Meaningful Exchanges for People With Autism: An Introduction to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (Topics in Autism).

Meaningful Exchanges for People With Autism: An Introduction to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (Topics in Autism) Cafiero JM. Bethesda, MD 20817, Woodbine House, 2005, paperback, 174 pp, illus, ISBN: 1-890627-44-5, $17.95.

Written by a teacher in the public school system, this book provides an overview of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices and is a useful resource for parents or professionals who are involved with children who have disabilities. The book is well conceptualized with a clear outline, case studies, vignettes, and numerous diagrams and photographs interspersed throughout the text. Key points are offset in shaded boxes, and small sections are devoted to helpful summaries like "Troubleshooting Tips" and "Commonly Asked Questions." The appendixes include a glossary of about 100 terms and a comprehensive resource section that lists organizations, Web sites, products, conferences, journals, and newsletters associated with AAC.

Although the book was written specifically to address the needs of children with autism, the general concepts are applicable to a much broader range of children with disabilities.

The first few chapters address the importance of interactive communication for people with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD); how AAC can assist with their communication needs; and descriptions of various AAC tools, devices, and strategies. A full chapter is devoted to the evaluation of a child for an AAC intervention and provides a very practical overview. The author addresses general guidelines for assessment and also provides a summary of 3 specific assessment tools and strategies. Another chapter provides an overview of federal legislation that has had an impact on the provision of AAC devices and services as well as sources of funding. The book concludes with a short chapter summarizing 14 key concepts related to AAC for people with ASD and future projections.

The book is a practical introduction to the topic, not a reference on the evidence supporting the use of AAC devices. References are included, but are not consistently appended to statements that would be strengthened by their inclusion. In a couple of instances, the reference included is not the most recent one possible. For example, the definition of assistive technology devices and services is from the Tech Act of 1988 when a similar definition can be found in the Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act (2004).

The book is practical and easy to read and is a valuable resource for physical therapists or physical therapist assistants who are involved with children who have ASD or even other disabilities.

Karen Yundt Lunnen, PT, EdD

Western Carolina University 

Cullowhee, NC

Lunnen teaches the pediatric content in a professional (entry-level) physical therapy program, and participates with an interdisciplinary faculty team to evaluate individuals for AA C devices. She also participates in 2 federal grants whose purpose is to prepare special education teachers and speech-and-language pathologists to work with students who have severe or profound disabilities.