How to Explain Autism to Kids
Here’s how you explain autism to kids using a free video series called Bluebee TeeVee, the Autism Information Station. The videos talk about autism in a friendly, age-appropriate yet clinically correct manner using pop culture and humor to keep kids engaged. These autism information videos are an easy and approachable way to talk to children about autism and help them see past differences, learn acceptance and understanding, and discover that we’re all pretty much the same at heart.
The show’s host, James Sullivan is also the script writer, filmmaker, and editor. Jonathan Murphy performs the character voices for the Bluebee Pal co-hosts. Both of these talented young men are on the autism spectrum.
Episode 1: What is Autism?
What is autism anyway? Autism is a condition that affects the way a person’s brain works. It is not a disease and there is no “cure” for autism because it’s just a different way of thinking and behaving.
In Episode 1 of Bluebee TeeVee, host James Sullivan and his Bluebee Pal, Leo, explain autism to children by having a chat about what autism is and what it means to be someone on the autism spectrum. “It’s a world of abilities…and possibilities,” says Leo…and we couldn’t agree more!
- Watch on YouTube
- Download the video
- Get the Episode Guide with resources and activities
- Download an Autism Fact Sheet for kids
Episode 2: What are People with Autism Like?
What are kids with autism like? In Episode 2 of Bluebee TeeVee, host James Sullivan tells his Bluebee Pal, Lily, “We’re just like everyone else in so many ways but there are some interesting differences.” Lily learns a whole new view and understanding of people with autism. She thinks “they’re awesome!” Yep, she’s got that right!
- Watch on YouTube
- Download the video
- Get the Episode Guide with resources and activities
Episode 3: How Do People with Autism Communicate?
There are many ways that kids with autism communicate. You see some people with autism can’t speak but they can still be heard and understood. In Episode 3 of Bluebee TeeVee, host James Sullivan talks to his Bluebee Pal, Riley, about some of the ways:
- Using picture boards
- Or apps on phones, tablets and computers
- Sign language
The fancy word for this type of talking is augmentative and alternative communication or AAC for short. “Far out!” says Riley, and she’s even more surprised when she finds out that she’s a communication tool too!
- Watch on YouTube
- Download the video
- Get the Episode Guide with resources and activities
Episode 4: How to Be a Friend
How can you be a good friend to a kid with autism? In Episode 4 of Bluebee TeeVee, host James Sullivan puts his Bluebee Pal, Hudson, to the test in “The Friendship Game!” Watch this webisode to discover Hudson’s answers and you’ll learn all about autism, friendship, and why it’s awesome to have an autistic friend!
- Watch on YouTube
- Download the video
- Get the Episode Guide with resources and activities
EPISODE 4 BONUS!! Discover the secrets to creating a successful buddy program at school. Download our “Friendship Kit,” a complete guide to how one mom created a lunch buddy program and lasting friendships for her autistic son. So successful, the program was featured in People Magazine. Mom and Quirks and Chaos blogger, Lisa Smith, breaks everything down for you including sample forms and permission slips.
Episode 5: Are Kids with Autism Bullied?
Nearly 70 percent of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) experience emotional trauma as a result of being bullied. That’s 3 times more likely than their typically developing peers. In Episode 5 of Bluebee TeeVee host James Sullivan and his Bluebee Pal co-host, Sammy, talk to kids about bullying and cyber-bulling. They learn how to take action and where to find help.
- Watch on YouTube
- Download the video
- Get the Episode Guide with resources and activities
Episode 6: What does Acceptance Mean?
It means that you are okay just the way you are. When someone accepts us we can be ourselves without fear of being made fun of or being rejected. It helps you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin. In this episode of Bluebee TeeVee, James and Leo talk about how accepting people on the autism spectrum is a choice you can make today that will have a positive impact.
- Watch on YouTube
- Download the video
- Get the Episode Guide with resources and activities
Parents, Educators and Autism Organizations
These educational webisodes are available for free! They can be viewed on the Bluebee TeeVee Autism Information Station YouTube channel or you may download the webisodes for offline use. Here are some important links:
More details about Bluebee TeeVee and the show makers, James Sullivan and Jonathan Murphy
- Spread the word about Bluebee TeeVee Autism Information Station – let’s empower kids on the autism spectrum and educate their peers! Click here for a page with tweets, images, and links you can share.
Bluebee TeeVee Autism Information Station is autism education presented by:
