What are the assets of autism spectrum disorder? Part II

Going on from my last blog where I introduced the assets of autism spectrum disorder and detailed the first three on my list, I will continue to work my way down that list to clarify how and why they are assets.

Attention to Detail

There is both a meticulousness and precision around particular aspects. They are very attuned to detail and can often be commended for their accuracy. This can be a major asset in workplaces that involve that skill such as quality control. Some more ideas for jobs can be found Choosing the Right Job for People with Autism or Asperger’s Syndrome by Temple Grandin. Although individuals with ASD frequently have difficulty with planning, organisation and decision making, research has revealed this happens because their brain activates in recognition of patterns more often than other individuals.

This capability to identify patterns may allow individuals with ASD to be exceptional at orienting to details. Due to their high interest in a particular topic that is important or has meaning to them, several children with ASD may be ‘experts’ in a subject area at school.

Deep Focus

Individuals with autism can have intense concentration levels. They can be very focused, alleviating distractions and interruptions from their surroundings. Adults can spend hours on an activity that is enjoyable to them. Children are also able to spend long periods of time attending to their preferred activities and special interests.

Skills in maths, science, computing areas

Since these areas are quite methodical, they are well suited subject areas for people with ASD. Their thought processes are analytical, they may have advanced skills in identifying patterns and repetition. Maths, science, computing and music are areas that entail patterns therefore Organizing and categorizing use these skills.

A particular study suggests that autistic children who display above-average math skills have slightly different brain organisation compared to their neurotypical peers. MRI scans revealed that children with autism used a different part of the brain to solve problems. When asked how they worked out the answer, the overwhelming response was that the children analysed and broke up the problem into smaller parts, rather than relying on memory.

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Specialised Interests

Children with ASD might often focus intently and build knowledge about particular areas and they’re specifically engrossed in. This can sometimes make them an expert as they have in-depth knowledge on a topic and a high skill level.

To promote your child’s learning along with social and communication skills try these activities:

• Join in with your child. Stay silent and continue to play alongside. Once they invite you in by looking at you, start commenting on what you’re doing. You are encouraging joint attention as well as social and communication skills.
• Your child’s interests are a gateway to further develop knowledge. As they line up cars you can count them, discuss colours, and different shapes and sizes.
• Talking to your child about their special interest teaches them the reciprocal nature of having a conversation. Give them a cue on when to stop so you can have a turn to speak then cue them back in. This approach teaches them turn-taking in conversing with others and in play situations.
• Utilising their special interest in a challenging situation can help to distract them from what the situation is. Allowing them to take their favoured object or provide a visual as a talking point in the uncomfortable environment or completing a non-preferred task will aid in risk-taking, self-regulation, and communication skills.

Observation skills

Some children and adults will sit back and watch and listen approach to learning. The visual demonstration serves to assist them in feeling ready to take on a task. We need to be encouraging risk taking in a safe and controlled environment and allowing them to take their time to process what they have seen and heard will enable that to occur.

Indifference to peer pressure

Children with autism are indifferent to peer pressure. They do not succumb to trends and being forced to do something they do not want to do.

They are less likely to judge others based on factors such as social status, achievements or career path, although may question standards.

This feature of ASD is an asset to individuals as it supports them in being their own person, not being influenced by others, and making decisions based on what they feel is right for them.

As I finish off this blog, I want you all to remember that ASD may be challenging in many ways BUT if we choose to focus on the assets then hopefully some days can be less tiring and far more rewarding. I have said this before…… perspective is everything!! In my next blog I will complete the three-part series on the assets of autism spectrum behaviour. Until then, remember the road ahead will test you and your child but you must focus in the positives.

Until next time please join me on my Facebook Page to interact and learn more….

Voula