Neurodiversity 5 min read

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

Autism Spectrum Disorders encompass a range of neurodevelopmental differences affecting social communication, sensory processing, and behavioral patterns, with each autistic person having a unique profile of strengths and challenges.

You're not alone

If your teen was recently diagnosed or you're recognizing autistic traits, you're joining a growing community embracing neurodiversity. Current estimates suggest 1 in 36 children are autistic, with many more diagnosed in adolescence, especially girls and those without intellectual disabilities. Many parents discover their own autism after their child's diagnosis. The autistic community offers rich resources, perspectives, and support. Your teen's autism is part of who they are, not something separate to fix or hide.

What it looks like day to day

Student

Your teen excels in subjects matching their interests but struggles with group projects, preferring to work alone where they can control variables and avoid social complexity.

Parent

You've learned that "How was school?" gets a one-word answer, but asking specific questions about their favorite subject launches enthusiastic, detailed conversations.

Tiny steps to try

Support your autistic teen by working with their neurology, not against it, building on strengths while addressing challenges.

1

Honor processing time

Allow extra time for responses to questions or transitions between activities. Rushing increases anxiety and shutdown risk.
2

Create predictable spaces

Maintain consistent organization in their room and study areas. Predictability reduces cognitive load, freeing energy for other tasks.
3

Respect stimming

Understand that repetitive movements or sounds help self-regulation. Only redirect if genuinely harmful, offering alternative stims if needed.
4

Interest-based learning

Connect new information to special interests. [Deep engagement](/the-parent-bit/deep-play-helps-teenagers-learn) with interests builds skills transferable to other areas.
5

Communication preferences

Some autistic teens communicate better through writing, art, or [drawing](/the-parent-bit/pencil-power-drawing-as-a-natural-treatment-for-adhd-in-kids-and-teens). Find what works for your teen.

Why understanding autism matters

Autism isn't a disease to cure or a tragedy to overcome. It's a neurological difference affecting how your teen experiences and interacts with the world around them.

Core aspects of autism:
• Different social communication patterns and preferences
• Sensory processing differences causing over or under-sensitivity
• Need for predictability and routine for emotional regulation
• Deep, focused interests providing joy and expertise
• Repetitive behaviors that serve self-regulation functions
• Unique learning styles often favoring visual or pattern-based thinking

Understanding autism as a neurological difference rather than a deficit helps families support authentic development rather than exhausting masking.

References

Baron-Cohen, S. (2017). Editorial perspective: Neurodiversity - a revolutionary concept for autism and psychiatry. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 58(6), 744-747.

Lai, M. C., Anagnostou, E., Wiznitzer, M., Allison, C., & Baron-Cohen, S. (2020). Evidence-based support for autistic people across the lifespan: Maximising potential, minimising barriers, and optimising the person-environment fit. The Lancet Neurology, 19(5), 434-451.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Should we pursue an autism diagnosis for our teen?

Diagnosis can provide access to accommodations, services, and self-understanding. Many teens find diagnosis validating, explaining lifelong differences. However, diagnosis also carries potential stigma and discrimination risks. Consider your teen's needs, available supports, and their own preferences. Some families find informal understanding sufficient, while others benefit from formal diagnosis. Either way, supporting your teen's authentic self matters most.

How do we handle meltdowns and shutdowns?

Meltdowns and shutdowns are neurological responses to overwhelm, not behavioral choices. Prevention works better than intervention: identify triggers, respect capacity limits, and build in recovery time. During episodes, reduce demands, minimize sensory input, and ensure safety without trying to reason or teach. Afterwards, collaborate on prevention strategies. Remember these are as distressing for your teen as for you.