Here’s a summary of my “Understanding Autism PTx” presentation:

Purpose & My Background

• Delivered for Autism Awareness Month by me, a neurodivergent coach with lived experience raising six neurodiverse children.

• The session is aimed at improving understanding, inclusion, and support for autistic individuals.

Key Concepts

1. What is Autism?

• A neurological developmental condition—not a defect, but a difference.

• Autism exists on a color wheel, not a linear spectrum, highlighting infinite variation.

• Neurodiversity is natural and as vital as biodiversity.

2. Origins & Brain Science

• Structural and gene expression differences in the brain are often present from utero.

• Differences are not “less than,” just different ways of perceiving and interacting with the world.

Core Autistic Traits: ESP Framework

E - Executive Functioning Strengths • Deep focus, detail-oriented thinking, strong routines, logical analysis, and honesty. Challenges: • Difficulty initiating tasks, time management, emotional regulation, and flexibility. Strategies: • Use visual schedules, reminders, and structured routines.

S - Sensory Processing Strengths: • Heightened perception, sensory joy, unique emotional ties to stimuli. Challenges: • Sensory overload, avoidance, filtering difficulties, interoception issues, dyspraxia. Strategies: • Create sensory-friendly environments with control over light, sound, and textures.

P - People Skills Strengths: • Honest communication, deep listening, loyalty, and inclusive attitudes. Challenges: • Misreading social cues, discomfort with small talk, processing delays, masking. Strategies: • Build trust through deep, meaningful conversations and non-verbal bonding.

Communication & Inclusion Tips

• Listen: Make space for different communication styles.

• Validate: Acknowledge feelings and experiences without judgment.

• Ask: Don’t assume—ask what’s helpful.

• Offer Support: Gently and respectfully, not forcefully.

Connection Styles Autistic connection may include: • Info-dumping on special interests, • Parallel play, • Blunt honesty, • Scripting (repeating familiar phrases), • Support through action.

Resources Mentioned

1 The Pattern Seekers by Simon Baron-Cohen

2 The Autistic Burnout Workbook by Dr. Megan Anna Neff – helps manage burnout through personalized strategies.

3 Self-Care for Autistic People by Dr. Megan Anna Neff – promotes unmasking, community connection, and neurodivergent health practices.

4 Seeing Autism by Barbara Avila – focuses on creating authentic engagement and supportive environments. Takeaway Message Autism is a different—not deficient—way of being.

When we shift from awareness to acceptance to appreciation, we build a world that works better for everyone. Support should always be led by the autistic individual’s preferences and needs.