How to Teach Young Kids About Autism

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 110 children in the U.S. have autistic spectrum disorder (ASD). This developmental disorder affects a child's social, behavioral and communication abilities. It can be hard for an autistic child to make friends and interact with his peers. Teaching young kids about autism and ASD can help them understand how this disorder affects children and bring out their feelings. A child's compassion and understanding toward an autistic child can make the autistic child feel much more comfortable and at ease.

Instructions

    • 1

      Explain to children that autistic children are sometimes unable to express their feelings and happiness by smiling and being outwardly friendly. Children may mistake the autistic child's unemotional behavior as disinterest if they do not understand this point.

    • 2

      Tell kids that autistic children may not be able to speak as well as other children. Make clear that children shouldn't be frustrated if an autistic child doesn't understand them at first. Tell kids to be patient and maybe find another way to play or speak to the child.

    • 3

      Let children know that sudden or loud movements can scare an autistic child. Tell kids to go slow and let the other child get used to them before playing in a rambunctious or excited way.

    • 4

      Express that autistic children are very unique and our differences are what make us interesting. Tell kids that autistic children are smart but look at things differently and that the children can learn a lot from each other.

    • 5

      Encourage kids to be themselves around autistic children.

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