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Learning to Dance in the Rain
I would like to invite you to join me on the journey of ups and downs, heartaches and thrills I experienced through a year of caring for a child with autism. This journal is my story as a caregiver, weathering the storm with a seven year-old girl with autism. Whether you know nothing at all about autism or feel well-versed on the topic, I believe you will find my story educational, enlightening, and heartwarming.
- GenresNonfictionBook Club
194 pages, Paperback
First published September 3, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
October 27, 2014
Eye-opening and uplifting! As someone who has a friend with two autistic boys, this book was eye-opening and reaffirming. As a teacher, this helped me understand more about autism and how to be a more caring and inclusive instructor. The book looks at one year in the life of 7-year-old Reagan and her caregiver Melanie. Written like a journal, the well-written entries discuss all issues in the day-to-day life of Reagan; from stimming, the need for routine and order, the child’s love of chicken nuggets, to the support system that surrounded her family as they dealt with and grew with this little girl. There were many times, as Melanie described their outings to stores or doctor’s offices that I felt like I could not have the loving patience she does to carry on. However, it was the progress of the child in one short year that proved to me that love conquers all and that we must lovingly proceed with our quest of helping those with autism so they can live fulfilling and fruitful lives. Highly recommended.
January 16, 2016
I requested & received a free paperback copy of Learning To Dance In The Rain: A Year of Weathering the Storm with an Autistic Child Paperback by Melanie Bennett directly from the author in exchange for a fair review.
This is a FIVE star review. It is a very POWERFULLY written book with an impact on my emotions. Because of that, I had to allow myself intervals to read, assimilate & process all that took place in that year's journey.
I'm a retired nurse. In the early 1970's I worked at a mental institution that had two autistic teenage girls in a locked cage at the end of the ward hallway. They would not stay dressed. It was a barbaric setting, straight out of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. These beautiful children did a lot of self-harm. They bit, hit, kicked, scratched & pulled hair. They urinated where they stood & would smear feces on themselves if the room wasn't immediately cleaned. They had no speech but screamed loudly. As the author, or anyone who interacts with an autistic child in a meltdown, is aware, the extended sound can almost curdle the bone marrow. It was heart breaking to watch them spin until they fell down on the mattresses on the floor. There was no treatment then & no hope.
The author responded to me: "Did you know in 1970 one in every 10,000 children were diagnosed with autism. Now it is 1 in 88. Of course the degrees can be great."
God bless you Melanie! What courage you have to write through what you are teaching. Your breakthroughs are remarkable! I wept when Reagan was able to receive a pedicure. I commend you for following up with having only the large toenails cut as you promised, even when the one giving the pedicure told you it would be fast. You held firm to your promise. And when Reagan was able to sit still long enough to have a snowman on the big toes, I was filled with joy.
This book affected me a great deal by stimulating painful memories. I was so relieved & impressed with the progress of Reagan & the encouraging end.
The past treatment of autistic children was appalling in the truest sense of the word, to inspire horror or disgust. It was a terrible time in my life for I was merely a gatekeeper, a carrier of keys...there was no nursing, no healing involved. That's why your book has inspired so much hope. Your little victories are awesome!
I believe this book belongs in every doctor's office, every caregiver, every teacher, every librarian & in the hands of those interacting with autistic children. If the general public knew not to stare, glare or react to different behavior shown in the lives of autistic children, their parents & caregivers might find their lives a tiny bit less stressful.
I danced with Reagan in the rain with utter uninhibited joy. Thank you Melanie Bennett for writing this incredible journey.
Link to purchase: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615...
This is a FIVE star review. It is a very POWERFULLY written book with an impact on my emotions. Because of that, I had to allow myself intervals to read, assimilate & process all that took place in that year's journey.
I'm a retired nurse. In the early 1970's I worked at a mental institution that had two autistic teenage girls in a locked cage at the end of the ward hallway. They would not stay dressed. It was a barbaric setting, straight out of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. These beautiful children did a lot of self-harm. They bit, hit, kicked, scratched & pulled hair. They urinated where they stood & would smear feces on themselves if the room wasn't immediately cleaned. They had no speech but screamed loudly. As the author, or anyone who interacts with an autistic child in a meltdown, is aware, the extended sound can almost curdle the bone marrow. It was heart breaking to watch them spin until they fell down on the mattresses on the floor. There was no treatment then & no hope.
The author responded to me: "Did you know in 1970 one in every 10,000 children were diagnosed with autism. Now it is 1 in 88. Of course the degrees can be great."
God bless you Melanie! What courage you have to write through what you are teaching. Your breakthroughs are remarkable! I wept when Reagan was able to receive a pedicure. I commend you for following up with having only the large toenails cut as you promised, even when the one giving the pedicure told you it would be fast. You held firm to your promise. And when Reagan was able to sit still long enough to have a snowman on the big toes, I was filled with joy.
