Nursery World - Mum creates 'Elf on the shelf' campaign to highlight Christmas challenges for children with autism

A parent-blogger is using the popular Elf on the Shelf Christmas tradition to raise awareness of autism over the festive season.

Miriam Gwynne: 'Dec 9 #autismawarenesself day 9 and today Elf is finding the crowds, lights, Christmas music and decorations all too much. It can definitely be overwhelming for many' PHOTO Miriam Gwynne

Miriam Gwynne, a mother of 11-year-old twins, from Hamilton in Scotland, is running the #autismawarenesself online campaign throughout December to increase understanding and support for children and young people with autism, many of whom struggle with the demands of Christmas.

After the success of the campaign last year, she has reinstated it on Twitter (@MiriamGwynne) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/Faithmummy1/).

Ms Gwynne said the campaign had been picked up by schools and nurseries as well as parents and children. It aims to highlight a range of issues faced by people with autism at Christmas, including:

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