Reviewing your toolkit

Now that you know more about autism and how it shapes the way you think, feel and do things (including your own awesome superpowers), it’s time to build your personal toolkit.  

This toolkit has things you can use to help yourself feel calmer, more confident and safe when things get tricky. 

Here are some of the tools you can put in your kit: 

1. Speaking up (assertiveness) 
This helps you tell other people what you need or want. It’s about finding your voice and feeling good about sharing it! 

2. Coping with big thoughts (looking at thoughts) 
Sometimes thoughts can feel really big and make you feel sad, worried, or low. This tool helps you understand those thoughts and feel better. 

3. Sensory tools (sensory regulation) 
When sounds, lights, or feelings get too much, these tools can help you feel calmer and more in control. We’ll talk about things like mindfulness (paying close attention to what’s around you to feel safe) and grounding (using your five senses to bring you back to the present). 

What sounds most helpful to you right now? Are there any tools you already use or want to try first? 

Everyone’s toolkit will be a little different, and that’s okay. Let’s find what works best for you.