What is PECS, and how can it help your nonverbal child communicate? At Nurturing Nests, we explain how the Picture Exchange Communication System empowers children with autism to express their needs using pictures. Learn how PECS reduces frustration, builds language skills, and supports independence through a proven, step-by-step communication method.
What is autism scripting, and why is it more than just repetition? At Nurturing Nests, we explain how scripting helps children on the spectrum communicate, self-regulate, and connect. Learn how to support this meaningful communication style with empathy, practical tools, and professional guidance tailored to your child’s needs.
What is shaping in ABA? At Nurturing Nests, we explain how this powerful technique helps children with autism learn new skills, step by step. By reinforcing small wins and building on each success, shaping transforms frustration into confidence. Discover how ABA therapists use shaping to teach communication, daily routines, and independence in ways that feel safe and encouraging.
Wondering how to help an autistic child thrive? From building communication skills to creating structured routines, small changes can lead to big breakthroughs. This guide from Nurturing Nests offers practical tips, proven therapies, and family-centered strategies to support your child’s growth and confidence every step of the way.
What does the acronym ASD stand for? ASD means Autism Spectrum Disorder, a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how people communicate, interact, and experience the world. This guide from Nurturing Nests explains the meaning of ASD, its common characteristics, diagnosis levels, and support options for children and families.
What is a behavioral therapist? These licensed professionals use proven techniques to help people change harmful behaviors, manage emotions, and build healthier habits. Whether treating anxiety, autism, or depression, behavioral therapists focus on practical, goal-based strategies that support lasting change. In this guide from Nurturing Nests, discover how they work, what therapy types they use, and how to find the right fit for your family’s needs.
What is overstimulation? It’s when your brain receives more sensory input than it can handle, like too much noise, light, or touch, causing anxiety, fatigue, or shutdown. In this expert guide from Nurturing Nests, learn how to recognize sensory overload, manage triggers, and support yourself or your child with calming strategies that actually work.
Is high-functioning autism considered a disability? Yes, under federal law, it qualifies for important protections and support. In this family-friendly guide from Nurturing Nests, learn how high-functioning autism affects daily life, what legal rights are available, and how therapies and accommodations can help your loved one thrive at home, in school, and beyond.
Imagine this: your 8-year-old is a math whiz, reads at a high school level, and knows everything about dinosaurs. But they avoid eye contact, get overwhelmed by loud noises, and have meltdowns when routines change. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What does high-functioning autism look like?” this might be it.
High-functioning autism can be easy to miss. Children may appear gifted or simply “quirky,” but underneath, they often face challenges with social cues, sensory processing, and flexibility. Understanding what it really looks like can help parents support their child’s unique strengths and needs.
While “high functioning autism” isn’t an official medical term found in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), it’s widely used to describe individuals on the autism spectrum who have strong verbal communication skills and can handle basic life skills independently. The American Psychiatric Association now classifies this as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Level 1.
Before 2013, conditions like Asperger’s syndrome were considered separate from autism spectrum disorder. When the DSM-5 was published, all these related conditions were unified under the umbrella term “autism spectrum disorder.”
This change reflects our growing understanding that autism exists on a spectrum. Some autistic people need extensive daily support, while others live independently, hold jobs, and even excel in their chosen fields.
The autism spectrum isn’t linear – it’s more like a color wheel with different combinations of traits and intensities. One autistic person might excel at pattern recognition while struggling with social relationships. Another might have strong empathy but find loud noises unbearable.
Current research suggests that autism results from differences in brain development that occur in early childhood. These neurological differences affect how autistic people process sensory input, communicate with others, and understand social expectations.
What makes high-functioning autism particularly complex is that many individuals develop sophisticated coping mechanisms over time. This “masking” can make it difficult for family members, teachers, and even mental health professionals to recognize the underlying challenges.
Many autistic people can make eye contact, but it often feels uncomfortable or overwhelming. Some describe it as distracting, making it hard to process what someone is saying. Others may stare intensely without realizing it makes others uncomfortable.
Unlike neurotypical children who naturally pick up on facial expressions and body language, autistic individuals often need direct instruction to understand social cues. They may take jokes literally, miss sarcasm, struggle with nonverbal communication, and have difficulty recognizing when someone is bored or navigating unwritten social rules.
