My Awesome Autism

The importance of representation for neurodivergent children

My son, Tyler, received his autism diagnosis at the age of three. At this stage, I wanted to write a book about our life, but I was too consumed by trying to figure out the best way to navigate our journey. I soon learnt that our life was remarkably different to that of others around me and that not everyone understood autism the way we did.

When Tyler was nine, he wanted to explore his autism diagnosis further and learn about the general differences that we can and cannot see. In 2019, I searched bookshops, but was

Chloe Abbott

Educational Consultant unable to find anything. I asked the assistant for a children’s book about autism or one with an autistic character and she replied: “We don’t stock that sort of book.” At a later date, I was told to search the self-help section. As disappointing as it was to hear, those words sent me on a journey to create my own book for Tyler - I wanted better for him and for all children!

I spent ages on my very first book - My Awesome Autismscribbling away and wanting to get it right for Tyler. I wanted him to feel represented and empowered. We read the book together at bedtime, and his reaction to the book and his character, Eddie, was so amazing - even if he did laugh at my stick- men - that I went on to publish My Awesome Autism for other children and families.

I created Eddie to look like Tyler in appearance, so he has blonde hair and beautiful big brown eyes. I named Eddie after

• Introductory meeting to get to know your family and your child/children

• Assessment when required to establish your child’s levels

• School advice for both primary and secondary in the London area and beyond

• Support and advice on suitable school choices

• Booster sessions in key exam skills

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Tyler’s great grandfather, who passed away a few days after Tyler was born. Therefore, the books and series as a whole are very special to us. Alongside my SEN role, I also created more stories for siblings and for various social situations, such as starting school.

I was then extremely fortunate to join hands with James Murphy at Hocus Pocus Animation Studio to create Ready Eddie GO! the TV show for Sky Kids, based on our amazing character and Tyler’s authentic experiences. We ensured that the series’ authenticity carried through to the show, which is underpinned by many of my son’s real life experiences. The team celebrates and showcases autistic writers, animators and voice artists who bring their own voice, strengths and experiences which also connect with the audience.

I then wanted to create a series of workbooks to correlate with a variety of episodes in the show. I created a set of five:

Painting - learning all about mistakes and opportunities.

The Birthday Party - which explores different party themes and strategies to manage attending parties.

Dressing Up - to explore different textures, itchy labels and that you do not have to dress up if you do not wish to.

Board Games - learning about winning and losing and managing those emotions.

New Haircut - enabling children to learn what to expect at the hairdressers and document their experience and emotions.

The feedback from parents has been truly incredible and very heartwarming! When my son took the books to school, he was so proud of himself and his strengths - it was a very special moment for him.

My children’s reactions to the launch of the show were just wonderful! They were so proud to be a part of it and to know that their experiences are so important and have helped shape Ready Eddie Go! To witness this on their faces was very fulfilling.

We are currently working on season two which is out this year on Sky Kids! My aim for the show and the books is that Ready Eddie Go! helps empower children and supports them in new situations and environments. I hope Eddie continues to help children feel represented, understood by others, supported and valued for who they are in every way. We are all unique and different and that is something to be celebrated!

NIKKI SAUNDERS Author www.nrsaunders.com www.readyeddiego.com

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