Greetings everyone,

We are excited to announce the release of our book The Ziggurat Model and our two intervention assessment tools: The Underlying Characteristics Checklist-HF and The Underlying Characteristics Checklist-CL. The book presents a process and framework for designing comprehensive intervention plans for individuals of all ages with autism spectrum disorders.

The Ziggurat Model evolved from our efforts to train and consult with parents and staff members working with students diagnosed with ASD. The model has helped us in our own work, and we wrote the book in order to share it with others.

Prospective readers of The Ziggurat Model include parents, teachers, speech pathologists, psychologists, school administrators, and others who involved with planning and implementing programming for individuals with an ASD. The book provides a tool for decision making and program planning. Many have told us that this model is what they "have been looking for."

Autism and Asperger Syndrome are pervasive developmental disorders and cannot be adequately addressed by any single approach. In designing an intervention plan, it is essential to recognize and build on the strengths of the individual. It is equally critical to look beyond the surface to the underlying needs and provide interventions that address the sometimes "invisible" aspects of ASD. The Ziggurat Model is responsive to the strengths and needs of those with ASD. As parents and professionals learn The Ziggurat Model and apply it in practice, the quality of interventions improve. Use of the model ensures that intervention plans are (a) founded on assessment, (b) comprehensive, and (c) evidence-based.

Ruth & Barry

We recommend the following books:

	Finding Our Way: Practical Solutions for Creating a Supportive Home and Community for the Asperger Syndrome Family by Kristi Sakai This is a wonderful resource for parents. Based on her personal insight as a mother of three children on the autism spectrum and a refreshing sense of humor, Kristi provides a guide for solving common daily issues related to raising children with ASD.
	Super Skills: A Social Skills Group Program for Children with Asperger Syndrome, High-Functioning Autism and Related Challenges by Judith Coucouvanis, MA, APRN, BC This thorough book breaks down social skills into a sequence of development and includes assessment tools and helpful lesson plans. We frequently recommend it.
	Prescription for Success: Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Medical Environment by Jill Hudson, M.S., CCLS In this much-needed resource, Jill provides practical tools for helping children with ASD through medical procedures. The book provides many helpful visual supports and interventions.