Many autistic individuals are great at sharing in-depth knowledge about their interests but may find typical back-and-forth conversations challenging. They might dominate discussions about favorite topics, interrupt when excited, struggle with small talk, or have trouble shifting between topics.
Self-stimulatory behaviors, like hand flapping, rocking, pen clicking, or leg bouncing, help regulate sensory input and emotions, offering comfort, focus, or a way to express excitement. While these actions may seem unusual to others, they often serve an important self-soothing purpose for autistic individuals.
Autistic children may develop encyclopedic knowledge in their chosen areas and maintain these interests for years. While these can become valuable career assets, they might also interfere with other activities when too consuming.
Changes in schedule or unexpected events can trigger significant anxiety. This reflects the autistic brain’s preference for predictability rather than stubbornness or control-seeking behavior.
Sensory sensitivities affect the vast majority of autistic people and significantly impact daily life. These can involve:
Everyday sounds like vacuum cleaners or hand dryers can feel overwhelming for some autistic individuals, who may also notice subtle noises such as buzzing fluorescent lights that others easily ignore. Quiet spaces are often essential to help them regulate and feel calm.
Bright lights, especially fluorescent lighting, can feel exhausting for some autistic individuals. They may prefer dimmer environments and often notice visual details that others easily overlook, which can become distracting.
Many autistic individuals experience discomfort with clothing tags or certain fabrics, avoid unexpected touch, and have specific preferences when it comes to physical contact. These sensitivities are part of how they process and respond to sensory input.
What may seem like picky eating is often a response to genuine sensory discomfort. Many autistic individuals have restricted diets due to texture or taste sensitivities and may also react strongly to certain environmental odors.
In young children, high-functioning autism symptoms may present as advanced vocabulary paired with unusually formal speech, a preference for solitary play or lining up toys, and difficulty with sharing or taking turns. Repetitive movements like toe walking, strong reactions to sensory input, and resistance to changes in routine are also common signs.
During the school years, high-functioning autism may show through strong skills in subjects like math or science, along with difficulty navigating group work and social norms. A child might want friends but struggle to connect, show deep knowledge of special interests, feel overwhelmed in noisy settings, and be described by teachers as “smart but different.”
During the teenage years, autistic individuals may become more aware of social differences and begin masking behaviors to fit in, often leading to anxiety around social pressures. They may struggle with abstract thinking, identity formation, and face a higher risk of mental health challenges like anxiety and depression.
Adults with high-functioning autism may thrive in technical or specialized careers but often face challenges with workplace social dynamics. They may prefer smaller social circles, benefit from late diagnosis and increased self-understanding, develop effective coping strategies over time, and still require accommodations to succeed in professional settings.
High-functioning autism comes with notable strengths:
Consider seeking an evaluation if you notice:
An autism diagnosis typically involves:
Professional team members may include:
ABA therapy is an evidence-based approach that helps individuals with high-functioning autism build social communication, develop coping strategies, strengthen academic and life skills, and improve emotional regulation for greater independence and daily success.
In-home ABA therapy offers key benefits like learning in familiar, natural environments, active family involvement and training, personalized treatment plans, and consistent support across daily settings to reinforce skills and progress.
Schools can support students by offering accommodations like sensory breaks, quiet spaces, written instructions, visual schedules, modified assignments and tests, social skills support, and transition planning to ease changes between activities or school stages.
Successful employment often depends on a quiet environment, clear written communication, and well-structured tasks. Flexible scheduling can also support productivity, especially when paired with understanding supervisors and coworkers who value different working styles.
High-functioning autism often blends remarkable strengths with unique challenges, making it easy to overlook or misunderstand. Recognizing what it looks like, whether it is social struggles, sensory sensitivities, or extraordinary talents, can help families provide the right support and build greater empathy. With early identification and personalized interventions, children and adults with high-functioning autism can thrive in school, relationships, and careers.
At Nurturing Nests Therapy Center, we specialize in helping families in Los Angeles navigate autism with confidence and care. If you think your child may be showing signs of high-functioning autism, our team is here to guide you through the next steps with compassion and expertise. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore the support options that fit your family’s needs.
