Positively Autistic - Jeanette's Autism Show

This is Jeanette's Autism Show - a fortnightly radio programme hosted by Autistic author, advocate, public speaker, Government official and owner of Whimsy Manor, Jeanette Purkis. It is a place for discussions around Autism advocacy and empowerment covering such topics as employment, education, relationships and sexuality, mental health, families, communication, pets (and especially cats) and positive living generally. Jeanette's website is www.jeanettepurkis.com

This week jeaette speaks with Brian O'Connor who is inolved with the Mens' Sheds in South East Queensland. The Mens' Shed in South Brisbane has been established on the Autism Hub and Reading Centre site in orer to create a safe, supportive environment for men to talk about parenting a child with autism, and being the partner in a parenting relationship for a child with autism. Men participate in activities such as making or restoring furniture. Much of the research aroung parenting and Autism is based on the epxereicnes of mothers, but dads, ganrdads and uncles also play a vital role in riasing children on the Autism specturm. Men can struggle with social and emotional support whcih is were the Men's Shed program can help.