Helping NT pre-school kids understand autism

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My daughter is 4 years old and we've been having playdates with my girlfriend and her daughters 5 and 1. They're going good for the most part. My Britlynn is really likes having a baby around, and she and the 5 year old both like to "collect treasures" and then admire them. The 5 year old is a sweetheart, but very curious as to why Britlynn is different, why she doesn't talk or want to play games and she just has alot of questions. Anyone have any advise on how to explain things to little ones (pre-k)? Thanks

I found this link at Amazon.ca

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/193256 ... 05QFSW0M9T

There are a few books out there for siblings of autistic children. Maybe some of the information might be helpful for the children of your friends.

I think the best approach is stressing, in age appropriate ways, that having autism makes your daughter DIFFERENT, but not less than (as Temple Grandin would say).

I think that the book I linked to above was meant for Kindergarten age - but a five year old is getting close to that age anyway.

It might also be a good book to have around, it could be shared with your child's preschool teacher and Kindergarten teacher when the time comes as well.