Autism Society Ontario
Halton Chapter
Chapter
Lending
Library Catalog
Option Institute
(The Son-Rise Program.SM)
Barry Neil and Samahria Kaufman, founders of The Option Institute and Fellowship, pioneered their own method of working with children with autism.
In the book Son-Rise, Barry Kaufman describes his son as exhibiting many of the characteristics of autism. At eighteen months, Raun was formally diagnosed as autistic and functionally retarded by psychiatric and developmental professionals. After searching nationwide without finding a program that would offer hope for Raun's recovery they designed an intensive stimulation program based on an
attitude of unconditional love and acceptance. After three years of this home-based, parent-directed program, Raum completely emerged from his condition with no signs of autism.
As a result of great demand from parents wishing to learn more about the method, the Kaufmans founded The Option Institute and Fellowship. The Institute offers training for families wishing to create home-based Son- Rise Programs for their special children.
At present, no formal studies or evaluations have validated the effectiveness of the Son-Rise Program as a treatment for children with autism. The program requires immense commitment and dedication on the part of the child's family.
RESOURCE
The Option Institute and Fellowship, 2080 South Undermountain Road. Sheffield, MA 01257. +(413)
229-2100/FAX:+(413) 229-8931
SUGGESTED READING
Kaufman, Barry Neil. Son-Rise. New York: Warner Books, Harper and Row, 1976. (Revised version is
scheduled for publication in early 1994)
Kaufman, Barry Neil. A Miracle To Believe In, New York: Ballantine Books, Random House, 1981.