What is autism?
Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) is a lifelong developmental difference that influences how a child communicates, interacts, and experiences the world. Every autistic child is unique—some may need significant support, while others thrive with subtle adaptations. You might notice challenges with social cues, sensory sensitivities (like discomfort with loud noises or textures), or a strong preference for routines.
Recognising these traits early and offering tailored support—such as clear communication, sensory-friendly spaces, and predictable routines—can make a profound difference. For a deeper understanding, our film Autism Spectrum Condition in Children Information Film offers practical guidance on how to identify and nurture the strengths of autistic children, helping them flourish in their own remarkable way.
How can I recognise the symptoms of Autism?
To identify potential signs of autism in a child, observe any difficulties they may have with social communication and interaction, along with repetitive or restricted behaviors, interests, or activities. These signs can include trouble maintaining eye contact, struggles with nonverbal cues, or challenges interpreting social situations. Additionally, you might notice repetitive movements, highly focused interests, or heightened sensitivity to sensory input.
For more information, watch:
Video: How to recognise and support an autistic child
Are there other conditions that might affect Autistic children?
Yes. Many autistic children have additional medical or mental health conditions alongside autism, often called co-occurring conditions or comorbidities. These can include well-known challenges like ADHD and epilepsy, as well as less familiar ones such as alexithymia (difficulty identifying emotions), echolalia (repeating words or phrases), and dysgraphia (trouble with writing). Identifying and supporting these co-occurring conditions is key to understanding each child’s needs and helping them thrive.
For more information watch our film:
Autism and co-existing conditions
What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity refers to the natural differences in how human brains work, including how people think, learn, and behave. It highlights that there is no single 'correct' way for a brain to function and that neurological differences are a normal and important part of human diversity. According to the National Autistic Society, autism and other neurodivergent conditions are simply variations in brain wiring—not diseases that need to be fixed.
Find out more here:
What is neurodiversity?
What's the difference between Aspergers, ASC, ASD and Autism?
You may hear different terms for autism, including:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – the clinical diagnosis used by doctors.
- Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) – a term some prefer as it avoids the word ‘disorder’.
- Asperger’s syndrome – an older term sometimes used to describe autistic people with average or higher intelligence, though it’s no longer a separate diagnosis.
I'm a teacher, how can I help my autistic students?
Teachers can best support autistic students by using clear, direct communication, visual supports, and predictable routines while being mindful of sensory sensitivities and strategies for managing distress. Equally important is cultivating an inclusive classroom environment that values neurodiversity and adapts to each student’s unique needs.
For more information and Tips for Teachers, watch our film:
Autism: Tips for Teachers
I'm a parent and I think my child is autistic
Parenting an autistic child isn't about fixing differences: it's about nurturing their extraordinary way of experiencing the world. By creating predictable routines and clear communication at home, you provide the safety net that lets your child's unique abilities soar. Those intense interests? They're superpowers in disguise—gateways to incredible focus, innovative thinking, and expertise that can change how we all see the world.
To find out more from the real-life experiences of parents who have been there, try watching:
Dan & Charlie: 5 years on, life on the Autism Spectrum
Damien - Autism, expectations and adapting
Raising a child with autism: Carrie and David
Usman and the quest for happiness
Your home can be a sensory sanctuary where overload transforms into comfort, where stimming isn't discouraged but understood as self-regulation. Those moments of overwhelm become opportunities for connection when met with patient understanding. What outsiders might call 'quirks' are often your child's brilliant coping strategies—their authentic way of navigating a world not designed for their magnificent mind. But there's no denying that it can be challenging - find out more in our films:
Never Lose Hope, Fathers of children with Autism
Stigma and discrimination and how to support children
What's it like being autistic?
Autism is a unique way of experiencing life—marked by sensory intensity, deep passions, and authentic ways of connecting. While everyday environments can feel overwhelming, these differences also bring extraordinary strengths: attention to detail, innovative thinking, and unwavering honesty. To better understand these lived experiences, here are powerful films that showcase autistic perspectives in their full complexity, brilliance and difficulty.
Growing up with Autism: Tylan
My Voice Matters
Can girls be autistic?
Yes, autism absolutely affects girls and women too. While diagnoses have historically focused on males, we now know autism manifests differently across genders—often more subtly in girls, leading to frequent underdiagnosis. In our Podcast Prof. Barry Carpenter speaks to Alis Rocca about why girls and women have historically been underdiagnosed, and how to fix it.
Barry Carpenter: Girls and Autism
Is it important to get a diagnosis?
Pursuing an autism diagnosis for your child opens doors to deeper understanding, tailored support, and meaningful growth. This important step equips you to champion their needs with confidence, connect them with early interventions, and cultivate an environment where they can flourish.
At Nip in the Bud we strongly advocate for early diagnosis, as it plays a vital role in unlocking timely support and improving long-term outcomes. Recognizing and embracing your child’s neurodivergence—while securing the right resources—lays the foundation for their confidence, joy, and lifelong achievement. Your proactive love and advocacy become the compass that guides their journey.
To find out more:
