Free Autism Storm Guide
Supporting Autistic Children Through a Storm
For the past 10 days, my family and I have been without power, navigating the realities of daily life in the dark, in the cold, and without the basic comforts that so many of us take for granted. While this has been an incredibly challenging time, it has also re-affirmed something I have always known: Autistic families need support during storms, both literal and figurative.
That’s why, despite our own struggles, I made the decision to create a free Autism Storm Advice Guide, a resource designed specifically to help families prepare for and manage the challenges of storms, power outages, and extreme weather conditions. As an Autism & Visual Supports Specialist, Autistic advocate, and parent, I know firsthand how overwhelming sudden change and uncertainty can be for Autistic individuals and their families. My goal is to ensure no family feels unprepared, unheard, or unsupported during these difficult times.
Why I Created the Free Autism Storm Advice Guide
The Reality of Storms for Autistic Individuals
During this power outage, I have been reminded of just how disruptive and distressing sudden changes can be, particularly for Autistic individuals who rely on routine, predictability, and sensory stability. The loud winds, unexpected noises, and absence of electricity have been a sensory overload, even for me as an Autistic adult. I knew that if this was difficult for me, then so many Autistic children and adults would be struggling, too..
Turning Personal Challenges into Advocacy
Even with no power, limited resources, and the challenges of daily life in survival mode, I was determined to create something that would make a difference. The Autism Storm Advice Guide is my way of turning adversity into action, ensuring that families have practical, neuroaffirmative guidance to help them navigate storms and their aftermath with confidence.
What’s Inside the Autism Storm Advice Guide?
This free, downloadable guide is designed with the unique needs of Autistic individuals in mind. It provides:
Neurodivergent-Friendly Storm Preparation – How to minimise distress and prepare in a way that supports Neurodivergent needs.
Visual Supports & Communication Strategies – Helping Autistic individuals understand what’s happening and what to expect.
Emergency Planning Tips – Steps to take before, during, and after a storm to ensure safety and security.
Managing Anxiety & Regulation Tools – Practical strategies for emotional and sensory regulation.
Practical Advice for Power Outages – How to cope when routines are disrupted, and essential resources are unavailable.
Choosing to Help Despite the Challenges
It would have been easy to focus solely on my own situation, to worry about my own family’s needs and put everything else on hold. But I believe in community, in advocacy, and in action. Even when facing my own struggles, I knew there were families out there feeling lost, anxious, and overwhelmed. That’s why I pushed forward, creating this guide to ensure that every Autistic individual and their family has access to the resources they need to feel safe and supported.
Join the Storm Watch West Community
In addition to the Autism Storm Advice Guide, I have also co-founded the Storm Watch West – Community Updates Facebook Group alongside my colleague Debbie Conroy. This group is designed to provide real-time storm updates, practical support, and a sense of community for individuals navigating extreme weather events.
By joining, you will have access to:
Live Weather Alerts & Safety Updates
Information on Storm Preparedness
Community Support & Shared Experiences
Resources Tailored for Families & Neurodivergent Individuals living in the West of Ireland
Join Storm Watch West – Community Updates
Share & Support Autistic Families
If you know a family who could benefit from this free Autism Storm Advice Guide, please share this post with them. Together, we can ensure that no Autistic individual or their family is left without the support they need.
