Hello dear friend, 

As you might know I am very passionate about autism awareness since I have am autistic son, and today I bring you a story that filled my heart with joy. I wrote my middle grade series Risho & Kaia based on my children in the hope that adults, teachers and children better understand what autism is. By the reader putting themselves in the main char...

A boy with autism. A girl in danger. As two lost siblings travel to a magical land, can they find a way to save each other?

Risho is tired of being different. Even though he has fae blood and carries a powerful stone of protection, the struggling lad still feels trapped by mean bullies and the troubles of daily life. But after his younger sister is kidnapped by an evil wizard, he bravely vows to bring her home.

Kaia loves her older brother with all her heart. Yet the way everyone focuses on his problems makes her feel invisible. But when she’s abducted through a portal to a strange kingdom, the frustrated child finds more excitement than she ever desir...

WHAT IS AUTISM?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a difference in the way a kid’s brain develops. Kids with autism may have trouble understanding the world around them. Kids with autism might have trouble:

• Talking and learning the meaning of words.
• Making friends or fitting in.
• Dealing with changes (like trying new foods, having a substitute teacher, having their toys moved or a change in routine).
• Dealing with loud noises, bright lights or crowds.

Kids might also move in an unusual way (like flapping their hands or rocking), or do the same thing over and over (like saying the same w...

Back to school!

Back to school can be exciting, but can also be mixed with so many different emotions! Maybe a little bit of sadness that summer is over, or anxiousness of what the school year may bring both academically and emotionally. Some kids adapt easily, while others might take longer, especially if moving to a new school.

One of my favourite ways as a teacher and parent to communicate with a child without them feeling pressured or in the spotlight, allowing us to see how the school year is going is through journaling. There are several ways this can be done, either through free writing or with the use of prompts, where we can guide their writing...