Introduction: Get Started Here -- How Your Child Learns -- Help Your Child Understand What You Say Without Words -- Get Ready for Conversation: "Break the ICE" -- Use Your "I-Cues" for Better Conversations -- Help Your Child Tune In to Others -- Learn About the World Together -- Stay Tuned In with Books -- Help Your Child Become a Story-Teller -- Make the Most of Make-Believe -- Know Your Child's Friendship Skills -- Be Your Child's Play Coach -- Step Out ... and Step In Again -- Use Visual Helpers to Show Your Child How to Be a Friend

"Even after they've learned to talk, children aged 3 to 7 with Asperger syndrome, mild autism or social difficulties face special communication challenges. To have real "talk ability," children have to understand the meaning behind the words by tuning in to the thoughts and feelings of other people. Parents and professionals have long sought a down-to-earth guide on how to help these children develop the people skills that make it possible to engage in real conversations and connect well with others. TalkAbility answers this need with a wealth of practical strategies that parents can build into their child's everyday life."--Back cover