My Story
An Autisitic Teacher in a Neurotypical World
Odd, awkward, difficult. All the words which were used to describe me as a child. I forced myself to fit in, but little did I know the cost it would have on my mental health.
It wasn’t until my second child began key stage two that we saw the difference between her and her peers. Within a year, she was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Having read so much about the condition, I could see so many traits in me. All those years of trying to fit in at great emotional cost, now I knew I was autistic.
I now have my own diagnosis, and so begins a new chapter as an advocate for autistic women and girls in the arts. It begins with the publication of my new toolkit for music services in the UK and beyond, designed to equip them to support their autistic teachers effectively.
My blog will give you insight into what it is like to be autistic, how you can support your autistic students and provide inspiration to other autistic teachers.
Thank you for journeying with me
Joanna