This book affected me a great deal by stimulating painful memories. I was so relieved & impressed with the progress of Reagan & the encouraging end.
The past treatment of autistic children was appalling in the truest sense of the word, to inspire horror or disgust. It was a terrible time in my life for I was merely a gatekeeper, a carrier of keys...there was no nursing, no healing involved. That's why your book has inspired so much hope. Your little victories are awesome!
I believe this book belongs in every doctor's office, every caregiver, every teacher, every librarian & in the hands of those interacting with autistic children. If the general public knew not to stare, glare or react to different behavior shown in the lives of autistic children, their parents & caregivers might find their lives a tiny bit less stressful.
I danced with Reagan in the rain with utter uninhibited joy. Thank you Melanie Bennett for writing this incredible journey.
Link to purchase: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615...
May 22, 2014
This is a fabulous book. My advice, however, is don't start it late at night because you may become so engrossed your sleep may suffer! This is an engaging account of the author's year from Christmas to the next December with Reagan, a 7 yo autistic girl. Ms. Bennett is the family's personal assistant and she gives us an inside look into what a day, a week, a month, and finally a year of life with an autistic child really look like. If you are not already familiar with autism, be prepared to be shocked and amazed. If you are familiar, you can't help but admire how the author works hard to figure out what she can do to help Reagan understand her world and communicate more effectively. You will laugh, you will cry, and you will get upset at people who don't understand while wondering if you would have done any better had you been there. As an aspiring Occupational Therapy Assistant student, with a particular interest in autism, this book riveted me. I would highly recommend this book to be used in schools to help students discern whether they should consider working with the autistic or not. I would highly recommend this book to family members of autistic children to help them find a connection with and to understand the everyday challenges. I would highly recommend this book for caregivers of autistic children--you will surely find some help and hope in the innovate and genius way Ms. Bennett navigates the difficult and uncharted territory of each successive day with Reagan. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who would like to learn more about autism. And we should all want to learn about this, and you couldn't ask for a more enjoyable, quick read than this book. In short, I would highly recommend this book to everyone!
March 5, 2015
This is an astonishingly special book that describes one real-life year in the author’s work with one family and their seven year old daughter, Reagan, who has autism. The challenges and every day hurdles and stresses, as well as the joys and achievements, that are involved in what to families not dealing with autism would be ordinary events and situations, are described so well by the author. Reagan has a low-functioning form of autism and her need for a rigid routine, difficulty or inability to communicate or express herself and her needs and her general all-round delayed development will be familiar to parents or carers of children with ASD. What really shines through in the book is the determination of Reagan’s mother and carer to continue to believe that she can learn and develop and achieve and reach her own individual full potential. The relentless effort that is needed for this to happen is inspiring and should be an eye opener for anyone not familiar with the facts about bringing up a child with autism.
Reagan makes remarkable progress over the twelve months and the author acknowledges that this is not just due to their own efforts with her – Reagan has a fearless self-belief about many things where “her biggest fears aren't enough to stop her”.
Reagan’s story is an inspiration and has much to teach all of us about embracing and cherishing the individuality of others rather than forcing others to fit some kind of “norm”. I love the title of this book, taken from the well-known quote by Vivian Greene. The message is that when life gives us seemingly impossible or exhausting challenges, the answer lies not in fighting or fearing this “storm”, but in embracing it for what it is ie learning to dance in the rain.
Highly recommended.
Reagan makes remarkable progress over the twelve months and the author acknowledges that this is not just due to their own efforts with her – Reagan has a fearless self-belief about many things where “her biggest fears aren't enough to stop her”.
Reagan’s story is an inspiration and has much to teach all of us about embracing and cherishing the individuality of others rather than forcing others to fit some kind of “norm”. I love the title of this book, taken from the well-known quote by Vivian Greene. The message is that when life gives us seemingly impossible or exhausting challenges, the answer lies not in fighting or fearing this “storm”, but in embracing it for what it is ie learning to dance in the rain.
Highly recommended.
September 30, 2014
Learning to Dance in the Rain was a really sweet diary type book on the life of a young autistic girl. I love the way the author pulled you into the story and made you fall in love with this sweet little girl. There were times that you (the reader) will cheer for her accomplishments and other times that will make you cry. The story was very inspirational and I was thrilled to learn that the events in the story were true. I cannot wait to find out what happens to the little girl and her family next. Perhaps the author will write another book involving the little one's life and accomplishments. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a heart-warming story.
February 22, 2015
This book contains very good information and how to support others who suffer from autism. It gives all the insights that everybody should known either we have a relative with this disorder. So if you have no idea what autism is, then this book is definitely worth to read.
