“Leo and the Charm of Sensiland: Adventures of Understanding and Being Understood” is a story that takes us to the heart of a unique village, where each person feels and experiences the world in a special way. In this adventure, we meet Leo, a child with a particular sensitivity to loud sounds, bright lights, and rough textures, making certain situations overwhelming for him. Throughout the story, Leo faces the challenge of participating in his school’s science fair, an event that causes him concern due to his sensitivities. However, with the help of his teacher, Mrs. Clarity, and the support of his classmates, Leo learns to express his needs and find solutions to feel more comfortable, such as using headphones and having access to a quiet area.

This story is a powerful tool for autistic children and youth, as it helps them work on their reading comprehension by following Leo’s adventures, while at the same time learning about social skills and the importance of acceptance and mutual support. By identifying with Leo and his experience, they can find strategies to deal with situations that they find challenging, recognizing that talking about what they need and how they feel is essential to being understood by others.

Moreover, by engaging in the questions and activities proposed at the end of the story, such as completing conversations and participating in role-playing games, children and youth have the opportunity to practice and reinforce these essential life skills, in a safe and structured environment. These activities are designed to promote empathy, understanding of each other’s differences, and adaptability, ensuring that every child, no matter how they experience the world, feels valued and understood.