Author Jade Chapman and the lessons she hopes her readers will learn from her book

By Jade Chapman

Storytelling has the power to teach us about life, about ourselves and about others.

With the increasing number of children being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, I wanted to create a book that would help raise awareness of childhood autism but most importantly promote acceptance for kids who are different.

‘Understanding Oscar’ was written from my own personal experience and I feel it gives the readers an opportunity to engage and connect with the characters, whether it be through Oscar’s older brother, Banjo, or his parents, to learn to develop empathy, compassion and understanding towards those with special needs.

There are numerous misconceptions around children who are on the autism spectrum.  For many, including Oscar, his disability is not visible so his behaviour at times can be viewed as being naughty, his lack of eye contact and communication can be seen as being rude and his repetitive behaviours and interests can be seen as strange and quirky.

No matter what the challenges and traits each child with special needs may carry, the things that affect them most is when a child doesn’t have the respect, understanding and supports that allow them to be comfortable in a non-autistic world.

Having a disability or being different should not define a child.

If I can teach the readers to learn or build on these simple tools of compassion, understanding and inclusion it will greatly benefit the lives of all children with special needs, and the world will be a much brighter and inclusive place.