Understanding holistic and unique childhoods: knowledge generation in the early years with autistic children, families and practitioners

The knowledge of children with special educational needs and disabilities, and their families, is essential for informing educational transition planning and decision-making. However, often their views are marginalised through formalised processes and assessments which underestimate children’s capabilities and prioritise professional knowledge. We draw upon a project in an early years setting that involved five young autistic children, their families, and practitioners in the creation of Digital Stories as the children prepared for the transition to school. Parents and practitioners contributed exemplary (practical) knowledge and children contributed embodied knowledge about the things that mattered to them. We analysed the Stories to find out what we learned about the children through taking these different perspectives. Children’s embodied knowledge revealed their voices, interests and capabilities, with a focus on the spaces where they liked to be and who they chose to spend time with (including themselves). Parents and practitioners shared knowledge about the objects and interests of the child, the choices they make, and where support is needed. Taken together, the Stories provide a holistic view of the child that moves beyond difficulties and challenges. The Stories could be an important tool for professionals and families for supporting children’s transitions.