Having high-functioning autism means excelling in certain areas while finding social situations exhausting and everyday sensory experiences overwhelming. Many also experience repetitive behaviors like stimming and other mental health conditions like anxiety.
Look for difficulty with eye contact, social cues, sensory sensitivities, and intense interests, combined with strong verbal skills. Unlike severe symptoms in other developmental disorders, these signs are often subtle.
If you’ve always felt “different,” struggle socially, have strong sensory preferences, and rely on routines, consider seeking an accurate diagnosis. Many adults discover they’re autistic when these patterns finally make sense.
Yes, many people with high-functioning autism live independent, successful lives with fulfilling careers and relationships. An official diagnosis can help access appropriate supports and accommodations.
Parenting an autistic child means learning to see the world through their eyes. What works for neurotypical kids doesn’t always work the same way, and using the wrong approach can lead to confusion or unnecessary stress for both parent and child. That’s why it’s so important to understand what not to do with an autistic child and recognize how their needs differ.
By shifting your mindset and approach, you can create a supportive environment that helps your child feel safe, valued, and understood. This guide will walk you through common mistakes to avoid and offer compassionate, effective alternatives that nurture growth and connection.
Before exploring what not to do with an autistic child, it’s important to understand what makes them unique. Autism spectrum disorder affects how children process sensory input, communicate, and interact socially. Because it is a spectrum, each child experiences it differently. Children with autism often have distinct strengths and challenges that call for flexible, individualized support.
Many children with autism share traits that affect their day-to-day life, including sensory sensitivities, a strong need for routine, and differences in social connection. When parents and family members understand these traits, they can respond with more empathy, reduce unnecessary stress, and create a supportive environment for growth.
One of the most damaging things you can do is allow your child to develop negative feelings about their autism diagnosis. Many kids pick up on adult conversations and reactions, internalizing the idea that something is “wrong” with them.
Instead of viewing autism as a problem to solve, frame it as a difference to understand and support. Use positive language when discussing your child’s unique traits. Say things like “Your brain works differently, and that’s what makes you special” rather than focusing on deficits or limitations.
This positive approach fosters trust and helps build self-confidence in your child. When children feel good about who they are, they’re more likely to advocate for themselves and engage in the learning process with enthusiasm.
Autistic children often struggle with complex, multi-step instructions. When you tell your child to “clean your room,” they may become overwhelmed because this involves many different tasks – picking up toys, making the bed, organizing clothes, and more.
Break down activities into simple, single-step instructions:
Use visual aids like picture schedules or written lists to help your child understand what’s expected. This approach reduces anxiety and sets your child up for success, leading to more positive behavior and increased independence.
Many autistic children depend on predictable routines to feel secure and function well. Sudden changes can trigger overwhelming anxiety, autism meltdowns, or challenging behaviors. This doesn’t mean your family can never be flexible, but it does mean changes need to be handled thoughtfully.
When routine changes are necessary:
A pilot study found that children who received preparation for routine changes showed 60% fewer behavioral challenges compared to those who experienced unexpected changes.
Comparing your autistic child to neurotypical children or even other children on the spectrum can be incredibly damaging. Each child develops at their own pace, and autism adds another layer of individual variation to this process.
Instead of focusing on what other children their age are doing, celebrate your child’s unique achievements. Did they make eye contact during a conversation today? Did they try a new food? Did they use words instead of behaviors to express their needs? These victories matter enormously in your child’s journey.
This approach helps create a positive relationship between you and your child while building their confidence to tackle new challenges.
Many autistic children think literally and struggle with metaphors, sarcasm, and idioms. When you say, “It’s raining cats and dogs,” your child might look outside expecting to see animals falling from the sky.
Use clear, concrete language in your daily communication. When you do use figurative expressions, take time to explain what they mean. This helps expand your child’s skills in understanding language while avoiding confusion and frustration.
When your child is struggling with challenging behaviors or having an autism meltdown, it’s natural to feel frustrated. However, matching their emotional intensity with your own anger rarely helps the situation and often makes things worse.