I recommend this book to all those who need information about autism. It’s an excellent guide! Highly recommended!
I recommend this book to all those who need information about autism. It’s an excellent guide! Highly recommended!
November 3, 2014
If you know someone with autism or if you want to know more about autism, this is a wonderful book. I have a teenage grandson with autism, so this book had a lot of meaning for me.
November 16, 2015
Any mother has a busy enough life, and Melanie's practical and positive diary of a year in Atlanta shows a busy lady indeed. She's got her own family and pets, and she's a caregiver for a little girl nearby called Reagan.
What complicates matters is that Reagan has autism, which leads to communication problems and unsociable behaviour. Strong medications are prescribed to settle her, but aside from wondering if they're appropriate for a young child, we see that they are expensive and can have side effects.
Reading about the situation is at first challenging to those of us with more normal lives. Imagine how it must be to live through the situation. Melanie has been coping with Reagan - and her family - for two years at the start of this diary. Gradually matters have been improving as Reagan learns and her adult companions learn to interpret her words or behaviours. Melanie doesn't claim to be a saint, and she's brave enough to show us her perfectly natural reactions. Like not wanting to be bitten, or feeling frustrated or exhausted.
Every morning Reagan has turned her home into a disaster zone, and Melanie spends precious teaching time just picking up after her and putting on a wash. I was instantly unhappy at all the junk food and refined sugars Reagan was eating, thinking that they would be adding to her behavioural issues. Of course, Melanie is aware of this and tries to reduce the fries, chips and syrupy pancakes, in favour of strawberries and grapes. I was actually so relieved when Reagan helps to make, and enjoys a fruit salad bowl. Turns out the medication has the side effect of causing hunger, and there are teaching feedbacks which Reagan has associated with being able to ask for food. Clearly this is a complex issue.
Gradually over the year we see Reagan's life improve. The causes are various - she's on new medication more suited to her age, she's maturing and learning, her widowed mother makes some positive changes. Just dealing with the constant stress and chaos, never knowing how early to be ready to leave for an appointment or how well or otherwise a seven-year-old will behave, must be extremely hard for her carers on a continual basis. The internet turns out to provide ideas shared by other caring families.
Every child with special behavioural needs is different, and seeing how other people in the neighbourhood react can be interesting. People who have a special needs child in the family are relaxed and helpful while people with no familiarity tend to stare and feel uncomfortable if Reagan is eating near them in the fast food café. One of the lessons I would take away from this short book is that we all need to be more familiar with such families, to gain a better understanding and to improve the experience of daily life for the child and their carers. I recommend reading LEARNING TO DANCE IN THE RAIN - to show you a different side of today's society, or to reassure you that you are not alone.
What complicates matters is that Reagan has autism, which leads to communication problems and unsociable behaviour. Strong medications are prescribed to settle her, but aside from wondering if they're appropriate for a young child, we see that they are expensive and can have side effects.
Reading about the situation is at first challenging to those of us with more normal lives. Imagine how it must be to live through the situation. Melanie has been coping with Reagan - and her family - for two years at the start of this diary. Gradually matters have been improving as Reagan learns and her adult companions learn to interpret her words or behaviours. Melanie doesn't claim to be a saint, and she's brave enough to show us her perfectly natural reactions. Like not wanting to be bitten, or feeling frustrated or exhausted.
Every morning Reagan has turned her home into a disaster zone, and Melanie spends precious teaching time just picking up after her and putting on a wash. I was instantly unhappy at all the junk food and refined sugars Reagan was eating, thinking that they would be adding to her behavioural issues. Of course, Melanie is aware of this and tries to reduce the fries, chips and syrupy pancakes, in favour of strawberries and grapes. I was actually so relieved when Reagan helps to make, and enjoys a fruit salad bowl. Turns out the medication has the side effect of causing hunger, and there are teaching feedbacks which Reagan has associated with being able to ask for food. Clearly this is a complex issue.
Gradually over the year we see Reagan's life improve. The causes are various - she's on new medication more suited to her age, she's maturing and learning, her widowed mother makes some positive changes. Just dealing with the constant stress and chaos, never knowing how early to be ready to leave for an appointment or how well or otherwise a seven-year-old will behave, must be extremely hard for her carers on a continual basis. The internet turns out to provide ideas shared by other caring families.
Every child with special behavioural needs is different, and seeing how other people in the neighbourhood react can be interesting. People who have a special needs child in the family are relaxed and helpful while people with no familiarity tend to stare and feel uncomfortable if Reagan is eating near them in the fast food café. One of the lessons I would take away from this short book is that we all need to be more familiar with such families, to gain a better understanding and to improve the experience of daily life for the child and their carers. I recommend reading LEARNING TO DANCE IN THE RAIN - to show you a different side of today's society, or to reassure you that you are not alone.
