Taking Care of Myself

Synopsis

Taking Care of Myself: A Hygiene, Puberty and Personal Curriculum For Young People With Autism is a much needed resource for the autism community so that children with disabilities can learn about personal safety in a nurturing environment. I am thankful for the curriculum presented in Taking Care of Myself: A Hygiene, Puberty and Personal Curriculum For Young People With Autism, as it helps me raise two boys on the Autistic Spectrum and make sure I do not miss anything in the process that they need to know and be aware of before someone else tells them about these issues.'

- BellaOnline Reviews

'The social stories could save parents and teachers time having to write their own and reduce the stress load especially on parents in having to find the right words to address sensitive topics. Wrobel's stories are well written, using appropriate vocabulary and simple sentence structure. They are positive and affirmative; when used they will greatly reduce the anxieties experienced by young people when dealing with these sorts of issues. Both of us felt that the book would be useful for a very wide range of children and young people, not just those that fall within the Autistic Spectrum and would recommend its use in home, school and college contexts.'

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Using a unique combination of social scripts and easy-to-understand activities, Taking Care of Myself provides accessible information on health, hygiene and personal safety issues for people with autism spectrum conditions or other developmental disabilities.

Presented as seven distinct units, this new curriculum covers all aspects of day to day life paying particular attention to areas that may cause confusion or distress, including illness and visits to the doctors. The authors also offer advice on puberty, appropriate sexual behaviour and `stranger danger', making this a comprehensive manual for children and adolescents from the age of five upwards.

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Summary

Chapter 1: Define Your Needs

* Emphasizes the importance of identifying and prioritizing your physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
* Example: Recognizing the need for adequate sleep, healthy eating habits, meaningful relationships, and time for personal growth.

Chapter 2: Set Boundaries

* Encourages establishing clear boundaries to protect your time, energy, and well-being.
* Example: Learning to say "no" to commitments that conflict with your priorities and delegating tasks to avoid overloading yourself.

Chapter 3: Communicate Your Needs

* Stresses the value of expressing your needs and expectations to others.
* Example: Asking your partner for support with household chores or letting your friends know when you need time alone.

Chapter 4: Practice Self-Care

* Provides practical tips for nurturing your physical, emotional, and mental health.
* Example: Scheduling regular exercise, practicing relaxation techniques, and pursuing hobbies that bring you joy.

Chapter 5: Respect Your Body

* Emphasizes the importance of listening to your body's signals and responding in a supportive manner.
* Example: Taking rest breaks when feeling tired, eating nutritious meals when hungry, and seeking medical attention when necessary.

Chapter 6: Nourish Your Mind

* Encourages engaging in activities that stimulate your mind and foster intellectual growth.
* Example: Reading books, attending workshops, or learning a new skill that challenges you.

Chapter 7: Cultivate Meaningful Relationships

* Discusses the role of strong relationships in promoting well-being and providing support.
* Example: Building a network of close friends, family members, or mentors who care about your well-being and offer encouragement.

Chapter 8: Create a Positive Environment

* Emphasizes the importance of creating a physical and emotional environment that supports your well-being.
* Example: Decluttering your home, surrounding yourself with positive people, and engaging in activities that bring you peace and tranquility.

Chapter 9: Manage Stress

* Provides coping mechanisms and strategies for managing stress in a healthy and effective manner.
* Example: Practicing meditation, exercise, or deep breathing techniques to calm your nervous system and reduce anxiety.

Chapter 10: Seek Support When Needed

* Encourages seeking professional help or support from loved ones when facing challenges that you cannot handle on your own.
* Example: Consulting with a therapist for emotional issues or reaching out to a friend or family member for assistance during a difficult time.