What is Autism?
Autism is a developmental disability that affects how children and adults view the world around them, and how they interact with others. Autistic people see, hear and feel the world differently to others and each individual has their own unique personality, skills and understanding. Autism is a spectrum condition (Autism Spectrum Disorder – ASD) which is vast, meaning autism affects each individual in different ways and they require different levels of support.
Some children with autism may be ‘high functioning’ (or Asperger’s, a term no loner used). Meaning, whilst they may appear similar to other children their age, they will likely present as less social or withdrawn, more focused on certain topics or activities and may be very knowledgeable on certain things such as animals and nature, historical events, academic subjects such as science or mathematics amongst many others. Autism in the UK affects almost a million people from all backgrounds and cultures and is seen more commonly in males.
What is important to remember is that with high functioning autism, it can be difficult for children to form lasting friendships for a variety of reasons. One factor is that other ‘mainstream’ children often don’t understand what autism is because it is ‘hidden’, and specifically how it affects those who have it. The Super Crew books are specifically designed to challenge this barrier, and to teach all children what it means to have a hidden disability.
This video produced by Amazing Things Project is a fantastic illustration for children, on how autism affects different people.
Support
The best support that any parents or carer can offer to children with autism is patience, understanding and reassurance. It can be a confusing world for children with additional needs, so having carers and friends that take their time and go at their pace is fundamental to an autistic child’s wellbeing. Children with autism can thrive and develop many skills with good support