April 21, 2015
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review!
4.5 stars;
Learning to Dance in the Rain: A Year of Weathering the Storm with an Autistic Child by Melanie Bennett is a book about Melanie’s experience as a caregiver for a young girl, who is severally autistic, named Reagan. Personally, this book left me exhausted – in the best possible way a book could. The book is written as a diary and with Melanie’s writing, you can feel the emotional and mental toll it takes to keep up with a child with such extreme special needs. To care for Regan is so involved, every aspect of each day is planned to the second. I really felt like I was talking to Melanie each day by having all of her personal thoughts and feelings written on the page.
Having learned about those with autism in college, Melanie’s book does an excellent job where most books about autism fail. Melanie does not write her book thinking that the average reader has a basic knowledge of autism. Everything from textured foods to physical pressure therapy is addressed and explained within the book. Most books about autism fail to explain small details, but Learning to Dance in the Rain addresses them all.
There are so many aspect of the book I loved. Reagan herself – she was an amazing little girl and I loved reading about her and Melanie walking through the woods. I loved the insight about collaboration between caregivers, therapists, doctors, and parents. This collaboration isn’t always easy and Melanie was very honest about the difficulties that come with working with other adults. My favorite part of the book? Melanie’s fierce love and protection for Reagan was evident on every page, even throughout the hard times and during times of doubt about caregiving. Melanie loved Reagan and this was evident through every action of Melanie’s. Reagan’s love for Melanie was also very touching – it shows how strong their relationship was despite all the difficulties and hurtles that accompany autism.
4.5 stars;
Learning to Dance in the Rain: A Year of Weathering the Storm with an Autistic Child by Melanie Bennett is a book about Melanie’s experience as a caregiver for a young girl, who is severally autistic, named Reagan. Personally, this book left me exhausted – in the best possible way a book could. The book is written as a diary and with Melanie’s writing, you can feel the emotional and mental toll it takes to keep up with a child with such extreme special needs. To care for Regan is so involved, every aspect of each day is planned to the second. I really felt like I was talking to Melanie each day by having all of her personal thoughts and feelings written on the page.
Having learned about those with autism in college, Melanie’s book does an excellent job where most books about autism fail. Melanie does not write her book thinking that the average reader has a basic knowledge of autism. Everything from textured foods to physical pressure therapy is addressed and explained within the book. Most books about autism fail to explain small details, but Learning to Dance in the Rain addresses them all.
There are so many aspect of the book I loved. Reagan herself – she was an amazing little girl and I loved reading about her and Melanie walking through the woods. I loved the insight about collaboration between caregivers, therapists, doctors, and parents. This collaboration isn’t always easy and Melanie was very honest about the difficulties that come with working with other adults. My favorite part of the book? Melanie’s fierce love and protection for Reagan was evident on every page, even throughout the hard times and during times of doubt about caregiving. Melanie loved Reagan and this was evident through every action of Melanie’s. Reagan’s love for Melanie was also very touching – it shows how strong their relationship was despite all the difficulties and hurtles that accompany autism.
September 7, 2014
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book gives an eye-opening view into the world of autism, told by a close caregiver of a 7 year old autistic girl. While I do not share exactly the same challenges, I have a first grade daughter with sensory issues and sometimes I suspect Aspergers syndrome. While the girl in the book struggles with vocalizations, I was amazed by the similarities that do exist between my daughter and Reagan, from the inability to self-soothe, not potty training until after she turned 4, even being slow to eat with cutlery and an unwillingness to try new foods. I struggle with my daughter using public restrooms (hates hand blow-dryers and unfamiliar toilets) and even change.
I admire the creative approaches the caregiver uses to break through certain barriers with Reagan, from not sleeping into her own bed to using cutlery. It shows what autistic children truly are capable of, given the right encouragement and follow-through. At one point, Reagan dances in a severe rainstorm, and I just had to marvel: the exact same thing happened with my daughter this summer at swimming lessons. The kids were told to get out of the pool because of the thunder, and my daughter stood poolside, dancing happily in a downpour while other girls huddled together under the covered patio.
In the end, you have to realize to live in the present and quit waiting on the storm to come and enjoy each child for as an individual and realize no two children are the same.
This book is a great resource into understanding what it is like caring for an autistic child and never giving up during challenges as progress, while it may be slow, suddenly can happen without expecting it. It also highlights the importance of a support system and thorough follow-through on methods and refusing to give in when it seems giving in is easiest.
This book gives an eye-opening view into the world of autism, told by a close caregiver of a 7 year old autistic girl. While I do not share exactly the same challenges, I have a first grade daughter with sensory issues and sometimes I suspect Aspergers syndrome. While the girl in the book struggles with vocalizations, I was amazed by the similarities that do exist between my daughter and Reagan, from the inability to self-soothe, not potty training until after she turned 4, even being slow to eat with cutlery and an unwillingness to try new foods. I struggle with my daughter using public restrooms (hates hand blow-dryers and unfamiliar toilets) and even change.
