Exploring Autism Through Authentic Voices: Better Resources for Understanding Neurodivergent Experiences

Recently, I had the pleasure of connecting with Emma, a new member of our Lego®-Based Therapy training and an incredibly insightful neurodivergent parent. Emma is a certified AutPlay Therapy provider who works for a UK charity supporting families of neurodivergent children with high cognitive abilities. She brings with her not just professional expertise but also deep, lived experience, having raised two neurodivergent children herself.

Emma shared a critical reflection in response to an animated video on autism that I had linked during our training. She noted that the National Autistic Society had since unlisted the footage due to criticism about it reinforcing stereotypes and lacking autistic representation in its creation.

This feedback is invaluable. As a trainer and advocate, I strive to provide content that affirms the voices of neurodivergent individuals and fosters genuine understanding and empathy. The video in question was, at the time, one of the few resources I had available that attempted to visualise the sensory and emotional world of an autistic person. However, we can—and must—do better.

Based on Emma's helpful comment and my ongoing research, I’ve compiled a selection of alternative videos and platforms that more accurately and respectfully reflect the lived experiences of people with autism. These resources are suitable for parents, professionals, and anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of autism through a neurodiversity-affirming lens.

🎥 Animated Videos You Can Trust

1. Maria – Autistic Masking (Animated Short Film)A powerful short that captures the experience of masking, based on the lived reality of an autistic girl.🔗 Watch on YouTube

2. INK – Autism Acceptance (Short Film)A creative short story illustrating the internal world of an autistic child in a beautifully empathic way.🔗 Watch on YouTube

3. Amazing Things Happen (by Alexander Amelines)A warm, accessible video for children and adults, designed to introduce autism in an affirming and inclusive way.🔗 Watch on YouTube

🎩 Honourable Mention

4. Loop (Pixar SparkShorts)An award-winning short about a non-speaking autistic girl, created with the support of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network.🎥 Available on Disney+🔗 Watch the trailer

📖 Other Great Platforms for Understanding Autism

5. The Curly Hair Project - Founded by autistic author Alis Rowe, this UK-based platform provides relatable and informative animations about autism.🔗 Watch on YouTube

These are just examples, and I'm sure there are more. If you're aware of any additional sources on this topic, please feel free to reach out or leave a comment below this article ☺️

Why This Matters

We all benefit when people are empowered to tell their own stories. By prioritising neurodivergent voices, we move away from outdated, deficit-based models and toward a more inclusive, strengths-based understanding. Whether you're supporting children in school, at home, or in therapeutic settings, having access to affirming resources makes a tangible difference.

A big thank you to Emma for starting this meaningful conversation — and welcome again to the Bea Inclusive community!

If you're a parent, therapist, or educator looking to expand your toolkit for understanding and celebrating neurodiversity, I invite you to explore these resources and share them with your network.

Be kind, be curious, and always be inclusive.

Until the next time

Beata Bednarska