From the Editor’s Desk
Spring hasn’t exactly sprung yet here in the northeastern part of the USA (As I write this column it is barely five degrees Fahrenheit!), but it certainly is right around the corner (so the calendar says!). Notwithstanding, this issue of ASQ is poised to bring you a “breath of spring”—beginning with our “Kids on the Cover” contest winner who you’ve already seen, and our terrific finalists who you are about to meet (on page 44). Congratulations and welcome aboard to all!
In each and every issue of ASQ we try to bring you timeless articles on subjects that matter, AND important information on research that keeps everyone current and on the same page. This issue is no exception.
I am delighted to welcome Dr. Mark Durand and Dr. Meme Hieneman to ASQ. They have discovered a very simple truth—that sometimes the answers to the most complex questions are really very simple. Their refreshing and empowering approach to behavioral parent training will make an optimist out of the most steadfast naysayer, especially in view of the results of the recently-completed, large-scale clinical trial regarding their methodology.
As we entered this new decade, did you find yourself wondering about the scientific advances of the last decade? If so, we’ve got you covered! Dr. Geraldine Dawson, chief science officer of Autism Speaks, takes an enlightened look back on the scientific achievements of the first decade of the 21st century.
We are delighted to welcome back the ever-practical and always relevant Pat Crissey. In this issue she writes about a subject near and dear to my heart—communication. And speaking of practical, ASQ has a brand new feature series for 2010. Donna—it’s a bird. It’s a plane—Richards brings her expertise and unique perspective as the parent of a child with autism to bear on her new four-part series Autism and Everyday Life. In this issue she has tips for how to child-proof the house so that it’s a safe haven for children with ASD.
That brings me to our regular columnists who turn out fabulous articles time and again; issue after issue. Dr. Barry Prizant and colleagues share their dream-come-true story of how a simple wish to provide respite for parents has evolved into a yearly weekend retreat, now in its 15th year. You’ll not only find their story inspirational; you’ll find their detailed information a “road map” for setting up a retreat in your own location. In addition to Barry’s “Straight Talk” column, Jennifer Twachtman-Reilly discusses ways to shore up inferencing ability in children with ASD in her Tips column. You’ll find lots of goodies in an easy-to-follow format.
In deference to the recent Valentine’s Day holiday, Dr. Teresa Bolick tackles the topic of love and romance in her “Life Construction Ahead” column, a topic she handles with her customary aplomb! And Alyson Beytien takes on the very difficult but important topic of grieving, bringing to it the wisdom that comes from experience. Last, but never least, Liane Holliday Willey introduces us to Sharon daVanport, a fascinating “mover and shaker” from the online ASD community, in her “Celebrations of Excellence and Originality” (CEO) column.
That’s the MAGA part. Now here’s the JOURNAL part of MAGAJOURNAL®. We are privileged to shine a spotlight on the innovative and enlightening research of Dr. Ami Klin of Yale University. In addition, this issue’s Research Newsdesk column addresses the topics of early intervention and remedial reading, while the Research Briefs column focuses on perceptual processing, and categorization and facial knowledge.
That brings me to next issue’s exceptional coming attractions: Dr. Brenda Smith Myles will discuss a new and exciting tool for social skills training and Dr. Nancy Perry will address her center’s approach to providing executive function support. Dr. Gena P. Barnhill, author of Right Address . . . Wrong Planet: Children with Asperger Syndrome Becoming Adults, will weigh in on the controversy over whether or not to include Asperger syndrome in the next revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual. Donna Richards has great advice for getting the most out of IEP meetings, and veteran parent/professional Judy Gruenfeld takes us on a tour of the Land of Alphabet Soup!
Enjoy this issue, and stay tuned for the summer issue due out in mid-May. Happy Spring!
All the best,
Diane Twachtman-Cullen
