Having read a good number of these books, blogs and lectures, several takeaways for me are:
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Not all people with autism experience things the same way. They/we are all unique and have our own individual experiences of the world.
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One person’s account of their autistic experience should not be assumed and imposed on another person with autism.
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There is an infinitely wide range, a spectrum, of how each sense (smell, touch, taste, vision, and hearing) can be experienced.
Given the individuality and range of autism, I believe that the only way to better understand any one individual like your child is to stay curious, to observe, join, and not judge.
This week I encourage you to put aside your assumptions to spark your curiosity.
Become a detective… observe your child’s patterns, observe their behavior, listen closely to their sounds, join in more to imitate their movements.
Do all of this from a place of pure child-like curiosity… no pre-judgment… no pre-conclusions… no assumptions. Join them in their play and movement as a way to learn about them.
Enjoy this week, filled with curiosity and wonder!
Jonathan Alderson
Autism Expert
Founder, ThriveGuide
Author, Challenging the Myths of Autism
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Know what to do and when.
Actionable goals to best support your unique child, each prioritized so you know what do to first.
Maximize your resources.
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Start right away. No waitlists.
Practical strategies you can do at home.
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Your AIM: Be Curious!
On the go? Listen instead of read!
Children and adults with autism experience their environment and social interactions differently.
We have been afforded insights into these differences, often sensory-related but also cognitive, emotional, and physiologically-based, from first-hand reports.
There are now dozens of books written by autistic individuals, including children. They are insightful and essential to learn from for parents and professionals alike.
“My autism makes things shine. Sometimes I think it is amazing but sometimes it is sad when I want to be the same and talk the same and I fail. Playing the piano makes me very happy. Playing Beethoven is like your feelings – all of them – exploding.”
– Mikey Allcock, 16-year old who was non-speaking until age 10
Your AIM: Be Curious!
On the go? Listen instead of read!
Children and adults with autism experience their environment and social interactions differently.
We have been afforded insights into these differences, often sensory-related but also cognitive, emotional, and physiologically-based, from first-hand reports.
There are now dozens of books written by autistic individuals, including children. They are insightful and essential to learn from for parents and professionals alike.
“My autism makes things shine. Sometimes I think it is amazing but sometimes it is sad when I want to be the same and talk the same and I fail. Playing the piano makes me very happy. Playing Beethoven is like your feelings – all of them exploding."
- Mikey Allcock, 16-year old who was non-speaking until age 10