Noticing that autistic people can have very different experiences from one another.
Exploring the kinds of things that help a person feel comfortable and ready to communicate.
Considering how a person's interests, strengths, and ways of thinking are part of who they are.
Thinking about what it means to really listen to and accept someone for who they are.
Reflecting on what good friendship can look like for different people.
Autistic children (animated) from different backgrounds share their own experiences of being autistic, in their own words. They describe things like sensory experiences, how they like to move and regulate, and what helps them feel comfortable. The children talk about their strengths, their interests, and what they want others to know about them. They share what good friendship looks like to them and how they feel when people take the time to understand them.
• What did you notice about how the children in the video described being autistic?
• Was there anything said that felt close to your own experience?
• What is something about the way your brain works that you think is great?
• What is one thing you wish more people understood about you?
• What does it feel like when someone accepts you as you are?
The questions within this guide are designed to open dialogue and facilitate discussion around the relevant topics. It is up to the user to adapt as needed to best suit the person they are supporting. A neuroaffirming approach was central to the design of these resources and remains essential to their application. This means recognising and respecting the diverse ways people think, communicate, and experience the world, ensuring all conversations are led with curiosity, respect, and without judgement. These resources are a starting point. Trust your knowledge of the person you are supporting to shape the conversation from there.
For access to playback speed, transcripts or closed captions, please click the video title in the top left of the player to access the Youtube source where these controls are provisioned.
We are always looking to grow and improve this resource and would love to hear from you. Whether you have a suggestion for a clip or topic, a question about your subscription, or feedback to share, please do not hesitate to reach out.
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