Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder
Understanding Autism Through a Neurodiversity-Affirming Lens
Autism is a natural and valuable variation of the human mind. Rather than viewing it as a “disorder” to be fixed, many are embracing a more empowering perspective—one that sees autistic individuals as having unique ways of experiencing and interacting with the world.
The term Autism Spectrum reflects the incredible diversity among autistic individuals. No two people are the same—some may communicate in unconventional ways, others may have specific interests or sensitivities, and all have their own strengths, challenges, and personalities.
While an official diagnosis of autism isn't essential to support or understand your child, it can provide helpful insights. For many families, a diagnosis opens doors to tailored resources, helps educators and caregivers respond more effectively, and—perhaps most importantly—gives children the language to better understand and embrace who they are.
Signs That May Indicate Your Child Is Neurodivergent
Every child develops at their own pace, but some behaviours might suggest that your child experiences the world in a way that’s consistent with autism. These may include:
A preference for deep focus on specific topics or activities
Different ways of engaging in communication, such as limited eye contact or a unique use of gestures and facial expressions
Enjoyment of routines and familiarity, with distress when routines change unexpectedly
Repetitive movements or soothing behaviours like rocking, spinning, or flapping
Sensitivities to certain sounds, lights, textures, or smells
Differences in how they engage with pretend play or social interaction
These are not “problems” to fix—they are simply traits that reflect a different but equally valid way of being. Some of these behaviours may bring joy and comfort; others might make navigating certain environments more challenging.
Why Seek a Diagnosis?
While a diagnosis isn’t the only path to understanding, it can be empowering. For children, it can provide language and clarity that helps them feel seen and understood. For parents and caregivers, it can guide how best to support a child’s emotional, social, and sensory needs—both at home and in school.
A diagnosis may also connect families to helpful services such as occupational or speech therapy, educational support, or autism-affirming counselling. However, many families also choose to support their child without formal labels, focusing instead on individual needs, strengths, and preferences.
Supporting Autistic Children with Love and Respect
Whether or not you pursue a diagnosis, the most important thing is to nurture a child’s self-worth. Encouraging children to love and accept themselves as they are builds lifelong resilience.
Creating supportive environments where your child feels safe, valued, and celebrated allows them to flourish. That might mean adjusting sensory inputs, embracing their passions, or advocating for inclusive practices at school.
You're Not Alone—Support Is Available 💛
If you’re navigating this journey and looking for guidance, play therapy can be a powerful tool for supporting your child’s emotional wellbeing in a gentle, non-intrusive way.
My practice offers neurodiversity-affirming play therapy that celebrates your child’s uniqueness while helping them explore their feelings, build confidence, and develop tools to thrive. Whether your child is expressive or reserved, sensory-seeking or sensitive—play therapy meets them where they are.
📩 Feel free to get in touch to learn more or schedule a session. I'd be honoured to walk alongside you and your child.
Advocacy and Support Agencies
- AsIAm - As I am is an Irish autism charity that work to support the Autistic community and their families to fully engage in Irish life and build the capacity of society to facilitate true inclusion.
- Middletown Centre for Autism
- National Autistic Society (UK)
- ADHD Ireland - the national ADHD charity providing non-medication management supports of ADHD
- Children’s Rights Alliance - Advocacy organisation for children in Ireland
- National Council for Special Education
- Family Carers Ireland - Supporting carers in Ireland