NEW TO AUTISM OR POSSIBLE AUTISM DIAGNOSIS?
OMeS SPEECHIE POS
First
Unlearn
(almost)
EVERYTHING
you know about Autism and start FRESH!
Autism is MORE than stereotypes!
Autistic people can:
Speak, be friendly, make eye contact, play creatively, be intelligent, enjoy hugs, go to college, tolerate different sensory sensations, respond to their name, get married, have friends, have jobs and careers, and more!
Autism is a Pattern of Differences:
Language:
: Loe Take and Talking, may
struggle saying wants/needs
• Delay or decreased use of gestures, pointing, body language
• Echolalia & scripting after age 2.5
• Uses words or phrases repeatedly/often
• High pitch, melodic, sing-song voice
• Uses another's hand/body as a tool to get help/gain access
Interests & Routines:
• Prefers sameness and routine, may struggle with changes and become anxious and dysregulated
• Has strong, focused interests, may have early interest in letters/ numbers/ reading
• Focuses on details and likes things to be "just right" (labeled OCD)
• Repeats play activities or scenes (dumping/crashing, creative play)
: Creies wakon router/patterns
Social:
• Eye contact: intense, avoidant, or inconsistent
• Absent or inconsistent response to name
• May be "overly" friendly/ lack stranger danger
• May prefer to play alone or parallel play longer than others
• May be better at responding to others than initiating social contact
• Differences in joint attention
• May need to direct/control play
Sensory Processing:
• Selective (picky) eating habits
• Covers ears to loud sounds/ puts sounds up to ears, listens to sounds/songs on repeat
• Watches items up close to study spinning or how they work, may look at eye level or side of eyes
• Enjoys tight hugs, avoids hugs
• Seeks movement: jumping, pacing, rocking back and forth, crashing
• Sensitivity to grooming, washing,
These are common examples & a non exhaustive list
Autistic people can have many strengths, which often include:
Hyperlexia:
Reading letters & words at an early age
Exceling in music, art, science, math, computer
Hyper focusing on areas of interests
Excellent memory skills
Having an extensive knowledge in certain topics
Knowing numbers, shapes, & colors early
Motivated to teach self difficult skills.
Remember that your feelings are valid.
However you feel
Keep in mind that some feelings should not be shared publicly where your child may see it one day. AND know that it's common for feelings to change over time, especially when you learn more about Autism and see your child progress with support.
Consider Neurodiversity affirming support:
Neuro-affirming support prioritizes the child's strengths and individuality, promotes self-advocacy, and ultimately allows and encourages children to be their authentic self.
Be ready to advocate for your child while also teaching your child to advocate for themselves.
Unfortunately, most people have a lot to learn when it comes to accepting Autistic and disabled people. While this should not fall solely on the shoulders of disabled people and/or their parents, we need to recognize that this does happen, and parents need to be ready.
Accept that you may make mistakes.
Everyone makes mistakes. I have made MANY. Keep in mind that when you know better, you can do better.
Growth is the goal!