Our Mission In The Way I Shine, we set out to reframe the narrative around autism, from one focused on what's "missing" to one that celebrates what's meaningful. The diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder, as outlined in the DSM-5, describes individuals in terms of "deficits" in communication, social interaction and flexibility. But what if we rewrote that story? What if we looked as these same traits through a lens of strength, individuality and neurodiversity? We took the diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder and reimagined it. Instead of "deficits in social communication", we see differences in expression. Instead of "deficits in social interaction", we see unique ways of connecting. Our goal is to offer children a hopeful, respectful and strengths-based view of autism. Autistic kids don't need fixing. They just need understanding and a world that sees the way they shine! About Megan Cole MA, BCBA, LBA Megan is the founder of Kind and Uplifting ABA & Mental Health and Co-Founder of Neuroplay Wellness. Megan brings a kind-hearted leadership style and deep devotion to the autism community. With a passion for mentorship and building teams that lead with empathy, Megan is known for her joyful connection with every child she meets. Her favorite place is on the floor, playing with autistic children at Kind and Uplifiting ABA, located in Urbandale, lowa. Danielle Stubbs Administrator Danielle is a lifelong educator and licensed teacher. She serves as an administrator at Kind and Uplifting ABA & Mental Health. Her love for children and unwavering belief in the potential of every learner is part of the foundation this book is built on. She also has a masters degree in athletic administration and loves coaching high school tennis. Dr. Beth Augspurger PhD, BCBA, LMHC Beth is the Director of Operations at Kind and Uplifiting ABA & Mental Health. With a doctorate in Applied Behavior Analysis and decades of experience in clinical and educational settings, Beth offers powerful insight into how systems, families and clinicians can support neurodiverse learners. She co-founded Neuroplay Wellness to bridge the gap between neuroscience and compassionate care. Rachel Fox Illustrator Rachel is a kind and passionate autism momma. She brings personal insight and lived experience into every illustration. Her drawings reflect her journey and her unwavering belief that autistic children are not defined by deficits, but rather by the way they shine.