Living with Autism: Practical Advice for Families
7 min read
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts a person’s interactions with the world around them, their behavior and their communication. But no one’s experience of autism is exactly alike. Some kids might gravitate toward social play and talk all the time, while others may prefer solo activities. Tailoring support to the child—not the diagnosis—is key to nurturing growth and confidence.
Whether you’re just starting on your autism journey or have been on it a long time, sometimes it can be difficult to know what to do. We’re here to share practical tips to help you and your family navigate autism.
Misconceptions About Autism To Avoid
Autism is a term often used casually, without real basis behind it, which leads to many misconceptions. It’s also frequently confused with other neurodevelopmental conditions, like ADHD and learning disabilities, leading to even greater misunderstandings. Autism and ADHD can share many traits, such as sensory sensitivities and difficulty paying attention; however, they are unique diagnoses with distinct profiles.
Below are some more common misconceptions about autism:
“People with autism lack empathy.”
In reality, many people with autism feel emotions even more deeply than those without. Their brain function may make them process and express those emotions differently, making it appear as though they are not empathetic.
“Autism always presents with cognitive delays.”
Autism actually spans a very wide range of intellectual abilities. Some people with autism have cognitive delays, while others have extraordinary intelligence levels. Understanding the spectrum helps reduce stigmas and avoid stereotypes.
How Children Might Experience Autism
Kids with autism often navigate the world through a distinct sensory and behavioral lens. They may have strong preferences for routine. Unexpected changes in their plans or environment can result in severe stress and anxiety. Children with autism might engage in stimming behaviors, repetitive motions such as rocking or hand-flapping, that can help them self-soothe and focus.
Social interactions can look different for kids with autism, too. Some kids might enjoy parallel play, where they do not have to engage directly with others; some children may need extra time to process conversations.
There are also many cases of children masking, which is a coping strategy employed by many people with autism to hide their natural behaviors in the hopes of blending in socially. This can be exhausting over time, leading to further detrimental effects.
These differences are not flaws—they’re part of a diverse way of experiencing the world.
Tips for Managing Everyday Life With Autism
Autism can be a wonderful, and draining, experience for those with the disorder and their caregivers. We’re sharing some strategies from our occupational therapists and parents, to help manage everyday life with the diagnosis.
1. Embrace routine
Routines promote a sense of security and predictability for many kids with autism. You can incorporate visual schedules and timers to help smooth transitions from one activity to the next. If possible, before going to a new environment like a new school or a vacation, preview what to expect with social stories, photos or a physical visit. This can reduce anxiety around it being new.
2. Prepare in advance
Remember that outings require more than typical preparation, especially when there is potential for sensory overload. Make sure to pack sensory tools to encourage calm and self-regulation, like a weighted vest, chewies, fidgets and noise reducing headphones.
3. Connection over correction
A common symptom of autism is struggling with emotional regulation and social-emotional skills. Empower kids to manage their frustration and overstimulation with emotional regulation tools, such as Calm Down Jars and mindfulness exercises. Encourage them further by focusing on connection, rather than correction, when challenges come up, to model emotional regulation.
Helpful Tools and Sensory Products for Autism
There are many sensory tools available to meet and support the diverse needs of children with autism. Some popular choices for parents and therapists to use include:
You can find the perfect fidget to fit your needs. These small tools are great to help children stay focused while seated, get through transitions without meltdowns, and satisfy the need for additional tactile stimulation.
The Stretch Me Chair Fidget offers kids a quiet way to tap their feet at their desk. Use the Weave-It Fidget Ball to promote concentration and creativity on the go.
Tag-free compression tops, bottoms and vests that offer a hug-like sensation can help kids return to sensory equilibrium during stressful times, such as transitions. The soothing pressure is just right all-day comfort and relaxation.
Sized perfectly to fit on a child’s lap, these give grounding proprioceptive input. Offer the lap pad to maintain calm and make it easier for a child to focus on how they feel. You can choose a lap pad with added tactile elements, as well, such as the At the Beach Discovery Bag and the Busy Fingers™ Fidget Lap Pad.
Someone may rave about a tool to you, but that does not mean it will work for your child’s autism experience. However, with trial and observation, you will be able to find what best supports your child.
Supporting a child with autism begins with patience, understanding and the right set of tools in your toolbox. There can be moments of frustration—remember that your child is doing their best! By celebrating their individuality and meeting their needs, you can create an environment where your child with autism can thrive.
FAQs About Living With Autism
What is the hardest age for autism?
While there is no “hardest age” for autism, transitional times in life can be especially challenging. Adolescence, for example, comes with changes in structure, expectations and social dynamics that a child with autism may struggle with.
What is the best lifestyle for autism?
No two people with autism are the same, and no one lifestyle is the best one. A supportive environment that provides consistency, embraces the child’s interest and includes time to focus on sensory needs can make a positive impact.
Do people with autism have empathy?
Yes! Many people with autism have a strong sense of empathy, although it may be expressed in less conventional ways.
Do people with autism like to be alone?
Whether a child with autism prefers solitude or seeks connection depends on their personality and sensory needs.
What calms people with autism?
Calming strategies vary from person to person. Some kids prefer quiet spaces, while others respond well to rhythmic music. Experiment with different sensory tools and forms of stimulation to identify what is calming for your needs.
What is stimming?
Stimming is the self-stimulating behavior that many people with autism engage in, such as rocking, humming or hand-flapping. The repetitive motions often help regulate emotions and sensory input. Learn more about stimming here.
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