6 Strengths of Individuals with Autism
Ask the Experts | GBC Autism Services
6 Strengths of Individuals with Autism
As a parent, one of your goals is to help your child maximize their strengths so they can lead a happy and productive life. This is especially crucial for children with autism. The key is to understand that the differences between autistic and neurotypical children can be qualities that allow them to shine.
Like any child, children with autism need to feel accepted to thrive. Therefore, the best thing you can do for your child is to embrace them, quirks and all.
Here are some characteristics of people with autism that translate into strengths throughout their lives:
Special Interests or Talents
People with autism are often extremely passionate and knowledgeable in areas of intense, solitary interest. These interests can help reduce other autism traits and build self-confidence. For example, children with autism often become more animated when discussing their passions. Some people with autism even highlight these special interests within very successful careers.
Detail-oriented
When motivated to pay attention, children with autism can be hyper-focused. This attention to the tiniest of details means they tend to make fewer mistakes than those with neurotypical minds. This allows them to excel in detail-oriented schoolwork or future careers, and even notice things that others may overlook.
Structured
Children with autism thrive on routine, crave consistency, and are adept rule followers. This translates to reliability, which is an asset in both professional and social situations. What can be perceived as inflexibility or rigidity allows children with autism to grow into punctual, organized, and dependable adults who follow workplace rules and strive to complete their work accurately.
Unique Communication
Children with autism are more likely to speak their minds with “no filter” regardless of the social context. They seldom lie and usually say exactly what they think. This straightforward manner of communicating means they grow into sincere, genuine, and honest adults.
Excellent Recall of Facts
People with autism often have an excellent rote memory, which enables them to recall large amounts of information, such as dialogue from movies. This exceptional memory can be a significant strength when it comes to academic skills, such as recalling and solving complex math formulas.
Authenticity
Children with autism are often perceived as “quirky” which means they are also nonconforming and not afraid to be themselves. This authenticity allows them to be more creative and questioning. Because they do not feel obliged to conform, they are less likely to fall prey to peer pressure and often bring openness and freshness to social interactions.
Embracing your child’s interests and strengths will help them navigate the world better and open the door to opportunities that incorporate their unique abilities.
GBC Autism Services, located in Grosse Pointe Woods, is a passionate team committed to transforming the lives of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder through Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy. For more information, please visit: www.gbcautismservices.com.