Map of Monotropic Experiences: FREE Open Source Training Resources
The Map of Monotropic Experiences:
Reframing Autism Through A Neurodiversity-Affirming Lens
Training for Professionals, Families and Community Groups to Support Autistic People
I am excited to announce that in collaboration with Stumpunks, we have a new free, open-source training resource!
At Autistic Realms and Stimpunks, we believe in telling our own stories and validating each other’s experiences. The Map of Monotropic Experiences is a collaborative project by Helen Edgar (Autistic Realms) and the Stimpunks Foundation (Ryan Boren, Norah Hobbs and Chelsea Adams), created by and for Autistic people.
I created the original map in 2024 as a reflection of my own monotropic experiences. We have developed this further and are offering a space for everyone to reflect on their authentic identity as Autistic/ADHD people and discover how embracing the theory of monotropism may help develop a stronger understanding of identity and support well-being.
Reframing Deficit Models of Autism & Valuing Autistic Lived Experience
Our training helps to reframe how we understand ourselves and Autistic people, not through the deficit-focused lens of traditional autism research, but through lived experience and Autistic voices, created by Autistic people for our community.
At the heart of our work is the importance of embracing authentic Autistic identity, not as something broken or needing correction, but as a valuable way of being. Building strong community connections and validating lived experiences are central to this journey.
You’ll Discover Ways To:
✅ Understand the theory of monotropism and the importance of flow
✅ Recognise how environments can create “stuck states”
✅ Explore the detrimental impact of neuronormative domination on Autistic well-being
✅ Create flow-supportive environments where ALL minds can thrive
✅ Understand intersectionality and the Double Empathy Problem for deeper inclusion
✅ Celebrate authentic Autistic identity and the strength of community storytelling and shared experiences
Perfect for: schools, healthcare settings, workplaces, and community networks.
A creative tool for reflection, connection, and meaningful change.
Timing and Preparation: The training content is approximately 4,000 words, designed to cover around 45 minutes of presentation time. Delivered live as a workshop with space for discussion and Q&A, it typically runs for 1-2 hours and can be expanded into a full-day session if preferred.
The Value of Community Connections
By exploring the Map of Monotropic Experiences, our training invites you:
- To recognise the systemic forces that create stuck states
- To better understand Autistic sensory, social, and emotional landscapes
- To foster environments that enable thriving, not just surviving
- To affirm and validate Autistic ways of being and experiencing the world
By embracing the neurodiversity paradigm and reconnecting to community, we can create spaces where everyone can thrive.
True validation of Autistic experiences happens through community connection.
When Autistic people come together to share stories, celebrate each other’s passions, and support each other, a deep sense of belonging can ripple out to other spaces and networks.
The Map of Monotropic Experiences is not just a tool for self-understanding; it is a community-building map.
We invite you to:
🌱 Share your experiences and landscapes
🌱 Acknowledge your hurdles
🌱 Celebrate your own flow and your collective flow with others
🌱 And honour the diverse ways we exist and connect
Get the Training
View Slides Online
Download the full training pack here.
The Map of Monotropic Experiences Training Pack consists of:
1 x PDF version with presenter notes and suggestions
1 x PDF version slides only
1 x PowerPoint
1x PDF script only
The Map of Monotropic Experiences Training Pack consists of:
1 x PDF version with presenter notes and suggestions
1 x PDF version slides only
1 x PowerPoint
1x PDF script only
A suggested donation for organisations and professionals is $100 (£75 GBP). This is also available as free open-source training for individuals and those with limited funds through Autistic Realms and Stimpunks.
Coming Soon!
A workbook will soon be released to support our open-source Map of Monotropic Experiences Training Pack.
Purchase Digital Downloads Of Our Maps & A Poster For Your Setting
Purchase a digital download of Autism & The Map of Neuronormative Domination
Purchase a digital download of the Map of Monotropic Experiences
Purchase A Professional Poster 17” x 17” hard copy of The Map of Monotropic Experiences
Want to know more about monotropism?
Autistic Realms
Stimpunks
Monotropism.org
Best Wishes,
Helen Edgar (Autistic Realms) & Stimpunks Team
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