Hi everyone, Today, I want to talk to you about something really important. Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD for short. You’ve probably heard the word “autism” before, but maybe you’re not exactly sure what it means. And that’s okay. That’s what we’re here to learn. So, what is ASD? Autism Spectrum Disorder is a difference in how a person’s brain works. It’s not a disease. It’s not something you can catch, and it’s not something someone needs to be “fixed” from. People with autism just experience the world differently. Imagine you have a phone with a totally different operating system than everyone else’s. It still works, and it can do amazing things! Sometimes things that others can’t, but it might run apps a little differently, or have settings no one else has seen before. That’s kind of like what having autism is like. ASD affects people in a few main ways: Communication – Some people with ASD may have trouble speaking, or they might not use words at all. Others talk a lot but may find it hard to have back-and-forth conversations or understand things like sarcasm or body language. (Or, they may be extremely good at picking up at social cues. It’s all dependant on the person.) Social interaction – They might prefer to be alone, or not know how to start a conversation. This doesn’t mean they don’t want friends, it might just be harder for them to connect in the way most people do. (Or, they may be really good with starting conversations, and being in crowds. It is not limited to this brief description!) Repetitive behaviors and routines – Many autistic people like things to stay the same. They might repeat actions or words, or feel very anxious when their routine is suddenly changed. (Again, this is all dependant on the person! Said person may enjoy change, and that’s completely alright as well.) Sensory differences – Sounds, lights, textures, or even smells can feel way more intense, or sometimes way less noticeable for someone with autism. Here’s something important: Autism is a spectrum. That means no two autistic people are exactly alike. Some might need a lot of support every day, while others may be super independent and you might not even realize they’re autistic unless they tell you. You might even know someone with ASD already! A classmate, a cousin, or a friend. They might have amazing memory, be great at art or math, or be really passionate about something like trains, animals, or video games. Everyone has their strengths and challenges, and people with autism are no different in that way. So what can you do? Be kind. Everyone deserves respect. Be patient. If someone doesn’t answer right away, or acts a little differently, give them space and understanding. Don’t make fun of someone because they’re different. We’re all different in some way. And most importantly, listen. If someone shares their experience with autism, believe them and support them. Autism isn’t a problem to solve. It’s a way of being. And the more we understand, the better we can be as friends, classmates, and people. Thanks for listening.
I’d also like to state autism should not be used as a joke, insult or anything of the sort. It is wrong. Autism is a disorder, not a chosen lifestyle. It’s not “quirky” and no one’s “asking for attention”. It is a genuine disorder like any other, again, it is NOT by choice, and it can be a genuine struggle. Autism is a spectrum, not limited to a stereotype. And people with ASD are not limited to their disorder.
