This book was based on a bedtime story written for my 4 year old Granddaughter Lucy who just turned five. As a very intelligent child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) she became terrified of public toilets and would cry and scream whenever the necessity to use one arose. Even to the point of wetting herself rather than use the bathroom at day camp.
I believe public bathrooms and auto-flush toilets can be universally frightening to young children and especially troubling to children with autism. I hope this book can help take away that fear. The subject is naturally gross (which is naturally attractive to children), but doesn't look away from reality. It is intentionally written (as all my stories) without consideration of reading level. Children are often smarter than we give them credit for and it offers an opportunity for them to ask questions and interact with their caregivers in order to learn.
Since kids with ASD are very susceptible to visual and auditory stimuli, I theorized the problem Lucy was having was something we could minimize by talking about it (cognitive behavioral therapy). And you know what happened? After hearing my bedtime story about Toby, she never had the problem again! She did however insist that a red eye (like Toby's) be affixed to her toilet at home, and having her Mom assist in making me a wonderful video documentary explaining how to flush a toilet and carefully put the lid back down. Ha
There are lots of little details to explore in the illustrations of this book and a bumble buzzard & flower pictographic counting system to teach basic math concepts. The book also allows the child to write their own story sequel with the help of their caregiver, and color their favorite characters in the last section of the book.
A portion of all proceeds from this book will be donated to charities supporting children and families affected by ASD. According to the CDC, the prevalence of autism spectrum disorder in the United States is 1 in 36 children, or 2.8%. This is alarming because the incidence in the entire world is only 1%.
Features:
- Beautifully drawn and humorous characters to challenge your child's imagination (as only an illustrator who is also a residential designer can do).
- Watercolor themed graphics that don't overwhelm sensitive children
- A simple but whimsical story that quietly teaches with fun.
- A heartwarming story of kindness, acceptance and inclusion about finding friends in surprising places.
- Extended features to engage your child's imagination.
- Sale of this book supports ASD charities that help children and their families
Bradley, J. Warren: - J. Warren Bradley is a Registered Respiratory Therapist currently employed as a Senior Application Engineer in Information Solutions at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. He lives in Mt Pleasant, SC
Warner, Gayla: - Gayla Warner is a Residential Designer and business owner. When she is not working, she spends her time exploring the mountains around her, reading, or being creative through art. She lives in Montrose, CO.
