Autism
Autism
What is it like to have Autism? Please, remember the following are my impressions through observations and work experience of what it would be like, no one can really know unless they are Autistic and can verbalize it:
- Sensitivity to sensory input: such as loud sounds (like a fire alarm). Visual; light can seem too bright. Touch: feelings of fear, irritation, anger and confusion, texture of food or clothing can also be upsetting. Smell: certain smells can be overwhelming.
- Confusion between what we expect and what they may understand.
- There is a blurred line between real and not real.
- Easily overwhelmed.
- Dislike of any change in routine.
- Ritualized behavior
- “Superpowers” in certain areas such as: Math, counting, sciences, music, or other areas.
- Problems with forming relationships and navigating the social world.
- “Black and White” or literal thinkers.
I will go through each of the above with examples:
Sensitivity to sensory information: People may have a problem with some clothing material, such as the feel of wool on their skin or tags on clothing. Sound can be a major issue at school or work. At school, if we knew there was a fire drill, we would prewarn the kids and write a social story about it (more on that later). Smell, often the smell of food cooking in the cafeteria was an issue. Children and some adults will run away or act out when the smell is overwhelming and displeasing.
***To veiw the whole paper please go to my website, listed below
** If you, a loved one, partner or friend of someone on the ASD spectrum, I can help!
*My last post will be on Friday
Be safe, kind and well
Heather Gill, MS