Page 79 - SEN115 - November/December 2021

Book reviews
by Mary Mountstephen
The Disgusted Dragon
Author: K. Brophy Illustrator: K. Boys
The Intensive Interaction Classroom Guide: Social Communication Learning and Curriculum for Children with Autism, Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties, or Communication Difficulties
A. Mouriere & P. Smith
The authors of this book are both associated with the Intensive Interaction Approach through their roles as Team Leader and Coordinator and have specialisms in autism. The additional contributors include teachers, teaching assistants, consultants and a Head of Learning Support.
The book also includes appendices with photocopiable sheets to support implementation of the programme.
In the foreword to the book, Intensive Interaction is characterised as a process-orientated rather than an objectives-based approach. There is an overall focus on the ‘developmental reality of the learner’ and the fundamentals of communication. The contributors are clearly passionate
about this play-based approach that focuses on building relationships and on the frequent repetition of activities to develop the level of depth and complexity of their attainment.
Short case studies are used in some chapters to illustrate the ways in which Intensive Interaction can support the development of skills such as vocalising to share feelings and thoughts and to understand that communication is a two-way process.
This practical guide provides support for teachers working from nursery to Post-16 with a wide range of students, not only those with autism or learning differences.
Routledge (Taylor Francis) ISBN: 978-0-367-77330-4 £24.99
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Thisbookisoneofasetofsix based around ‘Finding Your Way,’ that have been created by Kay Brophy, a psychologist and creative therapist who has specialised in working with children and families in schools for the last twenty years.
Each book is devoted to an exploration of one of six key emotions: sadness, fear, happiness, surprise, anger, disgust. The stories take place in ‘Lifeland’, a magical place, where colourful characters learn to work through their emotions with someone they trust.
Each book includes a map of Lifeland, providing the locations of places such as ‘Forest of Fear’, ‘Anger Arches’ and
‘Station Surprise’, and this supports the adult with points for discussion about where on the map the character is located, and what it needs to do.
The books are lively and engaging and written in rhyme and it is clear that Brophy is passionate about supporting schools, parents and families to develop emotional well-being and with learning how to deal with emotions more effectively. She clearly explains the difference between emotions and feelings and how to encourage children to process their own thoughts and memories.
A useful resource.
Middle Farm Press (Acorn) ISBN: 978-0-9928896-7-8 £5.00
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