Perth mother Kylee Matson made her debut as an author on World Autism Awareness Day this week (April 2).
Ms Matson says she has become an author to “advocate for acceptance” and to inspire families raising children who are on the autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
“My son was non-verbal until age four,” she said. “When I first realised that Oakley was on the spectrum, I promised myself I’d do everything in my power to give him the chance to be his best.
“I’m a strong advocate for early intervention and also for teaching peer sensitivity. My son has achieved great success in his artistic talent, as well as gaining acceptance in his school community. At age 11, he was voted as Student Councillor, being selected from 17 candidates, where five were chosen. He got the most votes.”
Ms Matson has joined forces with social enterprise Amazing Smart Kids, which also advocates for acceptance of “different and unique behaviours” by educating understanding of behaviours such as ‘stimming’ (self-stimulatory behaviour, including hand-flapping) and repetitive behaviour.
The social enterprise is launching Ms Matson’s first book in a children’s book series, <itals>Repeat Pete, a Pirate with Repetitive Behaviour<itals>. It aims to show the “inner world” of what it feels like to be autistic. Ms Matson’s son drew the pirate character at the age of five.
Amazing Smart Kids has chosen World Autism Awareness Day for the first launch of this children’s series. Founder Suzie Atwell said: “The ASD community are very excited by Kylee’s book. There is very little in children’s literature that talks about stimming and repetitive behaviour. Kylee has done an exceptional job on depicting what it feels like to be affected by ASD.
“Based on Kylee’s great success in teaching the school community about her son and the evident acceptance that has been achieved, we believe that our aim of building a strong community that focuses on understanding unique differences and advocating acceptance starting at a young age is vital for the future that awaits the world.
“The number of families that are now affected by ASD and other neurological issues is on the increase. We need to be able to develop practical solutions to help improve the quality of life for all involved.”
Visit www.amazingsmartkids.com.au for further information.
