02/04/2016
So today is 2nd April which is World Autism Awareness Day and marks the beginning of World Autism Awareness Week. Here's a few things you can do to help people on the spectrum, their families and caters, pretty much everyone you meet and your own lives!
Be Patient: Autism affects the way a person processes information whether it is written, spoken, visual, audible, smelled, tasted, felt, etc. Sometimes this means information takes longer to process for people with autism than other people. Take your time. Don't jump in before people have had a chance to respond. Breath. Listen to responses without thinking about your own response.
Be Clear: many people with autism will take language (written or spoken) very literally. Think about what you want to say and say exactly what you mean. Try and avoid words with double meanings and definitely try and avoid using metaphors. Give any instructions chronologically and in detail.
Be Friendly: not game show host friendly! Just open, gentle and polite. Think someone might be struggling? Just ask... "Do you need any help?" Not rocket science is it? Be discreet as we autistics can be a proud and stubborn bunch so might not want it broadcast that we're struggling with what most people find a simple part of their day but, we will appreciate the ask. Oh and no touching. For some of us touching is a big no no.
Finally,
Don't Assume: Remember you can't always tell that someone has autism just by looking at them. It is one of the most hidden disabilities (if that's a term you want to use I prefer different abilities). With that in mind if you attach the above rules to everyone you meet then life in general will be better won't it!
Thanks for reading.
