My name is Tiff and I have been in my role of autism spectrum support at Allambi Care for the past eight years. I am also mum to twin boys, both diagnosed with autism. I have and have had the opportunity to work with many amazing young people and adults on the spectrum. One of the most motivating things for me is seeing the diversity and uniqueness of each person on the spectrum.
All too often the merging of ‘diversity’ and ‘inclusion’ can be a challenge within our communities. In my experience working in autism support, and as a parent, I find preconceived ideas of autism can create the biggest hurdles. A knowledge and respect for how people with autism interact with others and the world around them allows access to not only an ordinary life, but one they choose and aspire to.
Autism may not be what you expect, and this month we get the chance to celebrate this.
On April 2nd we celebrated World Autism Awareness Day. We want to take it further than one day and we have decided to spend a month showcasing the talents, achievements, passions and amazing things about our kids and adults on the autism spectrum, giving them the opportunity to talk about and show off things they love and are good at.
We would like to give you a sneak peak at some of the awesome work our NDIS participants will be brining you throughout April and in next month's newsletter.
We have watched Blake come on in leaps and bounds over recent years. Blake certainly brings a smile to everyone that works with him. The power of music is something that is often overlooked when we discuss meaningful relationships. For Blake and his team this provides a wonderful connection, something we are all about celebrating. (Yes that’s Blake’s music you’re listening to).
I am very fortunate to get the opportunity to play my small part in raising awareness of autism. But… if you are curious or want to learn more about autism, the best place to start is learning from people with autism themselves. There are plenty of podcasts, social media accounts, books and resources written and published by people with autism sharing their experiences, thoughts and insights.
