After years of struggling to find adequate resources and support for her child with autism, Sunshine Coast mum Karen Poole has turned her frustration into a mission to help others.
Through her storybook, Choice of Two: Embracing Social Inclusivity through the Eyes of a Child Living with a Disability, Ms Poole is making a significant impact on the disability community, with her person-centred narrative approach resonating with families in Australia and beyond.
Her inspiration for writing Choice of Two stemmed from the long periods of isolation and disconnection she experienced after her son Noah was diagnosed with autism.
“When you have a child who struggles with sudden changes to routines, it has a profound impact on opportunities for social connection,” Ms Poole explained.
“I often felt as though we were stuck at home because leaving the house sometimes felt ‘too hard’. We didn’t know what sensory responses we might encounter, or the behavioural fallout that could follow.
“It became clear that what was missing was greater awareness and understanding from our friends and family. It wasn’t that we didn’t value connection, but sometimes it was simply too difficult to leave the house.
“We wished there were other options available.”
Choice of Two offers a window into life in a household not only with a child living with autism but also with any family who loves and cares for someone with a disability, whether physical, cognitive, or both.
Through her story, Ms Poole provides families with valuable ideas and tailored support on a range of topics – from understanding sensory sensitivities to addressing challenges faced by individuals with mobility impairments, such as a child who uses a wheelchair and cannot access a backyard for playtime. The book takes a unique approach by telling the story of a child’s experience with disability, while emphasising the importance of social inclusivity, understanding, and empathy.
Written with warmth and authenticity, Choice of Two has received glowing reviews from readers in Australia, the USA, and Canada. Families are praising the book for its insightful perspective and its ability to provide tools and inspiration for navigating life with a child living with a disability.
“I wrote the book to show that children with disabilities have so much to teach us about embracing diversity and building inclusive communities,” Ms Poole said.
“It’s about shifting the focus from social challenges and finding ways to turn these obstacles into opportunities, all while celebrating the unique contributions every child has to offer.”
Choice of Two has become a beacon of hope and empowerment for families affected by autism and other disabilities. With her deep personal connection to disability, Ms Poole’s book continues to make a lasting positive impact on those navigating the challenges of social inclusion and acceptance.
Choice of Two is available now through major online platforms.
For more information on Karen Poole’s work and to purchase Choice of Two, visit parentingourchampions.com.au
