7 Things Children With Autism Wish You Knew

April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time to focus on spreading accurate information to educate others about autism while promoting acceptance and inclusion. Understanding autism is more than just reading a list of facts, though. A lot can be learned by spending time with individuals with autism, where every day moments paint a clearer picture than words on a page. Even for parents and caregivers living with children of autism, it can take time to recognize what the child needs. When communication methods don’t align, it can cause frustration and concern, but many children with autism are communicating far more than what it may initially seem - just not in the way you may be used to. If your child could put their experience into words, it might sound like something like this:

“I’m Overwhelmed, NOT Ignoring You”

When there is a lot of sensory input happening at once - sounds, lights, movement, multiple voices - it can quickly become overwhelming to someone with autism. If you’re trying to engage in conversation and aren’t getting an immediate response, patience is key. They aren’t choosing to ignore you, their brain just may need more time processing due to the sensory overstimulation. 

“I Just Need A Little More Time Sometimes”

Everyone processes information differently, and sometimes your child with autism may be listening and processing internally before outwardly engaging. This may be answering a question, learning something new, or switching to a new activity. Transitions can be difficult, and feeling rushed can make everything feel more difficult. Patience is important. 

“My Actions Aren’t Always In My Control”

Many of us have been witness to a childhood meltdown that feels much larger than what we might expect based on the situation. Sometimes what seems like a small moment to us can be huge to a child with autism. Once they reach a state of overwhelm, their body may react automatically. It’s not an attention-seeking behavior, it’s a nervous system response that takes place when they don’t have the tools yet to cope with what is bothering them. This is a skill that is built over time, but in the meantime, try to remember that a strong reaction may be coming from a place of dysregulation, not ill intent. 

“I’m Communicating - Just Not With Words”

Verbal communication is not the only way to communicate feelings, needs, or opinions. Some children with autism communicate in other ways, through gestures, facial expressions, visual aids, or behavior. When you learn to recognize the mode of communication your child prefers, it’s easier to understand what they’re trying to say. This leads to much more confidence and less frustration - for both child and caregiver.

“I Feel Safe With You”

When your child seems to have their hardest moments around you, that can feel frustrating. But you should take it as a compliment! No, really! That means that they trust you and feel safe to let out all of their big, overwhelming feelings. 

“I’m Trying, Even If You Can’t Tell”

Change doesn’t happen overnight. Building new skills can take time, often taking place in small steps that eventually lead to bigger breakthroughs. What may seem simple to us is not so easy for a child with autism. Even if the progress isn’t obvious right away, that doesn’t mean they aren’t working on it in their own way. Give them time and encouragement to get there without added pressure. 

“I Don’t Want To Be Changed - I Want To Be Understood”

Your child does not need to be anyone else. They are wonderful and unique just as they are - and they deserve to know that. Instead of change, the focus should be on finding the right support to understand their very specific strengths and challenges. With support and guidance, they can build skills that help them navigate the world on their own terms. Feeling understood and being given tools that work for them, not against, makes everything feel a bit easier. 

Understanding Can Change Everything

All parents have a learning curve as they grow with their child. This is even more so the case when a child has autism. But when you strip away prior expectations and start to understand what’s happening inside the mind of your child, it can shift how every day life feels - for the better. Once the pieces come together with the right support in place, communication will improve, behavior will make more sense, and connection will blossom. 

How Bloom Behavioral Healthcare Can Help

One evidence-backed way to work through understanding your child and helping them build skills and confidence is through Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ABA Therapy uses personalized techniques to build skills, improve communication, strengthen understanding, and empower children with autism. At Bloom Behavioral Healthcare, we believe each child is unique with different needs. We work with the child and their families to determine their strengths and challenges, making individualized goals to work toward. We help your child build skills to help regulate their emotions, recognize triggers, foster independence, and move forward with more confidence. 

If you’d like to learn more about how ABA therapy can support your child and family, contact Bloom Behavioral Healthcare today. We’re here to help you understand, build, and grow - together.