This empowering workbook and guide will help children and young people to develop a positive understanding of their autistic identity, whilst providing key adults with the tools needed to support their journey and initiate important conversations.

The workbook is highly structured and visual, broken down into key sections such as Interests and Focus, Masking, Emotions and My Autistic Identity Statement to create a personal passport and to develop a deeper understanding of what autism means to the young person as an individual. The accompanying guide provides background information, covering topics such as the social and medical models of disability and Monotropism, as well as a clear approach to help the adult to initiate key conversations, with examples of 'possible prompts' as well as concrete, supportive strategies. Content has been shaped by autistic advisors and contributors, with first-hand experiences woven throughout both books.

Having a positive understanding of your autistic identity is an indicator of higher self-esteem and wellbeing as an adult. This set supports the development of this and will be valuable for autistic children and young people aged 10+ and the adults working with them.

About the Author

Rebecca Duffus is an experienced Advisory Teacher with a Psychology Degree and a Masters in Autism and Education. She has many years of experience working in both mainstream and specialist education settings as well as within local authority and education services. Rebecca has been a speaker at conferences across the UK, developed a range of parent programmes, and provides training and coaching for settings. Rebecca is passionate about celebrating neurodiversity.

Reviews

"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

"These books are innovative as they help autistic young people to own their autism diagnosis. This book duo supports autistic young people to find a safe space to explore their autistic identity, diagnosis and newfound life trajectory. Using non-medical jargon and empowering, yet factual, information, Rebecca has created a non-judgemental and non-infantilised place to not only support but explore what comes next." -Carly Jones MBE, British autism advocate

"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

Book Information
ISBN 9781032261027
Author Rebecca Duffus
Page Count 286
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 1200g