TikToks or Free Autism course? It can often be challenging to explain autism to family and friends or even help your workplace be more “Autism Aware.” What we have seen in recent times is many turning to social media platforms like TikTok or Instagram for their Autism information. While entertaining and a great way to share personal experiences, it can be difficult to translate that into practical shareable information for the workplace or even in the school environment.
Honestly though, I have to admit, I have forwarded some great TikToks to friends and family around the topic in the past.
@kidsonthespectrum IFYKYK. We Know! #thisisbullshit #fyp #foryoupage #foryou #autism #spectrum #parentsbelike #specialneedsmom #specialneedsmum #mumsoftiktok #disabilitytiktok #IFYKYK #asd #autismmums #autismmoms ♬ original sound – iamBeccaAnhalt
The statistics around Autism are not great.
Autism is a hidden disability, and while it may be evident in some individuals that they are autistic, it may not be so apparent in others. As a result we have to change perceptions of Autism urgently. Because, there are some concerning statistics around Autism. Some of them came to light at the recently reported senate inquiry findings last months.
- Autistic people have a life expectancy 20–36 years shorter than the general population, with over two times the mortality rate;
- 75 percent of autistic people do not complete education beyond year 12
- The unemployment rate for autistic people is almost eight times that of people without disabilities.
- 50–70 percent of autistic people experience co-existing mental health conditions.
- 39 percent feel unable to leave the house due to concerns about negative behaviours.
- 51 percent of autistic people and their families feel socially isolated.
- 72.2 percent of autistic students attended a mainstream school.
- Many autistic people need support to live independently. The support required can range from assistance with personal care, such as showering, eating, and dressing, to home management, budgeting, and paying bills.
- Autistic people report difficulties accessing legal advice and representation, which results in an overrepresentation of autistic people in the justice system.
“What is Autism” One of the new free Autism courses
Amaze autism has addressed this and has just released a free online course, What is Autism? This free online course is suitable for everyone who potentially interacts or engages with Autistic people and communities. The course provides an introduction and overview of autism and how to be an autism-positive person.
Test run
We gave the Amaze Autism course a test run and found it relatively easy to navigate. The modules are short and easy to follow. Some modules are short videos, while some modules are multiple-choice. The whole course should take no more than an hour to complete.
The free online course aims to change Autism perceptions and give the wider community more understanding. After completing this short course, you will be able to:
- Understand what autism is, and the diversity of the experience of autism
- Understand the social model of disability and learn the importance of strengths-based language
- Understand what it means to experience the world as an Autistic person and appreciate the diversity and uniqueness of the Autistic community
- Identify practical ways to be an autism positive person
Let us know your thoughts after completing it. Also got any TikToks you want to share with us?
For more Autism and spectrum supports head to our free directory now.