Talking with Your Child about Their Autism Diagnosis

This guide offers parents practical advice on discussing autism with their diagnosed child and navigating conversations with others. Talking with Your Child about Their Autism Diagnosis is a supportive resource.

Navigating the journey of discussing a child's autism diagnosis can be challenging for many parents. Talking with Your Child about Their Autism Diagnosis serves as both a practical guide and a source of emotional support for families grappling with this new reality. This comprehensive resource helps parents determine who should be informed about the diagnosis and offers strategies for explaining it to their child in an age-appropriate manner. With photocopiable worksheets included, this book aids children in understanding autism, making the conversation more accessible and less intimidating.

The process of telling a child about their autism diagnosis raises many questions. Parents often wonder if their child will benefit from knowing, the best way to approach the conversation, and whether to share the news with others. Raelene Dundon, a mother of two children on the spectrum and an experienced psychologist specializing in childhood autism, draws on her personal and professional expertise to provide valuable insights. In the first part of the book, she outlines methods for discussing the diagnosis with children of various ages and developmental stages, including practical worksheets designed to facilitate understanding.

In the second part, Talking with Your Child about Their Autism Diagnosis delves into the complexities of sharing the diagnosis with family, friends, educators, and peers. Dundon addresses the potential challenges of communication and offers guidance on handling misunderstandings or resistance from others. This book is an essential tool for any family looking to navigate the path of autism with confidence and compassion.