Full Description
This informative and engaging guidebook provides key adults - parents, school staff and therapists - with the tools needed to support children and young people as they develop a positive understanding of their Autistic identity.
The guidebook is designed to accompany the Autism, Identity and Me workbook, building the adult's understanding of autism and Autistic identity, expanding upon the themes introduced and offering a clear and structured program of sessions to guide the young person through the workbook. Written with a US readership in mind, the guidebook has been shaped by Autistic advisors and contributors, with first-hand experiences woven throughout, alongside examples of possible "prompts", what to focus on as a lead adult and a variety of concrete, neurodiversity-affirming strategies. Having a positive understanding of your Autistic identity is an indicator of higher self-esteem and wellbeing as an adult.
This guidebook supports the development of this and will be valuable for all adults working with Autistic children and young people aged 10+. For effective use, this guide should be purchased alongside the workbook, Autism, Identity and Me: A Practical Workbook to Empower Autistic Children and Young People Aged 10+.
Contents
1. Introduction
2. Background Information
3. What Is Autism?
4. Sensory Differences
5. Emotions, Anxiety and Masking
6. Autism and Other Identities: Gender
7. Ableism
8. Debunking Myths
9. Using the Workbook
10. Section Guidance
Session 1: My physical identity; my personality and interests; feeling different
Session 2: What autism is; interests and focus
Session 3: Social and communication
Session 4: Sensory
Session 5: Routine and structure; masking, stimming; emotions and energy levels
Session 6: Other autistic individuals; my toolkit; my personal passport; my autistic identity statement; self-advocacy
Resources
