EMPATHY OVER ISOLATION: Connecting with the Autistic Experience

“We live in the same world.” This simple yet powerful phrase encapsulates a crucial truth about children with autism, they are part of our world, not separate from it.

The Misconception: “Living in Their Own World”

There’s a common belief that children with autism “live in their own world.” This notion, although unintentional, creates a barrier to meaningful interaction and understanding.  It insinuates that there is an inability to connect with the realities of society.  What other people mean when they say they "live in their own world" is really just a stronger emphasis on imagination, which we can all relate to from our childhoods. As adults, there are moments when we can be thinking of our favorite song or a scene from a TV show.  While we may not verbalize or act out those thoughts, some children with autism delve into those thoughts and express them in the moment.

Contrary to popular belief, research has revealed that neurodiverse people actually have vivid imaginations.

However, their method of engaging in creative play differs from neurotypicals and can be challenging to describe.

The Reality: A Different Perception of the Same World

While children with autism have a unique way of perceiving the world, this is something that is true for everyone. Every person uses their own particular perspective to perceive the world around them. It is possible that individuals with autism will experience increased sensitivity, difficulties in social interactions, or a different mode of communication as a result of this experience. On the other hand, these distinctions do not imply that one is living in a very different reality. They are merely different interpretations of the human experience.

Friendship and Loneliness

According to a number of studies, children with autism spectrum disorder experience feelings of loneliness more frequently than normal children their age. The fact that these children are lonely leads one to believe that they are interested in forming relationships with other individuals, which contradicts the notion that they lack the desire to make new acquaintances. On the other hand,

a number of studies have demonstrated that children who have autism spectrum disorder have a totally different comprehension of what it means to be lonely and what it means to be friends.

The connection between being lonely and having friends is not as obvious for many of them as it is for others.

The Solution: Empathy and Engagement

The key to bridging the gap is empathy. Empathy involves stepping into another’s shoes, understanding their perspective, and responding with compassion. When we approach children with autism with empathy, we acknowledge their unique experiences while recognizing our similarities. As humans we all desire connection, even the most introverted individual desires to be known. Empathy says, "If I were them, I'd want a friend," so I'll try to engage with them in a way that they will appreciate.

Practical Steps:

1.    Listen and Observe: Pay attention to their communication cues, both verbal and non-verbal.

2.    Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding autism helps dispel myths and promotes inclusion.

3.    Create Inclusive Environments: Adapt spaces and activities to be more autism-friendly.

4.    Celebrate Diversity: Recognize and appreciate the unique qualities each child brings.

Children with autism do not exist in a parallel universe. They are right here with us, living life in their own special way. Our responsibility is to spread empathy, compassion, and inclusiveness - to see the world through the rich fabric of human diversity, not simply as we experience it.