Positive Partnerships is proud to offer a new resource called Autism, Our Kids, Our Stories: Voices of Aboriginal Parents Across Australia.
Positive Partnerships has addressed the lack of awareness or recognition of autism in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. Focusing on the lack of appropriate services, appropriate diagnostic assessments and tools, the absence of trusted relationships, and the fear of shame and blame, have led to fewer children being formally diagnosed with autism.
This illustrated book aims to connect with community and raise awareness through the authentic voice of lived experience and features 10 stories of Aboriginal families with a child on the autism spectrum and is available free for parents, carers, communities and schools across Australia via email request: and .
Autism is also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Autism is a developmental disorder that occurs in boys and girls across all cultures and communities. Autism affects how a person learns and interacts with others and their surroundings. All people on the autism spectrum are unique.
People on the autism spectrum have strengths and skills, too, so progress can be made with regular, consistent support.
Communicating: People on the autism spectrum may have problems understanding others, talking about their own feelings, following instructions, or maintaining a conversation.
Socialising: People on the autism spectrum may like to play alone or have problems making and keeping friends. They may not know how to join in a game or activity with others and find social situations difficult.
Behaving: People on the autism spectrum may have problems behaving appropriately in certain situations and environments. They may dislike change, have a strong interest in a particular topic or repeat actions or movements over and over again.
Coping with the environment: People on the autism spectrum may have problems coping with noise, touch, certain smells, certain tastes, movement or people and objects around them.
Learning: People on the autism spectrum may find learning difficult at times due to problems with attention and concentration, planning and organisation, understanding what is expected and staying motivated. They often have problems with communication skills, social situations, behaviour, coping with their environment and learning.
What can you do if you are worried about your child?
Children develop at different times and rates. If you are concerned about your child’s development, see your doctor or child health nurse. It is better to have any concern checked than to ‘wait and see’.
