What is Autism (ASD)? Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder and How Neurotypical Kids Can Support Their Peers
By Julie Diamond, OCT
2-minute read
Tomorrow, April 2nd, is recognized as World Autism Awareness Day - a time for us to come together to raise awareness, promote understanding, and celebrate the neurodiversity of autistic people.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects individuals in a variety of ways. As parents, educators, and members of society, it’s important to understand what ASD is, how it affects those who have it, and how we can support autistic children in everyday environments like school and home.
This blog will help answer the question: What is Autism (ASD)? and offer advice to parents of neurotypical children on how to support their peers who are autistic.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that impacts how a person interacts, communicates, and behaves. The term "spectrum" reflects the wide range of abilities and challenges that autistic people experience. No two autistic individuals are exactly alike. It’s important to know that. While some may have significant challenges with communication or social skills, others may have only mild difficulties or may be highly skilled in particular areas, such as math, music, or art.
The diagnostic criteria for ASD are based on two primary areas of difficulty:
Social Communication and Interaction – This may include challenges with understanding social cues, maintaining conversations, and forming relationships. Autistic people might have difficulty with nonverbal communication such as eye contact, facial expressions, or body language. They may struggle to interpret social norms, making interactions feel confusing or frustrating.
Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors – These behaviours include things like repeating specific actions (e.g., which may include hand-flapping, spinning objects), intense focus on specific topics or routines, or needing things to be in a particular order. Changes to routine or environment may cause anxiety or distress for autistic individuals.
To dive deeper into understanding how autistic students learn best and ways to support them in school, check out How Do Autistic Students Learn Best?
What Causes ASD?
The causes of autism are not fully understood, but research suggests that both genetic and environmental factors play a role. Autism tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component. However, certain environmental influences, such as prenatal factors, may also contribute. There is no single cause of autism, and researchers are still working to better understand the complex interaction between genes and the environment that leads to autism.
Signs and Symptoms of ASD
Autism is typically diagnosed in early childhood, though some children may show signs earlier, while others may not be diagnosed until later.
Early signs of autism may include:
Delayed speech and language skills: Autistic children may have a delay in speaking or may not speak at all. Some may also have trouble understanding or using language effectively.
Limited social interaction: An autistic child might avoid eye contact, not respond to their name, or seem uninterested in playing with others.
Repetitive behaviours: Autistic children may engage in repetitive actions, such as hand-flapping, rocking, or lining up objects.
Intense focus on specific interests: Some autistic children may become fixated on specific topics, hobbies, or routines.
For parents looking for guidance on how to support their neurodivergent child in school, this resource provides practical strategies to help children succeed in the classroom.
Identity-First Language vs. Person-First Language
When discussing autism, it's important to consider the language used. Many autistic individuals prefer identity-first language (e.g., "autistic person") rather than person-first language (e.g., "person with autism"). Identity-first language recognizes autism as an integral part of a person’s identity rather than something separate from them. While preferences vary among individuals, it’s respectful to ask and honour how a person prefers to be identified. Understanding this distinction fosters a more inclusive and respectful conversation about autism.
Supporting Your Peers Who Are Autistic: A Guide for Neurotypical Kids
Neurotypical refers to individuals whose brain functions, cognitive abilities, and behaviours align with what is considered “typical or expected” by societal and developmental standards.
As neurotypical children and adults, we may not fully understand what it’s like to experience the world through the lens of autism. However, we can all make a positive impact by being supportive and inclusive of our peers who are autistic.
On World Autism Awareness Day, here are some practical tips and strategies for parents of neurotypical children to support their autistic peers:
Educate and Encourage Empathy One of the most effective ways to help neurotypical children support their peers who are autistic is to teach empathy. Explain what autism is in an age-appropriate way and help your child understand that autistic people may communicate, interact, or behave differently, but that doesn’t make them any less important or capable of forming friendships.
Encourage Inclusivity and Friendships Autistic children may have difficulty initiating or maintaining friendships due to challenges with social interaction. As a parent, encourage your child to include their peers who are autistic in activities, whether it's inviting them to play a game, sitting together at lunch, or simply saying "hello."
Be Understanding of Sensory Needs Many autistic people have sensory sensitivities. This means they may be more sensitive to loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures. It can be helpful to understand and respect these differences, especially in environments like the classroom or during group activities.
Be Patient and Flexible An autistic child may not always respond to questions or invitations in the same way as a neurotypical child. They may need more time to process information or may not respond verbally at all. Patience is key when interacting with peers who are autistic.
Support Communication and Social Skills Autistic children may struggle with communication or social cues. Encourage your child to be clear, direct, and gentle when interacting with a peer who is autistic.
For additional resources on supporting students with special education needs, visit Diamond Teachers Group's Special Education Services.
Embracing Neurodiversity
On World Autism Awareness Day, we have the opportunity to honour the unique strengths, challenges, and experiences of autistic people. By supporting autistic children, teaching empathy, and fostering inclusivity, we help create a world where all children feel seen, heard, and valued.
Parents of neurotypical children play a critical role in shaping an inclusive society. Teaching children to understand, respect, and support their peers who are autistic is one of the most important ways we can help build a more empathetic and connected community. It’s not just about awareness - it’s about action. By making small efforts to support neurodiversity, we can make a big difference in the lives of those who are autistic.
Let’s celebrate this World Autism Awareness Day by committing to kindness, understanding, and a deeper appreciation of all individuals.