Autism and Neurodiversity

What Is Autism?

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference that affects how a person communicates, processes sensory information, interacts socially, and experiences the world.

Autism exists on a spectrum, meaning no two autistic individuals are the same. Some people may need significant daily support, while others live independently.

Autism affects:

Communication (spoken language, gestures, tone, or understanding social cues)
Social interaction (back-and-forth conversation, relationships, social rules)
Sensory processing (sounds, lights, textures, smells can feel extra intense—or barely noticeable)
Behavior and interests (repetitive movements, routines, or deep focus on specific interests)

Individuals with autism also can have amazing strengths! Such as:

Strong memory
Attention to detail
Creativity (music, art, patterns)
Honesty and deep focus
Unique problem-solving skills

What support and therapies are helpful for people with autism?

Support can be highly individualized—what’s helpful for one person may not be helpful or necessary for another.

Common supports include:

Behavioral Supports (ABA/Applied Behavior Analysis)
Social communication support

Speech Therapy
Occupational Therapy (OT)
Physical Therapy (PT)
Social communication support
Music and art therapy
Educational Supports (IEPs/504 plans, classroom accommodations, visual supports, and assistive technology)
Mental Health Support
Family & Caregiver Support

What is ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)?

ABA is a therapy based on the science of learning and behavior. It looks at how behavior is influenced by the environment and uses structured strategies to help individuals develop helpful skills and reduce challenging behaviors.

ABA programs are highly individualized and may focus on areas such as:

Communication and language
Social skills
Daily living skills (e.g., dressing, eating, toileting)
Emotional regulation
Attention and learning readiness

ABA should emphasize on

Child-led and play-based approaches
Functional communication instead of behavior suppression
Respect for autonomy and neurodiversity
Collaboration with families

Rather than-
- focused too heavily on compliance
- aimed to make learner “look typical” instead of support their well-being
- providing excessive hours and rigid goals that could potentially be stressful and counterproductive

What Is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is the idea that brain differences—such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more—are natural variations of the human brain, not deficits that need to be fixed.

The neurodiversity perspective:

Recognizes differences as part of human diversity
Focuses on strengths as well as challenges
Promotes acceptance, inclusion, and accessibility
Supports people in thriving as they are

Being neurodiversity-affirming means:

Valuing autistic voices and lived experiences
Supporting communication in all forms (spoken, AAC, music, movement, etc.)
Adapting environments rather than forcing individuals to conform

What can parents do to support a child with autism?

Parents can support their child by:

Learning about their child’s unique strengths and needs
Advocating for appropriate supports and accommodations
Creating predictable, safe, and supportive environments
Encouraging communication in all forms (spoken, visual, AAC, music, movement)
Focusing on connection, confidence, and emotional safety

There is no single “right” approach—what matters most is understanding and supporting your child as they are.

What can the community and world do to support?

Communities can support the autism community by:

Practicing patience, understanding, and acceptance
Reducing sensory overload when possible (noise, lighting, crowds)
Allowing flexibility in communication, behavior, and learning styles
Including autistic voices and lived experiences
Creating inclusive spaces where differences are respected, not judged

When environments become more inclusive, autistic children are better able to thrive.