Christine McGuinness reveals 'brilliant' way she helped autistic daughter after she struggled to leave bedroom

Doting mum Christine McGuinness has opened up about how she helped her eldest daughter after she struggled to leave her bedroom. Model and TV star Christine shared a moving Instagram post with fans to tell how she became worried for nine-year-old Penelope, who 'enjoys her own space and company.'

Christine has previously opened up about her journey with Penelope and her twin Leo and their younger sibling Felicity, five, who all have autism, a neurodevelopmental condition that can cause repetitive and restrictive behaviour. In December she and Top Gear host husband Paddy left viewers in tears with their emotional documentary Our Family and Autism which aired on BBC One.

Christine, who revealed last year that she had also been diagnosed with autism at the age of 33, posted a sweet video showing her childen joyfully playing together as they held a 'Pokemon Picnic' with their collection of Pokemon toys in the garden. And their pet cat also joined in the fun.

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"So precious," wrote former The Real Housewives of Cheshire star Christine. "I’ve struggled to get Penelope out of her bedroom recently, she is the sweetest girl who really enjoys her own space and company.

"Allowing her that quiet time alone and making sure she doesn’t isolate herself is a fine line. With the summer holidays almost over, I’m worried she might need time to settle back into school routine."

She explained: "Using her love for @pokemon and with support from Leo and Felicity, Penelope joined us outside for a ‘Pokemon picnic’ and she loved it. I’m so grateful they have each other. And I get to love them."

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