Description
Book SynopsisThis 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 programme of sessions to guide the young person through the workbook. Content 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
Trade Review
"This guidebook is innovative as it helps autistic young people own their autism diagnosis, whereas it’s likely the pathway thus far has been directed by a medical and/or parental perspective. This book assists adults to support autistic young people to find a safe space to explore their autistic identity, diagnosis and newfound life trajectory." – Carly Jones MBE, British Autism Advocate
"Autism, Identity and Me not only reflects Rebecca’s ethos, it is a structured, easy to follow, informative and invaluable text which covers all areas of autism from what it actually is through to every element of the day to day life of an autistic child. I will be using this book in my own practice." – Andrew Whitehouse, SEND Consultant, Andrew Whitehouse Ltd
"Feeling different can be an upsetting, frustrating and terrifying experience, especially as a child. Rebecca's book is a great resource to help young people and the adults supporting them to navigate an autism diagnosis." – Dr Jenna Kenyani, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Wellbeing Adviser, University of Liverpool
"Rebecca’s book is a great resource for guiding strength-based conversations about a young person’s autistic identity. The book focuses on individual similarities and differences, whilst encouraging a sense of shared identity and connection to others. This is a great resource for supporting young people to explore their individual strengths and skills, whilst developing a sense of pride. A recommended read!" – Dr Claire Prosser BEM, Educational Psychologist, Spectropolis – Pay it Forward
"This book has helped me get a grip on my autism and understand it more. It allows me to see the reasons, know why I’m doing all this stuff that neurotypicals wouldn’t do, and makes me feel better – good – that I wasn't alone in this." – Daniel, Young Person
Table of ContentsAcknowledgements
-
- Introduction
-
- Background information
-
- What is autism?
- Sensory differences
- Emotions, anxiety and masking
-
- Girls
-
- Debunking myths
-
- Using the workbook
-
- 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
References
