What is Autism?
Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference which impacts the way someone communicates, experiences the world, and interacts with others. Autism is a spectrum as autistic people have a range of traits, characteristics, strengths, and support needs.
Fact File
- Autism is not an illness, disease, or mental health condition
- Autism occurs in all racial, ethnic, and economic groups
- Every autistic person is unique, with their own set of traits, strengths, and support needs
- Autistic people are born autistic, it is not caused by vaccines, parenting style, or the environment
How to Help
- Be patient and listen
- Use clear and direct communication
- Avoid making assumptions – ask about preferences
- Utilise reasonable adjustments
Verbal Communication
Strengths
- Autistic people communicate in straightforward ways
- Autistic observations and interpretations can offer fresh insights into topics
- Many excel at retaining and sharing detailed, accurate information.
- Autistic people tend to give explicit verbal feedback rather than ambiguous non-verbal cues
How to Help
- Start with a person’s name
- Use clear and explicit language
- Be understanding around challenges turn-taking, staying on topic, or understanding cues
- Give additional time to process without interruption
- Be mindful of the environment
Be Neuro Affirming
- Avoid correcting or criticising communication attempts
- Invite clarifying questions
- Focus on the value of communication style
Stimming
What is stimming?
Stimming (short for self-stimulatory behaviour) refers to repetitive actions, movements, or sounds that individuals use to regulate emotions, sensory input, or energy levels. Stimming is a natural part of being autistic and can serve various purposes.
You can do this by building yourself a mindful routine:
Stimming can…
- Help manage feelings of anxiety, excitement, frustration, or overwhelm
- Help balance sensory inputs
- Communicate emotions that might be difficult to express verbally
- Help with concentration in overstimulating or stressful environments
Types of stimming
Physical stims (flapping, flicking, rocking) can help release energy or express emotions.
Auditory stims (humming, tapping, echolalia) can help to block out sounds or to self-soothe.
Visual stims (watching lights and manipulated objects) can help people focus.
Tactile stims (rubbing hands, fidgets, textures) offer comforting sensory feedback.
Oral stims (chewing, eating, drinking) can soothe anxiety or meet oral needs.
Back to Online Resources