Last time, we talked about how autism can be different for everyone and how it might affect you.
Look at the boxes below.
Challenges in using and understanding language, sarcasm, humour and body language (e.g. lack of eye contact, limited/animated facial expressions)
Sensory aversive (e.g. noise sensitivity) or sensory seeking behaviours (touching and feeling things)
A need for routine and struggle with changes
Repetitive body movements such as stimming, rocking or finger flicking
Lack of theory of mind, cannot understand peoples’ perspectives
Difficulty participating in tasks with no clear ending such as open writing tasks
Fixation/intense interests that might change over time
Inability to initiate or maintain friendships
Failure to seek pleasure from social interactions
Needing things in a specific manner, non-functional rituals and compulsions
Now have a think…
Even if you find some things hard, autism also comes with lots of amazing strengths.
| Able to focus on one thing | Strong reader | Acceptance of other’s differences |
| Creativity | Honesty | Loyalty to family and friends |
| Acceptance of others’ differences | Strong sense of rules | Good memory |
SPELL is the National Autistic Society’s framework for understanding and responding to the needs of autistic children. You may find it helpful to think about ways in which these may help you.
Aids personal autonomy and independence by reducing dependence. Environments and processes can be modified using visual information to ensure each person knows what is going to happen and what is expected of them, thereby reducing anxiety.
Establish and reinforce self-confidence and self-esteem by building on natural strengths, interests and abilities. Expectations should be high but realistic and based on careful assessment including barriers in accessing opportunities.
Try to understand what motivates or interests them but importantly what may also frighten, preoccupy or otherwise distress them. Aim at developing communication and reducing anxiety.
Approaches and the environment need to be calm and ordered. There should be as few distractions as possible. Supplementary relaxation and arousal reduction therapies, multi-sensory rooms, music and massage, sensory diet etc.
Autistic people, their parents or advocates should be seen as partners. Share information and work alongside the individual, their families and other professionals. Create and maintain links between the individual, their wider support networks and the community.
How could you use these ideas to help you? Is there anything here you would like to try between now and our next session?
Here are some ideas you might want to try:
🕑 Use a timer to help you know when it’s time to start or stop
📅 Make a routine for things like getting ready in the morning or doing homework
🎉 Reward yourself when you finish something tricky
🔲 Use “Now” and “Next” boards to see what’s coming up
🎯 Have a clear goal – like 15 minutes of homework, then a break
Next time, we’ll look at some special tools and strategies that can help you with the things you find hard.
Please note: We are not an emergency service, if you are in crisis and need urgent support or are worried about immediate risk of harm to self or others, please call 999. Alternatively, you can contact your GP and ask for an emergency appointment or visit your local A&E department. You can also contact the following services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: NHS Helpline (111) and Samaritans (116 123).