Instead:
Staying calm models emotional regulation for your child and helps them feel safe during difficult moments.
Stimming (repetitive movements or sounds) serves important functions for autistic children. These behaviors help them regulate their emotions, process sensory information, and cope with stress. Stopping stimming is like taking away a vital coping tool.
Only redirect stimming if it’s dangerous to your child or others. For example, if your child bangs their head on hard surfaces, offer a pillow or soft alternative. If they flap their hands and accidentally hit someone, teach them to stim in their own space.
Remember that stimming is a natural part of how autistic kids manage their environment and emotions.
While eye contact is valued in many cultures, it can be overwhelming or even painful for some autistic children. Sensory sensitivities can make looking directly at someone’s face feel intense or uncomfortable.
Focus on other signs of attention and engagement instead:
You can gently encourage eye contact without forcing it, and respect your child’s comfort level.
Autistic children may need more supervision than their neurotypical peers, depending on their individual needs and safety awareness. Some children have a tendency to wander or may not recognize dangerous situations.
Create safety plans that include:
The goal is to keep your child safe while still promoting appropriate independence.
Many autistic children have food sensitivities related to texture, taste, smell, or appearance. What looks like “picky eating” is often a genuine sensory challenge that can make certain foods feel overwhelming or even nauseating.
Work with your child’s preferences while gradually expanding their diet:
Progress for autistic children often looks different than traditional developmental milestones. Some skills may emerge suddenly after long periods of apparent stagnation. Others may develop in unexpected orders or ways.
Celebrate every achievement, no matter how small it may seem. Document progress through photos, videos, or journals to help you recognize growth over time. Seek additional support from professionals when needed, and remember that every child’s timeline is unique.
Autistic children thrive when they know what to expect. Create visual schedules, use consistent language, and establish predictable routines. This structure provides security and helps reduce anxiety throughout their daily lives.
Focus on rewarding good behavior rather than just correcting problems. Positive reinforcement is much more effective than traditional discipline methods for autistic kids. Praise specific behaviors: “I love how you used your words to ask for help,” rather than general praise like “good job.”
Every autistic child has unique interests and strengths. Use these as bridges to learning new skills. If your child loves trains, use train-themed math problems or social skills stories. This makes learning more engaging and meaningful.
Learn to recognize both verbal and non-verbal communication from your child. Many autistic children communicate through behavior, especially when they lack the words to express their needs. Understanding these signals helps you respond appropriately and avoid overwhelming situations.
Reduce overwhelming sensory input when possible. This might mean using softer lighting, reducing background noise, or providing noise-canceling headphones. Consider nature walks or other calming activities that help with sensory regulation.
Consider reaching out to autism professionals when:
Professional support can include behavior analysts, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and autism specialists who can provide targeted interventions and family coaching.
Supporting an autistic child requires patience, compassion, and a willingness to adjust your approach. By learning what not to do and focusing on positive, respectful strategies, you can build a strong foundation of trust and understanding. Every child deserves to feel seen, supported, and valued. With the right guidance and a nurturing environment, you can support your child’s well-being and help them move toward a bright future filled with growth and possibility.
At Nurturing Nests Therapy Center in Los Angeles, we are here to support your child’s well-being and your family’s journey every step of the way. Whether you are looking for parent coaching, individualized strategies, or compassionate experts who truly understand autism, our team is ready to help. Let us work together to build a brighter future for your child. Contact us today to get started.
Yes, many children with mild autism can live independent, fulfilling lives with appropriate support and understanding. They may need some accommodations for social situations and sensory challenges, but can succeed in school, careers, and relationships.
Avoid forcing eye contact, stopping their stimming behaviors, making sudden routine changes, using complex instructions, or comparing them to other children. Don’t overwhelm them with too many demands or react with anger during meltdowns.
Common triggers include sudden routine changes, overwhelming sensory input like loud sounds or bright lights, being forced to do uncomfortable things, and feeling misunderstood. Each child has unique triggers, so observe your specific child’s sensitivities.
Treat them with patience, respect, and understanding while providing clear expectations and consistent routines. Focus on their strengths, use positive reinforcement, and create a calm environment that accommodates their sensory needs.
