This is a book about a boy named nate who was diagnosed with autism. The doctor explained it to him and to his family.
Nate approaches other people and friendships differently. he may get too close to people and invade their bubble
He may to look at people when they talk and sometimes not respond
He has very specific interests and may become an expect in some topic he is interested in, like Hedgehogs
When he is upset, he has a very hard time calming down, and there are many things that can upset Nate, like bright lights, loud sounds, and the tag or texture of his clothes. Nate hates wearing pants, even in the cold. 
Nate has a hard time understanding how others play and being interested in what his friends are doing and for that reason, he has a hard time having as many friends and playing games as other children

What is autism?

Nate sitting in a doctor's office with a warm-smiling doctor and his parents looking on supportively

Nate was a boy with a curious mind. He loved hedgehogs, they were one of a kind. One day, his parents took him to a place, where a doctor had a warm smile on his face. He told Nate he had something called autism. His parents listened with love and optimism. Nate didn't quite get what it meant just yet, but he knew his family loved him, you can bet.

Nate's Big Day

Nate listening attentively to the doctor in a cozy, softly-lit room

The doctor explained it in a gentle way. He said autism makes Nate see the world in a unique display. He might not look at people when they talk, and sometimes he might prefer a quiet walk. Bright lights and loud sounds can make him upset, and certain clothes might make him fret. But Nate's love for hedgehogs is truly grand, and his family is there to lend a hand.

Understanding Autism

Nate holding a hedgehog toy and talking excitedly with a big smile

Nate could talk about hedgehogs all day long. He knew every fact, he'd sing every song. His friends thought it was cool, but didn't always understand, why Nate loved hedgehogs more than playing in the sand. Sometimes Nate would get too close, and his friends would say, 'Whoa!' But Nate was just excited, he wanted them to know. His parents taught him gently about personal space, and Nate learned to not put his toys in their face, and to give his friends some breathing space.

Nate's Special Interests

Nate looking upset in a brightly lit room, his parents dimming the lights and changing his sweater

When Nate got upset, it was hard to calm down. Bright lights, loud sounds, could make him frown. His clothes sometimes felt scratchy and tight, and he hated wearing pants, even in the cold. His parents found ways to help him feel better, like dimming the lights or changing his sweater. They gave him tools to help him cope, and Nate learned to manage, giving him hope.

When Nate Gets Upset

Nate and a friend sitting in a classroom, sharing stories with happy expressions

Nate had a hard time making friends at school. He didn't always know the games or the rules. But he found a friend who loved hedgehogs too, and they shared stories, learning something new. Nate learned to listen and take turns in play, and his friend helped him in a kind way. Together they laughed and had lots of fun, and Nate felt happy, like the shining sun.

Making Friends

Nate with his family around him, all smiling warmly at home

Nate's family was always there by his side. They loved him so much, their hearts open wide. They learned about autism to help Nate thrive, and they worked together, feeling alive. They celebrated Nate's strengths and his quirks, and they found ways to make things work. With their love and support, Nate felt strong, and he knew with his family, he belonged.

Nate's Family Support

Nate in a classroom, working with a teacher who is helping him with a kind smile

At school, Nate had a special plan. His teachers helped him understand. They gave him breaks when he needed to rest, and they knew how to help him do his best. Nate learned new things and made new friends, and he felt happy as the school day ends. He knew he was different, but that was okay, because everyone is special in their own way.

Nate's School Adventure

Nate standing confidently with his family and friends around, all smiling

Nate grew up with love and care. His family and friends were always there. He knew he had autism, and that was fine, because he was unique, one of a kind. He followed his dreams and did his best, and he knew he was loved, that was the test. With a heart full of hope and a mind full of cheer, Nate faced the future without any fear.