Tag: ASD

Autism Awareness, Blog

Championing The Way With Neurodivergent Language

Clinicians, Physicians, and Autism: Navigating Support and Understanding

Championing The Way With Neurodivergent Affirming Language

Neurodivergent affirming language means using words and phrases that recognise and respect individuals with autism. Language changes over time, and terms that were okay in the past may not be acceptable now. Neurodivergent-affirming language is the kind of language preferred by the neurodivergent community and this is why it is important to stay informed about language updates that are considered to be more appealing to families and individuals with autism.

At our Autism Assessment Centres, we are committed to championing neurodivergent-inclusive language. Our aim is to provide families with a sense of empowerment and control of their own environment. By maintaining the right culture during assessments from the right people with the right skills and knowledge, it builds better relationships with children and families to ensure comfortable and accurate assessments.

Miren Goikoetxea, Project Manager of our Autism Assessment Centre says:

We pride ourselves in completing high-quality reports that are needs and strengths-based for each young person that attends our clinic. This ensures they know we understand them and are focused on each individual and their unique needs.

How To Be A Neurodiversity Champion

Championing The Way With Neurodivergent Language

Respect, Dignity and Inclusivity

Using appropriate language helps in respecting the identities and experiences of neurodivergent individuals. It affirms their individuality, rather than reducing them to their conditions. Neurodivergent language promotes inclusivity by ensuring that communication is accessible to everyone, regardless of their neurological differences. This helps in creating an environment where families and individuals feel valued and dignified within their communities. Our Autism Assessment Centres always ensure we portray the language that demonstrates this and we support families in respectful ways while guiding them through our assessment process.

Reducing Stigma and Creating Empowerment

When neurodivergent individuals see their experiences and identities reflected accurately and respectfully in language, it can boost their self-esteem and sense of belonging. Our team will always listen to and support the children and families who come to us to ensure they feel empowered and cared for. By using neurodivergent-affirming language, it helps to reduce the stigma associated with neurological differences. It challenges stereotypes and misconceptions as well as promoting a more accurate understanding of neurodivergence.

Education and Awareness

Appropriate language raises awareness which can lead to better support systems, policies, and practices that accommodate neurodivergent individuals. Neurodivergent language is a tool for advocacy. Our clinicians are experts in their field and bring with them years of experience, advanced skills, and an outstanding knowledge base. This helps in advancing the rights and interests of individuals, pushing for societal changes that recognise and accommodate neurological diversity.

The Double Empathy Problem and Mismatched Communication

The double-empathy problem (DEP) suggests that miscommunications between autistic and nonautistic people mainly happen because both sides struggle to understand each other, not because autistic people have social communication problems. Mismatched communication between neurodivergent and non-neurodivergent individuals often stems from differences in processing and expressing information. Neurodivergent individuals may prefer direct and clear communication, while non-neurodivergent people might rely on social cues, implied meanings, or non-verbal signals. These differences can lead to misunderstandings and feelings of being unheard on both sides. Effective communication requires mutual understanding and the willingness to adapt to each other’s communication styles, fostering an inclusive environment.

Autistic Individual Challenges

  • Understanding social cues.
  • Understanding hidden meanings.
  • Managing sensory distractions.

Non-Autistic Individual Challenges

  • Understanding differences in how communication is perceived.
  • Interpreting intentions of individuals with autism.
  • Approaching interactions as different as opposed to lacking.

Examples of Neurodivergent Affirming Language

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) change to Autism.

People with Autism change to Autistic

Leading The Way With Neurodivergent Language

Challenging behaviour change to specific descriptions relating to the individual.

Normal/abnormal change to neurotypical/neurodivergent.

Finding the Right Therapy for Your Child with Autism

Symptoms change to traits/characteristics.

High functioning/low functioning change to variable support needs.

Using language approved by the community helps fight stigma and obstacles. When discussing autism in general, use the language recommended by the community. The use of neurodivergent language is crucial in fostering a society that values diversity, promotes equity, fosters awareness and ensures that everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

We are proud to be at the forefront of promoting neurodivergent-inclusive language. By setting high standards and pioneering change, we demonstrate our commitment to creating a respectful and inclusive environment for everyone. Embracing neurodivergent language not only reflects our values but also ensures that all voices are heard and valued. We believe that by championing the way, we can inspire other organisations to follow suit, fostering a more inclusive society for all.

