Autism is a developmental disorder that varies widely in severity and in its presentation. Understanding autism is the first step toward providing the best support for your child or those in your community that may be experiencing autism in some way.
Autism may be characterised by delays and challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviours as well as differences in learning, moving, or paying attention.
This essential guide will help you to identify early signs and guide you in seeking appropriate intervention. Early diagnosis and tailored support can significantly impact a child’s development, leading to positive outcomes.
Autism Through the Lens of a Child
How to Explain and Understand Autism for Kids
Talking with children about autism requires sensitivity and clarity. When explaining autism to a child, we recommend being prepared with key points that are simple to understand and use positive language. Emphasising that everyone has different strengths and challenges, and some people’s brains may work differently to others can be a helpful way for children to understand the broader concept of Autism.
Understanding autism for kids means helping them recognise and appreciate these differences. For a child with autism, this conversation can be empowering, helping them understand their unique perspective. For their peers, it fosters empathy and inclusion.
Building Empathy and Connection
How to Understand and Support Someone with Autism
To understand the lived experiences of someone with autism or someone who is autistic, we can step into their shoes to try and view the world from their perspective.
At Aspire, we recognise the importance of individual preferences. We respect and support the choice of language used by each individual, whether they prefer to be described as a ‘person with autism’ or as an ‘autistic person’. This approach honours their personal identity and experiences, emphasising the value of seeing each person as unique.
People with autism may experience sensory sensitivities, communication barriers, and social challenges. These experiences may make it difficult for them to navigate a neurotypical world without the right tools and aids to support their differences.
The key to best supporting someone with Autism varies from person to person as no two experiences are the same. However, the best place to start is with patience, a willingness to learn, and commitment to understanding their needs and adapting as needed. Encouraging their interests and celebrating their strengths will always provide a safe and positive environment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Understanding Autism
What are the basic things I should know about understanding autism?
Understanding autism involves knowing it’s a spectrum, meaning it affects individuals differently. Early signs can include delayed speech and milestones in babies and young children, limited eye contact, and repetitive behaviours. Understanding the spectrum nature of autism helps in appreciating each individual’s unique abilities and challenges.
How can I make daily life easier for my child with autism?
Accessing support and intervention early, is the best way to support your child and their daily lives. By aiding their development and being a partner in their education, you’re giving your child the tools they need to adapt in the real world and lead a life with independence.
Being mindful of sensory sensitivities and creating a safe, sensory-friendly space is another way you can support your child’s daily life.
What are some effective communication strategies for understanding someone with autism?
Each person with Autism has varying needs when it comes to communication. Some may need little to no help, while others may benefit from clear, straightforward language, and others who may be non-verbal will benefit from visual support.
Regardless of the level of communication, being patient and giving the person you are speaking with time to process and respond will create a supported environment.
How can I educate my family and friends about understanding and supporting autism?
Share resources and information about autism with your family and friends can help them educate themselves. Your support workers and therapy team can point you in the right direction of resources that are more specific to your child’s experiences.
Inviting your loved ones to participate in supportive activities and being open about your child’s needs and behaviours can create a supportive environment for all parties. Encouraging questions and being patient as they learn to interact and support your child will help the process.
Are there specific approaches or therapies recommended for helping children with autism develop essential skills?
Early intervention through initiatives like our First Steps and early intervention programs are the best place to start. Our expert team will help you and your child develop your personalised education plan and support you in every step of implementing this in your everyday life.
Understanding autism, for both kids and adults, is a journey of continuous learning and adaptation. Aspire Early Intervention is dedicated to supporting you through this journey. Our programs, informed by the latest research, are tailored to meet the unique needs of your child and family.
Remember, you’re not alone on this path. Together, we can nurture the potential of every child with autism regardless of their diagnosis or support needs.
