Understanding Autism: A Neurodiversity Affirming Guidebook for Children and Teens

Autistic children and teens may have a challenging time understanding their diagnosis and neurodivergence. Professionals and parents may also struggle with understanding autism and neurodiversity. This guidebook is designed to help professionals and parents utilize neurodiversity affirming approaches to explain autism to children and teens. The first half of the guidebook provides a through explanation of neurodiversity and addressing and working with autistic children and teens through a neurodiversity affirming approach. Listening to autistic voices and working from a strengths-based approach are highlighted.

The second half of the book presents a series of worksheets, each covering a different topic related to gaining awareness about self and autism and helping children and teens accurately understand what it means to be autistic. Through each worksheet, children and teens can express their thoughts and feelings and ask questions. The guidebook also provides a guide for professionals and parents offering instructions, information, and suggestions for implementing and processing through each worksheet page. Professionals and parents will find Understanding Autism a valuable tool in assisting autistic children and teens. Children and teens will enjoy the engaging worksheets as they discover and process through their identity.