Let’s be real: explaining autism to your child’s classmates can feel like walking a tightrope over a pit of emotions. You want to be informative but not overwhelming, emotional but not weepy. The good news? It’s totally doable—and maybe even a little fun (yes, fun). Here’s how.
Step 1: Prepare Like a Pro
First things first, channel your inner motivational speaker. Preparation is key to delivering a message that sticks without unraveling into a puddle of feelings.
Know Your Goals
Before stepping into the classroom, decide what you want to achieve:
Increase understanding of autism.
Foster kindness and inclusion.
Empower classmates to support your child.
Use Age-Appropriate Language
Keep it simple for younger kids, using relatable analogies like: “Some brains are like iPhones, others are like Androids. Both are awesome, just different.”
For older kids, dive into specifics, focusing on autism as a spectrum of strengths and challenges.
Step 2: Use Visual Aids (They Work Like Magic)
Kids are visual learners. Use tools like:
Books: All My Stripes by Shaina Rudolph is a great choice for younger audiences.
Posters: Create a simple chart showing sensory differences or communication styles.
Videos: Short, engaging clips like “Amazing Things Happen” by Alexander Amelines.
Pro Tip: Avoid info overload. One colorful chart > a PowerPoint with 100 slides.
Step 3: Share Strengths AND Challenges
No one wants to hear a lecture on struggles alone. Make sure to highlight your child’s unique strengths alongside their challenges.
For example:
“My child might need quiet time during lunch, but they’re amazing at solving puzzles.”
“They might not like loud noises, but they can remember every dinosaur name ever.”
This balances empathy with awe, showing classmates the full picture.
Step 4: Keep It Relatable
Tie the explanation to something the kids already understand. Examples:
“Have you ever worn shoes that are too tight? That’s what loud noises feel like for my child.”
“Imagine trying to talk, but your words are stuck like peanut butter in your mouth. That’s what it can feel like to communicate.”
These analogies help kids empathize without feeling disconnected.
Step 5: Encourage Questions (Yes, Even the Awkward Ones)
Brace yourself: kids will ask interesting questions. (“Can you catch autism?” is a crowd favorite.)
Answer honestly but briefly:
“No, autism isn’t something you catch. It’s just the way their brain works.”
“They might not talk a lot, but they’re listening and understanding.”
Letting kids ask questions fosters curiosity and reduces fear of the unknown.
Step 6: End with Actionable Kindness
Wrap up by empowering kids to be great classmates. Offer simple tips:
“If my child looks overwhelmed, ask if they’d like a quiet space.”
“Invite them to play, even if they don’t always say yes.”
“Be patient if they take longer to answer—it doesn’t mean they don’t care.”
Pro Tip: Use role-playing games to practice these behaviors.
What to Avoid
Overloading with Jargon. Skip the “executive functioning” buzzwords. Stick to kid-friendly terms.
Turning It Into a Pity Party. Focus on empowerment and understanding, not sympathy.
Going Solo. Team up with the teacher or school counselor—they’re there to help!
Final Thoughts
Explaining autism to your child’s classmates is less about giving a TED Talk and more about fostering empathy and inclusion. Keep it light, relatable, and focused on helping kids see your child as just another awesome classmate with a unique way of seeing the world.
Need more resources or guidance? Call or text 614-470-4466, email admin@achievepsychology.org, or visit www.achievepsychology.org.
Works Cited
Amelines, A. (2017). “Amazing Things Happen” [Video].
Rudolph, S., & Royer, D. (2015). All My Stripes: A Story for Children with Autism. Magination Press.
American Psychological Association. (2023). Talking to Kids About Neurodiversity.
Autism Society of America. (2022). Strategies for Promoting Inclusion in Schools.
Understood.org. (2023). Explaining Autism to Kids: Tips and Tools.
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