyond practicality, however, her love and dedication are positively transcendent. Through getting to know this handsome and engaging young man, her gift to her son has become her gift to me as well.”
5
Anthony (Rusty) Cloud
Pianist/Composer/Arranger Piano Instructor, Lagond Music School
{“Mary’s book offers valuable insights on working with an individual on the autism spectrum. This book offers hope and provides a roadmap of what is possible if the strategies are implemented! Mary truly cares about helping others and her ideas will make a positive difference in your life!”
5
James Malinchak
Featured on ABC’s Hit TV Show, “Secret Millionaire”

 

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