Autism - Parents

Major Components of Autism Spectrum Disorder

• Communication difficulties

• Social interaction difficulties

• Restricted Behaviors or Interests

• Repetitive Behaviors or Interests

For a more comprehensive list of signs and symptoms click here.

How to support your child once they have been diagnosed with ASD

• Be flexible

• Engage in radical acceptance

• Be your child's best advocate

• Determine if you are eligible for state services

Three myths about autism

1. People with autism spectrum disorder don't have empathy or feel feelings.

   • People with autism may have trouble expressing their emotions, but that doesn't mean they don't have them.

2. People with autism spectrum disorder can't handle it when things change.

   • We all feel soothed by routine, structure, and organization. Change can cause anyone anxiety.

3. People with autism spectrum disorder don't want to be touched.

   • Autism can come with sensory processing issues but it's not a given. Like with everyone, ask consent. Ask what people want.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, March 28). Signs and symptoms of autism spectrum disorders. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved June 20, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/signs.html

The IRIS Center. (2014). Autism spectrum disorder: An overview for educators. Retrieved from https://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/module.asd1/

Morin, A. (n.d.). What is autism? Understood. Retrieved June 22, 2022, from https://www.understood.org/en/articles/what-is-autism?