We’re Amazing 1, 2, 3!
Help kids celebrate their similarities and differences.
- Tell kids they’re going to meet someone special: Elmo’s autistic friend Julia.
- Read the storybook together—as many times as you like! Talk about what kids find interesting, and answer their questions.
- Begin a conversation about understanding someone who is different. Ask, “What are some things about Julia that Abby doesn’t understand?” Like, why she doesn’t answer when Abby says hi, why she doesn’t look at Abby when she speaks, and so on. Then ask, “How does Elmo help Abby understand?” He tells her that Julia finds it hard to talk while swinging, he explains that he sometimes talks slowly to Julia and repeats what he says several times, and so on.
- Encourage children to act out what they do when they are excited, or how they show they are worried.
Julia and Rose – Best Friends Fur-Ever
When Julia has an idea, she sees it through… with a little help from her family. This social story for autistic children models what’s possible!
Super Helper
Finding ways to help their family can be a great way for autistic children to build skills and pursue goals.
Time for a Treat
Sometimes autistic children—and all children—need a little help from others to reach their goals.
Where Should We Go?
Even taking a walk around the neighborhood can offer opportunities for autistic children to make choices—and have fun!
Teaching Self-Determination Skills
Try these playful activities to help your child develop important self-determination skills.
Setting and Achieving Goals
With support from a caring grown-up, autistic children can set goals, make a plan, and accomplish big things!
Forging Furry Friendships: How Human-Animal Interventions Can Support Autistic Children’s Well-Being
In this webinar, you’ll learn about the science of human-animal bonds and specifically how animal interventions can support autistic children’s well-being.