I admire the creative approaches the caregiver uses to break through certain barriers with Reagan, from not sleeping into her own bed to using cutlery. It shows what autistic children truly are capable of, given the right encouragement and follow-through. At one point, Reagan dances in a severe rainstorm, and I just had to marvel: the exact same thing happened with my daughter this summer at swimming lessons. The kids were told to get out of the pool because of the thunder, and my daughter stood poolside, dancing happily in a downpour while other girls huddled together under the covered patio.
In the end, you have to realize to live in the present and quit waiting on the storm to come and enjoy each child for as an individual and realize no two children are the same.
This book is a great resource into understanding what it is like caring for an autistic child and never giving up during challenges as progress, while it may be slow, suddenly can happen without expecting it. It also highlights the importance of a support system and thorough follow-through on methods and refusing to give in when it seems giving in is easiest.
August 27, 2014
“I wish that I could educate every person on earth about what it’s like to live daily with an autistic child. I wish I could give everyone a glimpse into our world – the trials and victories, the heartbreak and humor that tangles its way through our lives and hearts. I would like to invite the world to trade judgment for understanding, and snide remarks for encouragement.”
So says Melanie Bennett in her introduction to Learning to Dance in the Rain. In my opinion, this book goes a long way towards doing exactly that.
Learning to Dance in the Rain in a poignant, heartfelt look into the life of the caregivers of special needs (in this case, autism) children. The straightforward, matter-of-fact style of writing informs and educates the reader without the demands for pity which sometimes accompany these types of accounts.
Bennett pulls us into the story. We fall in love with Reagan, cheer with her in her accomplishments and agonize with her caregivers over her set-backs.
This book gives us plenty of food for thought. Even though we may not know anyone with autism personally, we have probably all seen a child misbehave in public. Perhaps after reading this book, we will not be so quick to judge the parent or caregiver, but extend a helping hand or an encouraging word. And, if we take the lessons from Learning to Dance in the Rain, we may learn to appreciate special needs children – and adults – for who they are and dance in the rain with them.
This book is an enjoyable account of one child and caregiver’s year well worth the read
So says Melanie Bennett in her introduction to Learning to Dance in the Rain. In my opinion, this book goes a long way towards doing exactly that.
Learning to Dance in the Rain in a poignant, heartfelt look into the life of the caregivers of special needs (in this case, autism) children. The straightforward, matter-of-fact style of writing informs and educates the reader without the demands for pity which sometimes accompany these types of accounts.
Bennett pulls us into the story. We fall in love with Reagan, cheer with her in her accomplishments and agonize with her caregivers over her set-backs.
This book gives us plenty of food for thought. Even though we may not know anyone with autism personally, we have probably all seen a child misbehave in public. Perhaps after reading this book, we will not be so quick to judge the parent or caregiver, but extend a helping hand or an encouraging word. And, if we take the lessons from Learning to Dance in the Rain, we may learn to appreciate special needs children – and adults – for who they are and dance in the rain with them.
This book is an enjoyable account of one child and caregiver’s year well worth the read
March 10, 2015
This is a daily/weekly caregiver experience in caring for an autistic child. It is chronicled over the course of one year.
With autism on such a dramatic rise in the USA, first hand experiential books like this can be a comforting read for many who are dealing with (ASD) Autism spectrum disorder.
Just a few weeks ago a lady in our church broke down crying during service regarding the care of her autistic granddaughter. She had taken responsibility for her care years ago when her son, the father, refused. It can be overwhelming and lonely at times with little reward.
Books like this that share that experience with others are a Godsend.
The writing style of this book is pleasant, interesting and engaging. The progress of learning and adapting to each unique and individual situation is at times very commendable. The honesty and frankness regarding feelings and emotions is also commendable and I'm sure is of great value to those going through this situation. The growth of Reagan, the child, is also measured and highly valued.
If you find yourself in this scenario, I'm sure you will find solace here in these pages. There are also some very good ideas to help you in your challenging day-to-day life. There is hope and reward.
With autism on such a dramatic rise in the USA, first hand experiential books like this can be a comforting read for many who are dealing with (ASD) Autism spectrum disorder.
Just a few weeks ago a lady in our church broke down crying during service regarding the care of her autistic granddaughter. She had taken responsibility for her care years ago when her son, the father, refused. It can be overwhelming and lonely at times with little reward.
Books like this that share that experience with others are a Godsend.
