Can you answer "What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?" If not, start here...

by Jessica Cleary, Psychologist

This simple 5 minute clip is a great introduction to autism! With an aim to raise awareness amongst those who don't really understand the condition, this short film is a good place to start.

Who might benefit from watching?

1. New teachers: Many graduate teachers have very little training and guidance when it comes to teaching students with special needs. Given how prevalent autism is, it is very likely that teachers will have at least one autistic child in their classroom within their first few years of teaching. If teachers have not personally had a connection with autism prior to entering the classroom, they may not understand the condition and be ill-equipped to support these students. Videos like this can be helpful so teachers can better differentiate behaviour that stems from autism and behaviour which stems from other causes. 
2. Parents of a newly diagnosed autistic child: Parents going through the diagnostic process with their child have a varied level of understanding about autism. Some parents are very familiar and are better prepared as they may have a close family member with the diagnosis. Other parents are completely blind sided when a health professional suggests that their child may have autism. This video is for them as a first step to help start the understanding and acceptance process.   
3. Children: Your child may have heard the term Autism at school, or know that a child in class has Aspergers, but lacks the understanding of what that means. It can be difficult to answer the question "What is autism?' when you, as the parent, may not have a solid understanding yourself. Watch this video with your child and start a conversation about individual differences and how people with autism may experience the world around us.   

Share widely, and together we can demystify autism and move a little closer to living in a world where all individuals are treated with understanding, compassion and acceptance!

Jessica Cleary
Jessica is the Principal Psychologist and Director of Hopscotch & Harmony as well as the grateful mother of three children. She is passionate about building resilience in children and helping parents guide their children's behaviour through positive, effective parenting approaches. ​