I'm Me with ASD: My Day with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Michelle Spray, Monica Munn, Valeria Leonova
Paperback
(Independently published, Aug. 7, 2019)
I'm Me with ASD is a glimpse into Jimmy's Day with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Written with fun-loving rhyme, Michelle Spray gives a simple introduction to the challenges her autistic family experiences from morning routines, reminders, in-school behaviors, to staying focused. This book is dedicated to Autism families and those who struggle to understand. "Mornings can be tricky • Before OT exercises begin. • When we get to school on time • We celebrate the win!" • “As a school-based occupational therapist, one of the biggest challenges I come across is integrating my students on the spectrum into the general education classroom. ASD is such a foreign concept for students, teachers, staff and parents who have not had the pleasure of a personal experience with a child or adult with ASD. This can also ring true for students who have not been diagnosed as being on the spectrum, but demonstrate many of the traits/characteristics associated with being on the spectrum, such as sensory integration and sensory regulation difficulties. Michelle has done a wonderful job sharing the story of what a child or individual with ASD’s experience may look like as they move through and interact within the world. Having books like these available in schools, social clubs, and for families and friends to gain a deeper perspective and understanding is paramount and will empower the readers to shift the conversation from “I don’t understand” to “how can I understand more/better?” •Thank you for sharing your ability to see through another’s lens, and devoting so much of your time and energy to gifting words to those who need a voice and context to those who crave to understand.”–Amanda Carney, OTD, OTR/L, ATS • “This book is a little gem for our readers about ASD. Too often kids are considered to be behaving badly when in reality they are just trying to make it through the day, or just minute by minute. This book helps to remind people that not all disabilities are just on the outside.” –Sarah Haynes, Nationally Certified Peer Support Specialist • “As a mother with a child with ASD this book hits on a lot of the key issues that any child in a school setting has difficulties with. But is explained in such a way that any age can understand and have compassion for such children. Wonderful book!” –Page King, Autism Mom • “This book is a must read! It offers a simple, straightforward look at a day in the life of a child with Autism. For those who can relate, it normalizes their everyday experiences with processing and navigating through the world. At the same time, it allows those around them a better understanding of what they are going through and how to help them be successful.” –Karen Powers, Autism Mom