Explaining Adult Autism to a 6 year old

We have a 32 year old autistic son (Richard) who lives with us permanently. We also have a 6 year old granddaughter who lives a few minutes walk away and spends some time with us on most school days. Over Christmas I heard our granddaughter as our son-in-law (her Dad): How can I get to know Uncle Richard better. I was floored and have to admit that I avoided the conversation. Her Dad said that Uncle Richard finds some things difficult, and it will take time. That seemed to satisfy her at the time, but I suspect it will not last long. Has anyone got any ideas about how to explain autism to a neuro-typical 6 year old who is inherently kind?

Parents
  • If you type "Talking to your child about autism" into a search engine, one of the first few results should be from the BBC CBeebies website, which has suggestions and guidance.

    Is there something that they would enjoy doing together? Shared interests can help develop friendship.

Reply
  • If you type "Talking to your child about autism" into a search engine, one of the first few results should be from the BBC CBeebies website, which has suggestions and guidance.

    Is there something that they would enjoy doing together? Shared interests can help develop friendship.

Children