Description
A free training resource from Helen Edgar (Autistic Realms) and Stimpunks Foundation, co-created with Ryan Boren, Norah Hobbs and Chelsea Adams.
How do we create a world where Autistic people don’t just survive but thrive? It starts by listening to Autistic voices, validating lived experience and sharing our stories. The Map of Monotropic Experiences training offers a gentle but radical reframe: autism is not a deficit to fix, it is a different and deeply valuable way of being.
Built on the theory of monotropism (Murray et al., 2005), the training explains how Autistic and ADHD minds focus deeply, why flow states matter so much for wellbeing, and how environments can create stuck states that lead to exhaustion and burnout. Metaphors such as the Burnout Whirlpools and the Marshes of Masking name real, systemic barriers, and the Map also points to paths of pride, joy and belonging.
Inside the pack you will find:
- A PDF of the slides with presenter notes and suggestions
- A PDF of the slides only
- A PowerPoint version you can edit
- A PDF of the full script
You will explore: monotropism and authentic Autistic identity, how neuronormative domination shapes barriers, the power of community and shared experience, and ways to create environments where all minds can thrive.
It is suitable for educators, professionals, families and community groups. Please feel free to use, share and adapt it with your own communities.
Free for everyone. If your organisation is able to, you are warmly invited to choose a donation in the price box above (we suggest £75, about $100). Donations help keep this training free for individuals and anyone with limited funds.
Read more about the Map: Map of Monotropic Experiences
Explore the Map’s own home at monotropicmap.org.
Murray, D., Lesser, M., & Lawson, W. (2005). Attention, monotropism and the diagnostic criteria for autism. Autism, 9(2), 139–156. https://doi.org/10.1177/1362361305051398
Instant download after checkout. Made in Canva unless stated. Licence: CC BY-NC-ND 4.0: please credit Helen Edgar (Autistic Realms), share it unadapted and for non-commercial use only. Full terms are in my Terms and Conditions of Use.