Find out more about how our Autism Assessment Services can support your family.

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Managing Behavioural Differences in Children with Autism

5 tips on finding the right homecare provider

Managing Behavioural Differences in Children with Autism

Children with autism have many unique characteristics and behaviours which may be challenging. Managing behavioural differences in children with autism can be complex but essential in improving their quality of life and overall functioning. It is important for parents and caretakers to seek support and guidance throughout this journey. Through patience, understanding, compassion, and by following the below guide, children can thrive in their school and home life.

A study conducted by the National Library of Medicine suggests that the prevalence of challenging behaviours increases with age during childhood, reaches a peak during adolescence and young adulthood, and then declines in later adulthood years.

Autism Services with Servisource

With occupational therapists, psychologists and speech and language therapists on our roster, the Servisource team has the right people to fulfill the needs of those with autism. Our dedicated team can facilitate a full range of services that adapt to the child’s needs organised in an efficient manner.

Managing Behavioural Differences in Children with Autism

Talk to a member of our dedicated team today.

Autism Assessment Centre

Be Understanding

Each child with autism is unique, so it’s crucial to understand their strengths, weaknesses, and triggers for challenging behaviors. Managing behavioural situations requires a deep understanding of each individual’s unique personality and needs. They require a tailored approach unique to them.

Keep in mind that some behaviors might be attempts to communicate needs or cope with sensory differences. As caregivers, it is our responsibility to approach these situations with compassion and empathy, understanding that certain behaviors may be a result of frustration or a need for sensory input. By incorporating techniques such as positive reinforcement, encouragement and creating a safe, predictable environment, we can help children with autism learn the appropriate behaviors to manage day to day life.

Managing Behavioural Differences in Children with Autism

Create a Structured Environment

Children with autism often thrive in structured and predictable environments. Establish a daily routine and use visual schedules or timers to help them understand what to expect throughout the day. When it comes to their learning and development, routines are essential. They find comfort in knowing what is coming next, which allows them to feel secure in their surroundings. As parents and caregivers, it is our responsibility to ensure that they have this structure in place.

When creating a structured environment for a child, it is important to consider their different sensitivities and perceive every detail from visual and auditory cues to the arrangement of furniture. By establishing consistency, providing clear expectations, and creating a supportive atmosphere, we can help them reach their full potential.

Managing Behavioural Differences in Children with Autism

Teach Communication Skills

Communication challenges may arise. One way to help this is to implement and encourage the use of alternative communication methods, such as sign language, picture exchange communication systems (flashcards or posters), repetition, and assistive technology devices (tablets or laptops).

Teaching communication skills to children is a crucial step in helping them build relationships and to navigate different social settings. Use simple, clear, and concise language. Speak slowly and provide enough time for the child to process information. Encourage communication throughout the child’s daily routines and create opportunities for communication during playtime, mealtime, and other activities. Celebrate every small step forward and remain patient and supportive throughout the process. Consistency and repetition are essential when teaching communication skills to children.

Managing Behavioural Differences in Children with Autism

Limit Environmental Triggers

Identify and minimise environmental triggers that might lead to challenging behaviors, such as loud noises, bright lights, or crowded spaces. The world can often feel like a confusing and overwhelming place for them at times.

Environmental triggers such as bright lights, loud noises, and strong smells can trigger anxiety and sensory overload. As parents and caregivers, it is essential to identify and limit these triggers to help promote a more comfortable and positive environment for them. By creating a calm and soothing atmosphere that caters to their specific needs, we can help them feel more supported and empowered to thrive. Compassion and understanding can make all the difference in helping these children grow and achieve their fullest potential.

As parents and caregivers of children with autism, it’s important to remember that managing behavioural traits is not an easy feat. With the right approach, and a plan in place to effectively address issues, it can be done with the help of dedicated professionals. It’s never too early or too late to start implementing strategies and the key is to create an environment full of respect and understanding while also providing consistency and structure. With patience and practice, families can help children manage their behavior and positively guide them toward independence.

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