So, how can you explain to your child what autism is?
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Kelly Ernsperger, a social worker and owner of Autism Counseling & Behavior Consultation explains it like this: “Autism affects how the brain works and can make it difficult for some people to talk, understand others, make friends or calm themselves down when they feel worried or stressed.” This ‘simple language’ talk will show your child that autism affects how they react to situations, people, surprises etc.
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Children with autism may be hyper-focused on certain topics or interests. They may have an enjoyment to constantly speak about the same topic, be it airplanes, books etc.
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Children with autism may be nonverbal, but that does not reflect on their mental capabilities. They may not know how to react, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have feelings or inclinations.
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Children with autism may repeat specific motions over and over. That doesn’t mean that we should stare if we see them doing something repeatedly.
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Children with autism may have a hard time accepting changes, whether big or small. This includes a change in their diet, routine, or environment.
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A child with autism may not look at people but that doesn’t mean they don’t like them. When talking to a friend with autism, you may need to wait a bit for them to answer.
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A child with autism is no less of an individual then a child without autism. Every child should know to notify an adult if they see a friend with autism being mocked, bullied or ignored.
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Take your child to local autism events. This will allow them to interact with children with autism, and will teach them to accept them.
Why is blue associated with autism?
Autism Speaks, an organization dedicated to promoting solutions for people with autism, started the trend of connecting blue with autism. Blue is a calm color which provides a calm feeling. In this loud and busy world, the color blue is an oasis of peace. Autism Speaks has a campaign called “Light It Up Blue”, where they call for people to wear blue to promote autism awareness.
Another idea that’s constantly associated with autism is puzzle pieces. The puzzle pattern shows the complexity of the autism disorder.
How can you and your child show your solidarity?
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Exchange your child’s shoe laces for blue ones.
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Bake puzzle piece cookies with your child.
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Bake sugar cookies and dye them with blue food coloring. (This kit is a great base, just change the cookie cutter.)
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Add a clue background to your social media profiles.
How can you teach your child to accept a friend with autism?
Young children are oh, so impressionable and always eager to learn. That can be- and is- a great thing, however it comes with risks as well. Children’s brains are like a sponge- drawing in and storing information that they come by. When a child sees a parent, or any adult in their life, interact with and accept those with disabilities, then that’s the best way for them to learn to be accepting. More on teaching your child about inclusion here.
The truth is, however, that autism is not a disability- it’s just a different ability and we ALL have different abilities.
Light it up Blue!