The writing style of this book is pleasant, interesting and engaging. The progress of learning and adapting to each unique and individual situation is at times very commendable. The honesty and frankness regarding feelings and emotions is also commendable and I'm sure is of great value to those going through this situation. The growth of Reagan, the child, is also measured and highly valued.
If you find yourself in this scenario, I'm sure you will find solace here in these pages. There are also some very good ideas to help you in your challenging day-to-day life. There is hope and reward.
March 19, 2015
A real and beautiful story about Reagan, the girl diagnosed with autism.
What do we really know about autism? I would say that almost nothing.
Lots of people wrongly use the adjective “autistic” to refer people who are very quite or not very talkative but the reality is far away.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, and restricted and repetitive behaviour. Although there is no known cure, some people with autism can live independently after reaching adulthood.
This beautiful book, written in form of diary, tell the story of the personal fight of the author, a caregiver, a mother and a whole family trying to teach their daughter diagnosed with autism, how to survive in this life. How did they get it? With patient, affect and love. I was very amazed to now the progress that Reagan got in just one year.
I highly recommend this book to those people who have relatives with any type of deficiency and need a ray of hope. I have seen many kids with different deficiencies who have overcome to this life and have become more success than even the considered as “normal” people. In the end, persistency is what matters.
What do we really know about autism? I would say that almost nothing.
Lots of people wrongly use the adjective “autistic” to refer people who are very quite or not very talkative but the reality is far away.
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, and restricted and repetitive behaviour. Although there is no known cure, some people with autism can live independently after reaching adulthood.
This beautiful book, written in form of diary, tell the story of the personal fight of the author, a caregiver, a mother and a whole family trying to teach their daughter diagnosed with autism, how to survive in this life. How did they get it? With patient, affect and love. I was very amazed to now the progress that Reagan got in just one year.
I highly recommend this book to those people who have relatives with any type of deficiency and need a ray of hope. I have seen many kids with different deficiencies who have overcome to this life and have become more success than even the considered as “normal” people. In the end, persistency is what matters.
September 6, 2014
I truly enjoyed reading this book by Melanie L. Bennett. The story is about a year in the life of a girl who has autism. The obstacles she overcame in that year were amazing.
I have a son who has autism so I could relate to this book on so many levels. There were many times that I laughed out loud because I knew exactly what was going on, for having experienced it myself with my son. I found myself cheering the family and caregiver on throughout the book and was really rooting for the girl to overcome certain obstacles. I had tears in my eyes either from laughing or getting choked up as I went through this book.
I am so glad to have read this as it was nice to see someone else with similar challenges as my son. It makes one feel not so alone on this journey. I appreciate the author taking the time with this child in the book and for sharing the story with us readers. It really was a great book with a good insight into the life of a child with autism.
I highly recommend this book and give it 5 ***** all the way around. It was excellent writing and well worth the read.
I have a son who has autism so I could relate to this book on so many levels. There were many times that I laughed out loud because I knew exactly what was going on, for having experienced it myself with my son. I found myself cheering the family and caregiver on throughout the book and was really rooting for the girl to overcome certain obstacles. I had tears in my eyes either from laughing or getting choked up as I went through this book.
I am so glad to have read this as it was nice to see someone else with similar challenges as my son. It makes one feel not so alone on this journey. I appreciate the author taking the time with this child in the book and for sharing the story with us readers. It really was a great book with a good insight into the life of a child with autism.
I highly recommend this book and give it 5 ***** all the way around. It was excellent writing and well worth the read.
July 28, 2014
Great book! An eye-opener, for sure. I was amazed as I read this book which focuses on an autistic girl and her caregiver. The amount of patience, love, and skill required to deal with the special needs child is astounding. Daily life is a never-ending struggle and a constant source of hope and pride at accomplishments also. I enjoyed reading all about the 7 year old girl Reagan as she makes such strides in the year chronicled in the book. I definitely gained some insight into what is involved in taking care of these children, but also how to interact with them. I can see the signs of autism in children I've come across. I didn't realize there was such a wide spectrum of types of autism and that each child is different. Though I suppose that's the case with all children, gifted or special needs. I would highly recommend this book, and thanks to the author for the complimentary issue to review. It is a compelling, interesting story that kept my attention throughout the entire book, and I feel better for having read it. I'd like to see more from the author Melanie Bennett.
July 28, 2014
It was very interesting to follow along as reagan gained the independence that she did. Reading the experiences of how she went from being violent at times to gaining her own independence was an interesting journey.. I am definitely giving this book to my friend who has a son with autism. I believe she will find it as uplifting and a positive read as i did. Watching her independence grow was also a lesson for me on how to deal with autistic children. Upon communicating with the author about this book, and expressing my want to read it and i was sad about not winning a copy on goodreads she offered to send me a free copy, After receiving it i was very pleased to provide a review upon completion. The author wasnt telling everybody's story of working with a child with autism, she was telling her own. Being it was her own experiences made it more personal to understand the struggles of being the primary care provider for a child with austism. I felt as if i was watching Reagan grow up right before my eyes. very well written.
