This is a major work that teaches authentic, appropriate social skills to students with autism as they navigate the social world. Crafting Connections not only provides concrete information on developing social skills but also instructs readers on how to assess competency, develop programs, and create social skills curricula. The book contains a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on Social Awareness, Social Communication, Social Interaction, Social Learning, and Social Relatedness. The authors present the methods and means to teach and individualize programs. Sub-skills, prerequisites, and methods of instruction are outlined for each area in a methodical, easy-to-read manner.

There is an emphasis throughout on teaching interaction and creating authentic social competence. Real world issues such as teasing, bullying, conversational development and social comprehension are addressed in detail. The guide highlights skill development within a behavioral framework, providing quality social skill instruction to learners on the spectrum. Crafting Connections aims to foster genuine relationship development while remaining systematic and analytic; it goes beyond the rote and simplistic and helps develop social competencies as well as genuine meaningful, life enriching relationships.

This is a comprehensive, easy-to-use guide that will help teachers, clinicians, and families teach social skills to children and youth with autism spectrum disorders.