Encountering #Autism: 5 Easy Tips for Beginners

In honor of Autism Awareness Month, I have decided to put together a list of short, sweet and easy-to-follow tips for interacting with friends, family members, co-workers and others who are affected by Autism. 

***If you've read any of my other posts, you know that this site is not designed for Educators. I work hard to pick out what I feel is the most useful information for the everyday person wanting to know more about disability, Special Ed and Inclusion. That being said, these are the 5 general tips that I feel will help you to feel more comfortable building relationships, but it's also important to note that Autism can affect people in so many different ways. If you need more in-depth information but don't know where to start, you can totally contact me for help!

Tip #1. 
Remember that people with Autism are PEOPLE! They are not victims and they are not a disease. Don't walk around feeling sorry for them because literally, that's, like, so shady! #GetYour___Together

Tip #2. 
Always assume that the person can understand language at the same level as their same-age peers. If you notice that this person isn’t able to understand you easily, you can adjust the way you speak as the conversation and/or relationship moves forward. #Yass


Tip #3.
Even if you can’t use advanced language with a person, you should still speak with a tone and attitude that matches his or her chronological age. Basically, don’t speak to a 15 year old in baby talk just because they look or think differently than you! #WTH #ByeFelicia 

 Tip #4.
Some people process language at a different speed. You know when someone says something to you and then you’re like, “huh?”, but before they repeat themselves you’re like, “Sike! I heard you!” It’s like that. Give them time to hear what you said, process that information and think about how they will answer you. This might feel like awkward silence at first, but IT'S PRODUCTIVE SILENCE!

Tip #5
People with Autism also may have a short attention span, so don’t ramble! #AintNobodyGotTime4That Instead, use short sentences that get straight to the main comment or question that you are trying to get at. 
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Good luck!
Your world will become so much bigger and brighter when you start using these tips to chill with friends who you never expected to bond with!


If you need more info, please contact me. I can answer questions or guide you to some great websites. 
Feel free to take anything from my page to use at work, at school, with family, friends or whatevzzz!