June 7, 2015
I received this book as a gift from the author in exchange for a review.it's the story of a little girl with Autism.I loved the book and the story was told with love-respect and consideration of her medical condition. Years ago I read a lot of books about children with autism, but they weren't written with such insight into the mind of the child as this one. The book tells how so much can be done with patience-understanding and rule setting boundries. This little girl made great progress in the year that the story encompases. I think everyone could get a lot from reading this book, so the next time you see a child acting up in public we won't be so quick to blame the parent or caregiver. The child may have a behavior or development problem. The parents and caregiver worked diligently to help this child and make her like happy. I guess I haven't come up with the best words to describe this book, but I'd recommend it to everyone.
August 11, 2014
This certainly was a well-deserved 5-Star reading for me. Being retired several years now and working as a paraprofessional, I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
There were moments in the story of frustration for Reagan and for both Melanie and Marlee, and for me as well. I found myself asking "Why" Reagan and the other 1000's of children, why them?
But there were happy times as well . . . When Reagan was able to do things on her own, the spelling, the putting words together, the puzzle solving and all the work that is helping Reagan. As a parapro, it's these moments that make my new career rewarding and reinforces what I do does indeed make a difference.
So thank you Melanie for writing this book, it has left a mark in my heart - I will pass the story along to not only the other parapros but to the other wonderful, incredible teachers that I have the pleasure to work with.
There were moments in the story of frustration for Reagan and for both Melanie and Marlee, and for me as well. I found myself asking "Why" Reagan and the other 1000's of children, why them?
But there were happy times as well . . . When Reagan was able to do things on her own, the spelling, the putting words together, the puzzle solving and all the work that is helping Reagan. As a parapro, it's these moments that make my new career rewarding and reinforces what I do does indeed make a difference.
So thank you Melanie for writing this book, it has left a mark in my heart - I will pass the story along to not only the other parapros but to the other wonderful, incredible teachers that I have the pleasure to work with.
April 17, 2015
I am definitely more knowledgeable about autism that I was before reading this book about a year in the life of an autistic child. My heart goes out to her and her family. It must be so difficult for the child who cannot relate to others and cannot express their feelings. Each child is different and requires such special handling. Every special needs child deserves a caregiver as wonderful as the one in this story. I recently heard that one in 174 babies are born with some degree of autism. Staggering statistics which show that autism is a condition we all should know more about, and it may affect all of our lives eventually. Autistic children grow into autistic adults who require ongoing supervision and care. Diagnosis should be made early in their life and training is an ongoing challenge. This book is a real eye-opener! Glad I read it.
April 22, 2015
If you have ever wondered what it is like to live with or care for a child with autism Learning to Dance in the Rain: A Year of Weathering the Storm with an Autistic Child by Melanie Bennett is a good read.
The book is written in journal/diary style. Each day being a chapter. Nothing is left out of what happens each day. Melanie tells the good (a day at the hairdressers) and the bad (Reagan's melt downs when things don't go her way) of each day with an autistic child.
Melanie does a great job of teaching us so much more than was learned in college about autism. She explains stimming, aversions to certain foods and textures, learning to take turns and so much more. This book would make a great addition to Education courses.
The book is written in journal/diary style. Each day being a chapter. Nothing is left out of what happens each day. Melanie tells the good (a day at the hairdressers) and the bad (Reagan's melt downs when things don't go her way) of each day with an autistic child.
Melanie does a great job of teaching us so much more than was learned in college about autism. She explains stimming, aversions to certain foods and textures, learning to take turns and so much more. This book would make a great addition to Education courses.
August 3, 2014
This was a wonderful book! I grew to really love Reagan as I watched her progress through the year. What an amazing young lady! Melanie's commitment to helping Reagan learn social skills is extraordinary. Her writing style is delightful too. Reading her stories really warmed my heart. This would be a great book for just about everyone, but especially those who have a family member or neighbor with autism. It's a great tool for helping others understand the complexities of caring for a child with autism.
March 26, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. The story of precious Reagan broke my heart and also opened my eyes to what autistic children, their families, and those who care for them go through. I have several people who are close to me who have battled through some of this but not to the extent mentioned in the story.
I'm really thankful that the author wrote this book and I hope many people read it and understand a little bit more, hopefully making them more sensitive to both the challenges and bravery of individuals with special needs.
I'm really thankful that the author wrote this book and I hope many people read it and understand a little bit more, hopefully making them more sensitive to both the challenges and bravery of individuals with special needs.
December 29, 2015
I was contacted by the author to read this book for an honest review.
