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How to tell child about their autism diagnosis

NAS78688

Hi my son has just been diagnosed. I found out yesterday he doesn’t know yet. Obviously he knew he was having assessments. He said a while ago he didn’t want autism as he didn’t want to be different and wants to live a normal life, which I’m sure he will. He’s 9 nearly 10 I would say his autism is mild/ he’s high functioning although he does rock noticeably in class. I don’t feel any differently about him but I don’t want him to feel differently or negatively about himself. Not sure how to tell him, what words to use. He associates autism with another child in his class who has autism and who he finds irritating. He has also been diagnosed with adhd. Thank you. 

  • It’s a cliche perhaps but the often used thing is to find out about lots of people from history and current celebrities etc who are autistic and talk to your child about them. If your child has an special interest try and find a well known autistic person connected to that interest and talk about them.

    For example if they’re into art you can explore all the autistic artists throughout history. Lots of actors, musicians and scientists are autistic - do just gear it to your child’s interests and help them to see that autism doesn’t have to limit you or stop you doing amazing things in life.