10 Things Someone with Autism Wants You To Know

As I have mentioned in my previous post, people with autism have  a very hard time communicating their feelings. They are unable to tell the people around them what they are thinking. If they could tell you, these are the things they would say:

1. Autism is only one piece of my total character. It does not define me as a person. 

2. My sensory perceptions are not wired the way yours are. My hearing may be hyper-acute, my sense of smell may be highly sensitive, and visually I may become easily overstimulated. My brain doesn't filter sensory input the way yours does, and often it causes the environment to seem hostile.

3. Communication is a major challenge for me. It is helpful that you speak very directly to me in plain and clear words. Tell me what you want me to do and what is going to happen next. 

4. I am a concrete thinker and I interpret what you say literally. When you say "it's pouring cats and dogs," I picture a pitcher with pets coming out of it. 

5. Be patient with my limited vocabulary. I don't always have the words to describe what I'm feeling. You may have to read my body language to understand what I'm struggling with or what is wrong. 

6. I am visually oriented so a visual schedule is one of the most important things to get me through my day. It helps make for easier transitions between activities and lowers my level of stress. 

7. I need help with social interactions. It is often difficult for me to read body language, facial expressions, or others emotions. 

8. Focus on what I can do, not what I can't do. I cannot excel in an environment where I feel worthless. A positive approach works best for me as it does for any other human. Look for my strengths and you will find them. 

9. Try to identify what causes my meltdowns. They are a form of communication and usually occur when my senses have gone into overload.

10. Please love me unconditionally. Without your support my chances for growth are diminished. With your support, the possibilities are bigger than you might think. 

Developed from 10 Things Your Child With Autism Wants You To Know by Stephen Borgman