I recently shared on our monthly Open Studio about strength-based approaches to Autism. In my music therapy practice, I have a lot of resources that inform me of the deficits of individuals with Autism and how to enhance their skills to be successful in a "neurotypical, non-autistic" society. However, I have always felt that something was missing. For me, the missing piece was listening to the Autistic community and their experiences of coming into themselves, finding their identity, and taking on their challenge of listening and learning.
The following list of resources contains information that has informed and shaped my understanding of autism as a non-Autistic person. I hope that it serves as a spark in your own journey, as well!
Author, Ido Kedar, is an autistic-self advocate and the author of a two books. In Two Worlds is his first novel, offering an insider's perspective into autism and life in silence. Read it for the warmth, humor, and sharp intellect that will challenge your perception of the autistic voice.
The first book by author, Ido Kedar, Ido in Autismland, is a collection of short, autobiographical essays, offering insights into autism symptoms, effective and ineffective treatments and the inner emotional life of his life from birth to 16yrs of age. Read it for the real life emotions and experiences of the author, and his own insight into where "Autism professionals" are missing the mark, and what research still needs to be explored.
Creator, Meg Proctor, founder of Learn, Play, Thrive LLC created "Two Sides of the Spectrum", a twice-monthly podcast that explores research, amplifies autistic voices, and seeks to change the way we think about autism in life and in occupational therapy practice. Listen for the content that features content by Autistic guests and models what it looks like for professionals to make paradigm shifts in their practice to more effectively and authentically serve their clients.
This open access book marks the first historical overview of the autism rights branch of the neurodiversity movement, describing the activities and rationales of key leaders in their own words since it organized into a unique community in 1992. Read for the broader and deeper understanding of Neurodiversity and the Neurodiversity movement as experienced by the 21 authors in 19 chapters.