Supporting Autistic Girls: 'Mind Blowing' Statistic Impacting 92% Of Autistic Girls

In this first of a two-part episode, Ben is joined by Cathy
Wassell - CEO of Autistic Girls Network, founder of The Haven
online school, and successful author.


Neurodivergent herself and mum to two autistic children, Cathy is
at the front line supporting autistic girls, women, and families,
while campaigning for earlier diagnosis and a more up-to-date
education system.


With both lived experience and a Masters in Autism, Cathy brings
honesty and expertise to a conversation that busts myths,
challenges stigma, and shines a light on what’s really going on
for autistic girls and non-binary young people today.


00:00 Introduction


1:17 On the Frontline: Supporting Girls with Autism


7:30 Autism: How It Presents in Boys VS Girls


10:00 Why Situational Mutism VS Selective Mutism?


13:03 Masking & Sensory Differences: The Danger of Gender
Bias in Autism


19:46 Neurodivergent Children: Navigating the Secondary School
Transition


23:07 ND Passionate Interests: Explained


26:33 Why Are Autistic Girls Diagnosed Later than Boys?


32:30 Parent Groups for ND Children


35:00 Autistic Girls and Navigating Puberty


38:57 If Cathy Had a Magic Wand: Her Vision for ND Change


43:28 Spotting Autism in Girls: Cathy’s Checklist


45:24 Coming Up in Part Two





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Host: Ben Branson


Production Manager: Phoebe De Leiburné


Video Editor: James Scriven


Social Media Manager: Charlie Young


Music: Jackson Greenberg


The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by ADHD & autistic
entrepreneur Ben Branson.


Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees
neurodivergence.


No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.


1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That’s 1.6 billion of us - yet
too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without
support.


To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep
showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing
stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and
research that can’t be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people
turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about
brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow
louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.


Join us at hidden20.org/donate.


Become a monthly donor.


Be part of our community where great minds think differently.





Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348


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Ben Branson @seedlip_ben


Cathy Wassell @autisticgirlsnetwork


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