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In a recent training session I attended, the term ‘camouflaging’ was used repeatedly. This raised some questions for me, specifically what is camouflaging in autism and how (if at all) does it differ from masking. “Masking is not only about hiding my weaknesses; it’s also about hiding my strengths because they are not always well […]

When trying to use Neuroaffirming Autistic Identity language, are we at risk of denying Autistic people’s identity? Words matter! They can shape the way that people view and think about autism. When delivering Autism training I can feel slightly nervous when discussing terminology. I desperately want to model how to use neuroaffirming language to others, […]

We were speaking at a PGSend Conference this week, and to prepare for this, Michelle wrote about some of her recommended resources for parents and professionals. This blog post contains a sample of information and links… Here are some links to our favourite resources for information about Autism: 1, Autism Education Trust (AET). This is […]

Planning ahead / routine: So much changes during the Christmas season it’s helpful to plan ahead, prepare and set clear expectations for everyone. “We try to pace it to avoid overwhelming him”  “We plan ahead and give him a visual planner” “Social stories for new experiences, with lots of photos of what to expect”  “Advent […]

Autism and Selective Mutism: Tips to help navigate the Christmas Holidays It is known as the most wonderful time of the year, but for autistic individuals the Christmas holidays can also bring feelings of anxiety and discomfort. The social aspect of the festivities can be particularly challenging for those with a co-occurring diagnosis of autism […]

Let’s talk! While visiting our local Christmas Tree festival this year, I realised what a perfect opportunity Christmas Trees give us to communicate! They can be so motivating, with lots to look at (and if you’re lucky enough to have a real tree, even smell!). As a team we designed this simple communication board and […]

Last year we posted about our top 10 ideas for Christmas gifts ideas for Autistic teenagers. We’re sharing again for inspiration (in case, like us, you’ve started to plan already….). Teenagers can be tricky customers when it comes to presents, so here is our original list of top 10 gift ideas, with some added extras […]

We’ve scoured the web for Christmas experiences and relaxed theatre performances around Warwickshire and Birmingham this Christmas… EXPERIENCES: What? Visit Santa in his grotto Where? Touchwood, Solihull When? Friday 29th November 2024, Fridays 6th, 13th, 20th December 2024 Weblink? https://www.birmingham-rocks.co.uk/things-to-do/santas-grotto—touchwood-solihull What? “Step into a storybook adventure” and explore this winter wonderland Where? Magic Alley, Stratford-Updon-Avon […]

Autumn offers a multitude of sensory-rich experiences for children with autism and sensory challenges. The outdoors is the perfect playground for activities that provide opportunities for learning, communication and socialisation, and sensory exploration. So put on your wellies and enjoy everything that autumn has to offer. Ideas to stimulate the senses and promote regulation: Pumpkin […]

Managing Halloween for Autism Children: Tips for a Fun and Stress-Free Experience Halloween is just around the corner! It can be a really fun time of the year, but it can also be scary for neurodivergent children for more than one reason.  It can be difficult for those children who struggle with sensory processing and […]