You Don’t Always Know What You’re Seeing: Understanding the Hidden Side of Autism
Have you ever seen a child having a meltdown in the supermarket or refusing to do something that seems simple — and found yourself wondering why the parent isn’t doing more? It’s a natural reaction. But what if there’s more going on than meets the eye?
Not every disability is visible. Autism, in particular, can show up in many different ways — and often, the signs aren’t obvious to an outsider. A child who appears “too old” to be crying or throwing a tantrum might be completely overwhelmed by noise, light, or change. What looks like defiance may actually be fear or confusion.
Parents of autistic children are often doing everything they can. They are navigating a world that doesn’t always make room for difference, and their child is doing the same — without the understanding they so badly need from those around them.
The next time you see a child behaving in a way that puzzles you, pause for a moment. Assume there’s something going on that you don’t know about. A little compassion can go a long way — and it’s something we can teach our children, too.
In fact, one of the most valuable lessons we can pass on is that not everyone experiences the world in the same way — and that’s not only okay, it’s something to understand and respect. The following books offer gentle, engaging ways to explore this idea with children, opening up conversations about autism, empathy, and the beauty of seeing the world through different eyes.
For Ages 3-5
Through the Eyes of Us by Jon Roberts
This beautifully illustrated picture book introduces young readers to Kya and Martha, two autistic girls who experience the world in their own unique ways. With gentle storytelling and warm, inclusive artwork, Through the Eyes of Us offers a wonderful opportunity to talk about neurodiversity, empathy, and acceptance with young children. A quiet, meaningful read that celebrates different ways of being.
Pablo and the Noisy Party by Andrew Brenner and Sumita Majumdar
Pablo is a little boy with autism who sees the world in vibrant, creative ways. In this story, he’s invited to a party — but the loud music, bright lights, and noisy chatter feel overwhelming. With the help of his animal friends, Pablo finds a way to understand and manage his sensory overload. Written by autistic authors and based on the popular TV series, this story is ideal for helping children understand sensory sensitivities and respect personal boundaries.
For Ages 9+
Can You See Me? by Libby Scott and Rebecca Westcott
Tally is starting Year 7, and while she may look like everyone else, inside she often feels different — because Tally is autistic. Co-written by 11-year-old Libby Scott, who is autistic herself, this book offers an honest, moving glimpse into the daily challenges and small victories of a girl learning to accept herself in a world that often misunderstands her. It’s a powerful story of self-discovery, friendship, and resilience — perfect for starting deeper conversations with older children.
A Kind of Spark by Elle Mc Nicoll
A Kind of Spark follows Addie, an 11-year-old autistic girl who lives in a small Scottish town. When she learns about a group of women who were tried and executed as witches in her village centuries ago, she becomes determined to get the town to recognise what happened to them — and to give them a proper memorial.
Addie sees a powerful parallel between the way the so-called witches were treated and how people like her — who are different — are often misunderstood, judged, or excluded. Her campaign for justice becomes a deeply personal journey, not just about history, but about being heard and accepted in the present.
Addie’s voice is warm, honest, and funny. Through her eyes, the story explores themes of autism, sibling relationships, bullying, misunderstanding, and the importance of speaking up — even when it’s hard.
Let’s raise children who respond to difference not with judgement — but with kindness!