{"product_id":"camille-the-chameleon-on-masking-how-to-stop-masking-and-discover-your-awesome-autistic-self","title":"Camille the Chameleon on Masking : How to stop masking and discover your awesome autistic self","description":"\u003cp\u003eAutistic children are often skilled at camouflaging -- hiding their difficulties, suppressing their instincts, and performing a version of themselves that feels more acceptable to the world around them. Masking is common, but it takes a toll. \u003cem\u003eCamille the Chameleon on Masking\u003c\/em\u003e is a beautifully illustrated picture book for autistic children aged 6 and over that explores what masking feels like, why so many autistic children do it, and -- most importantly -- what it can feel like to stop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHow it helps\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThrough the warm, relatable voice of Camille, children are invited to recognise their own experiences in a way that is affirming rather than clinical. The book doesn't tell children what to do -- it shows them they're not alone, that their feelings make sense, and that being their authentic self is something worth working towards. Alongside Camille's story, readers meet other autistic children who share their own experiences of masking, helping to build a sense of community and shared understanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe text has been specifically noted as dyslexia friendly in its layout, making it accessible to a wider range of readers. The illustrations are vibrant and full of warmth, and the narrative tone throughout is gentle, honest, and empowering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy it works in schools and classrooms\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSupports understanding of masking in SEN provision:\u003c\/strong\u003e Masking is increasingly recognised as a significant factor in autistic children's mental health and wellbeing. This book gives schools a practical, child-accessible way to open that conversation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWritten by a consultant child psychiatrist:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dr Glòria Durà-Vilà is Medical Lead for ASD at Surrey and Borders NHS Trust and an honorary lecturer at UCL, giving the content genuine clinical credibility that SENCOs and trust buyers can rely on.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSuitable for use in EHCP reviews and intervention planning:\u003c\/strong\u003e The book's focus on self-awareness and authentic self-expression maps naturally onto social and emotional learning goals within EHCP frameworks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAccessible for a range of year groups:\u003c\/strong\u003e Recommended for ages 6 to 12, making it useful across KS1 and KS2 with appropriate support.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDyslexia-friendly text and layout:\u003c\/strong\u003e Noted on the back cover, this means the book can be used confidently with children who have co-occurring learning differences alongside their autism diagnosis.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWho else it suits\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eParents of autistic children will find this book a helpful way to open conversations at home about masking, particularly for children who may not have the words to describe what they're experiencing. It can also be a reassuring read for young people who have recently received an autism diagnosis and are starting to make sense of their own behaviour and feelings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you'd like to discuss whether this title is right for your school or setting, our team is happy to help.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Jessica Kingsley Publishers","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57245229777278,"sku":"BK2557","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0653\/6560\/6649\/files\/9781805011033.jpg?v=1776155025","url":"https:\/\/www.thedyslexiashop.co.uk\/products\/camille-the-chameleon-on-masking-how-to-stop-masking-and-discover-your-awesome-autistic-self","provider":"The Dyslexia Shop","version":"1.0","type":"link"}