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How/when to tell a child they have ASD?

LeedsStar

Hi all, my little boy was recently diagnosed with autism. He's quite high functioning, so is at a mainstream school, doing really well, but obviously has his issues. Right now he is unaware of autism or that he has it. The clinic who diagnosed him did ask me if I wanted to go back so they could explain it to him, but suggested as he's unaware and hasn't asked any questions regarding his assessment, maybe leave it for now. Personally I agree, if I tell him I think I will be making him aware of it, when right now he doesn't need to be. 

What ages do people tend to tell their kids? Do you wait for them to ask questions, or do you mention it when they're young, so you're not one day breaking it to them? 

Parents

  • Thank you all. My son is 8 so is unaware right now, and I wasn't sure if I told him, if I would be making him obsess over it, or make him think he's different. He's a young 8, very naive. I didn't want to point it out, but at the same time I want to be honest. I already know how I will tell him, and of course I won't make it a negative thing. I will tell him his brain works a little different, so he may find the world a little confusing at times, but that it's nothing to be ashamed of. He may have to try harder at some things in his life, yet other things may come easier to him, and if he feels confused or upset he needs to tell his teachers. I just wasn't sure if I should leave this talk for a while. 

Reply

  • Thank you all. My son is 8 so is unaware right now, and I wasn't sure if I told him, if I would be making him obsess over it, or make him think he's different. He's a young 8, very naive. I didn't want to point it out, but at the same time I want to be honest. I already know how I will tell him, and of course I won't make it a negative thing. I will tell him his brain works a little different, so he may find the world a little confusing at times, but that it's nothing to be ashamed of. He may have to try harder at some things in his life, yet other things may come easier to him, and if he feels confused or upset he needs to tell his teachers. I just wasn't sure if I should leave this talk for a while. 

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