What is Autism?
Autism is a neurotype that influences how an individual experiences and interprets the world. It can affect how a person thinks, processes information, communicates, learns, and interacts with their environment. Autism is not a deficit—it is a difference.
Autistic children may demonstrate some or all of the following characteristics:
Advanced knowledge in specific interests
Gestalt language processing¹
Strong desire for independence
Preference for music or melody; acute sense of pitch
High attention to detail and noticing small changes
Early mastery of higher-level skills (alphabet knowledge, reading, math, etc.)
Strong preferences and desire for choice
Exceptional memory
Unique sensory profile, which may include:
Heightened awareness of sounds or smells
Preference for deep pressure or proprioceptive input
Vestibular sensory seeking (spinning, falling)
Attraction to visual sensory input (lights, movement)
Sensitivity or awareness of textures
Preference for repetition, sameness, or routine
Deep focus on areas of interest
Experiencing emotions intensely
The DSM-5 characterizes autism by differences in:
Language and social communication
Restricted or repetitive behaviors
Autism exists on a spectrum and may range from requiring very substantial support to requiring support in daily life.
Next Steps
See Strengths First
Autism is often discussed through a lens of challenges, but it is equally important to recognize strengths. Identifying and building on these strengths can help support areas of need and improve quality of life.
Understanding how an autistic child experiences the world allows caregivers and professionals to connect more meaningfully and communicate more effectively.
Build a Collaborative Team
A strong support team should share a strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming approach.
Speech therapists can support communication development
Occupational therapists can address fine motor skills and sensory needs
Physicians can support medical needs such as sleep or gastrointestinal challenges and should be knowledgeable about autism
Collaboration and parent involvement are essential to ensure carryover across environments.
Set Meaningful Goals
Goals should focus on improving your child’s quality of life—not simply completing a checklist. Ask why a goal is being targeted and who it benefits.
Connection, joy, and shared laughter are meaningful goals. Trust and emotional regulation should be prioritized before introducing new demands.
Support self-advocacy and choice, including teaching and respecting “no.”
If behaviors are harmful and need to be reduced, it’s essential to identify the underlying need and provide appropriate replacements. For example, if head banging meets a vestibular or proprioceptive need, alternatives such as deep pressure or movement should be offered.
References
¹ https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/23969415221091928
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/1745691620958010