I found the book really interesting. It read like a journal and it was a year in the life of Reagan, a sweet little girl with severe autism.
This book gives you an inside look at what families and caregivers go through. It really opened my eyes and I really admired the tenacity and strength Melanie had when it came to being that caregiver.
The following statement is so true.
“If you’ve seen one child with autism, you’ve seen ONE child with autism.”
I found the book really interesting. It read like a journal and it was a year in the life of Reagan, a sweet little girl with severe autism.
This book gives you an inside look at what families and caregivers go through. It really opened my eyes and I really admired the tenacity and strength Melanie had when it came to being that caregiver.
The following statement is so true.
“If you’ve seen one child with autism, you’ve seen ONE child with autism.”
August 10, 2014
A great book about the trials and tribulations as well as the hard work, determination and rewards one sows and reaps when caring for a special needs child.
I not only learned a great deal but was also amazed at the depth of love and support that was demonstrated to Regan by not only by her mother, but by Melanie as well.
A great read and tool!
I not only learned a great deal but was also amazed at the depth of love and support that was demonstrated to Regan by not only by her mother, but by Melanie as well.
A great read and tool!
June 30, 2015
I've always had a special place in my heart for autistic children and Reagan is no exception! I learned some new things as the author brought me through a one year journey in the life of a family dealing with an adorable and fantastic little girl!
I hope to see more from Melanie Bennett on Reagan!
I hope to see more from Melanie Bennett on Reagan!
May 10, 2015
This was a very insightful book about what it's like to be the caregiver of an autistic child.
August 3, 2018
I'm glad I persevered through this book. Once I made peace with the fact that the writing was mediocre I was able to enjoy learning about autism through the eyes of a caregiver/teacher. I want to know more about what has happened to Reagan now.
March 7, 2016
Learning to Dance in the Rain is a perfect title for Melanie Bennett’s account of her time spent caring for and educating an autistic girl named Reagan. While Melanie provides many wonderful educational experiences for Reagan, the girl also teaches Melanie. Their relationship is complex: teacher, caregiver, disciplinarian, trusted friend.
Preparation is one of Melanie’s greatest tools. She calls ahead to check whether the staff in a restaurant or hair salon is willing to take the extra time and effort Reagan needs. She tells Reagan what’s going to happen, so it’s less of an unnerving surprise. In one scene, Melanie promises Reagan that when they go to the salon, the nail specialist will trim only Reagan’s big toes. When the specialist tries to trim the rest, Melanie stops her. Melanie made a promise to Reagan. That’s how trust is built.
Melanie also tries to educate the people they meet. She carries cards that explain some facts about autism and hands them out. She wears a t-shirt that reads “I have a friend with autism.”
This book is fascinating, not because it explains autism but because it explains some of difficulties and rewards involved in working with one autistic child. By the end of the book, the reader is cheering on Reagan’s hard-won successes.
I would recommend this book to everyone. Autism is part of our world, and the struggles of the one individual featured in this book give it a face we can see and a person we can relate to.
Preparation is one of Melanie’s greatest tools. She calls ahead to check whether the staff in a restaurant or hair salon is willing to take the extra time and effort Reagan needs. She tells Reagan what’s going to happen, so it’s less of an unnerving surprise. In one scene, Melanie promises Reagan that when they go to the salon, the nail specialist will trim only Reagan’s big toes. When the specialist tries to trim the rest, Melanie stops her. Melanie made a promise to Reagan. That’s how trust is built.
Melanie also tries to educate the people they meet. She carries cards that explain some facts about autism and hands them out. She wears a t-shirt that reads “I have a friend with autism.”
This book is fascinating, not because it explains autism but because it explains some of difficulties and rewards involved in working with one autistic child. By the end of the book, the reader is cheering on Reagan’s hard-won successes.
I would recommend this book to everyone. Autism is part of our world, and the struggles of the one individual featured in this book give it a face we can see and a person we can relate to.
April 9, 2015
An inspirational and heartwarming book.
As someone who has worked with autistic kids, I appreciated the incredible patience of caregiver Melanie exhibited in this year-long account of her life with 7-year-old Reagan. It’s no cake walk. In fascinating detail, the author shows us how molding the life of an autistic child requires all of one’s energy and focus, yet there are rewards when we see the incrementally small changes in behavior. In addition to the gratification of contributing to a child having a fuller and more satisfying life.
As someone who has worked with autistic kids, I appreciated the incredible patience of caregiver Melanie exhibited in this year-long account of her life with 7-year-old Reagan. It’s no cake walk. In fascinating detail, the author shows us how molding the life of an autistic child requires all of one’s energy and focus, yet there are rewards when we see the incrementally small changes in behavior. In addition to the gratification of contributing to a child having a fuller and more satisfying life.
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