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We are all different from each other. We have our own unique preferences, tastes and hobbies. Although we are all unique, we still share many similarities with those around us, even if we don’t realize it. One of the unique traits we might see within our schools or communities is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
People who have ASD are born with it, and have had it professionally diagnosed. Someone with ASD will have it for the rest of their lives, it is not something that can suddenly appear halfway through your life or something you can ‘discover’ in yourself or others.
If we have ASD, we will often cope very well in regular day-to-day situations. Having ASD makes us no different than the rest in our strengths and abilities. We might struggle in some social interactions where we may find it difficult to communicate our thoughts or feelings, express our emotions, and maintain eye contact. It can sometimes be overwhelming for us to process information during social situations.
At school, we may receive additional support that is designed to help us with our learning. It is important to know that this is a change in how we learn, but not what we learn. This means a teacher might have us sit in a specific area of the classroom, give us more time to complete assignments or tests and other tools that support our learning and allow us to participate in the classroom. Sometimes these are not enough, and we might need other learning modifications.
This means that a specific student might learn something different than our peers, and will have the curriculum adapted to a unique learning need. This is a great way to support and normalize the learning journey. Be supportive when you see someone receiving this, it makes all the difference to us and to our experience!
How wonderful to know that we are all unique. People with ASD have many different signs and symptoms. However, they are often teased and bullied, especially at school, because they have different strengths and weaknesses than others. It is important to remember that all people deserve respect. Here are a few things that may make it easier for you to support a friend or classmate with ASD:
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