Autism is talked about a lot, and much of what parents hear is out of date or wrong. Here are some of the myths I hear most often in my practice, and what is actually known.
- Myth: Autistic children don't want friends.
Fact: Many autistic children want connection very much; they may find the unwritten rules of social interaction hard to read and need support to build friendships. - Myth: Autism is caused by parenting.
Fact: Autism is neurodevelopmental. Nothing a parent did or didn't do causes it. - Myth: Autistic children can't communicate.
Fact: Every child communicates. Some use speech, some use gestures, pictures or devices. The job of a speech-language pathologist is to find the ways that work for that child and grow them. - Myth: Using AAC will stop a child from talking.
Fact: Research shows the opposite. Giving a child a reliable way to communicate reduces frustration and often supports spoken language. - Myth: Bilingual homes make autism worse.
Fact: There is no evidence that a second language harms an autistic child. Children should keep the languages their family uses. - Myth: It's too early to tell.
Fact: Reliable signs are often visible by 18 to 24 months. Early help and therapy can make a big difference. - Myth: Autistic kids can't lead independent lives.
Fact: With support and understanding, many autistic kids can live fulfilling and independent lives.
If you are wondering about your own child, you don't need to have the answer before you call. That's what an evaluation is for.