Transition Book

Bridget Carter – Mother of 2 Autistic Adults

Bridget Carter is a mum passionate about a strength‐based approach to Autism. Since her eldest son was diagnosed with Autism at age 3. Now, after 21 years researching, studying and working in the Autism community, Bridget brings her learnings to this book.

Bridget knows personally, that every single person is different ‐ if you have met 1 person with Autism, you have met 1 person.

With a background in early childhood education and experience supporting many diverse learners, Bridget brings a unique perspective to teaching and learning about Autism.

Bridget has also been a writer and presenter for an innovative Narrative assessment project, Tips for Autism, and has recently written her own Parent story, that she is presenting to Educators, Support staff, and Whānau about transition success.

Bridget has also contributed to a teacher education textbook (“Inclusion in Action 6th Edition”) about her parenting and schooling experiences in relation to communicating with autistic children. Her focus is very clear ‐ a strength‐based model of teaching and learning is life‐changing.

Recently Bridget has been a Connector working with Enabling Good lives (Christchurch, NZ). This role involves working alongside ORS (Ongoing Resourcing Scheme) students, their Whānau (family), community, school, and supports with transitions from school.

Bridget has also been a National educator for Autism New Zealand and has recently given up this role to focus on her book and her youngest son’s biggest transition of his life, leaving school.

Bridget has also supported many other families, particularly with realising they are not alone, to give them hope and that there person is an amazing unique human being.

Bridget’s huge drive, passion and dedication for Autism comes from her own personal journey with her 2 sons that she describes as been given the biggest gift in life.

She brings a unique perspective both professionally and as a parent. Bridget describes focussing on her own son’s strengths and interests and unique learning style has been a great success to breaking down many barriers.

Bridget’s book, Transition Success was originally written for both her younger son and readers that are supporting him, including future Employers.

This idea has come from many years of having to tell her story over and over. Having to explain to others about her children and how they learn, that they are capable and have huge potential when others focus on their strengths –what they can do and what motivates and inspires them. This approach to understanding how they learn helps to support them to thrive.

This book has been a huge success for my younger son as he has a big team of supporters (champions) in his life. These champions work in education and provide support at work and during leisure activities.

This book is unique in the way that it is written. That is, for the Autistic person, their family and support networks to engage with and learn from. Ultimately, this book is about providing hope and opportunities for all Autistic children, youth and adults.

This book is Co-written with a friend of mine who is proudly ADHD and was diagnosed in her last year of her Speech and language therapy degree.