Autism Is One Part of a Whole Person

Without a doubt, an autism  diagnosis can influence a person’s in a variety of ways. Just like any other piece of someone’s identity, having autism shapes the hills and valleys of a person’s life. However, what is often missed when it comes to people with disabilities, whether they are intellectual disabilities or physical ones, is that their disability is only a part of who they are.

A crucial part of supporting someone with autism, regardless of when, how or if they were diagnosed, is not placing a disproportionate amount of importance or focus on their autism. Having autism shapes who someone is and how they experience the world, but it is only one part of a whole person.

This is especially important for children with autism. Some of the most helpful tools that any child can receive are self-expression, exploration different activities, interests, social, and educational opportunities. Giving any child as well as an autistic child the chance to explore the world and develop their identity shows them from a young age that they are a nuanced, whole person. When a child with autism has the chance to discover themselves, they can feel empowered to assert their personhood as they age and gain more independence.

Part of providing support and accommodations for someone who has autism is allowing them to be their whole self, accepting their nuanced personality. Instead of erasing someone’s autism or other parts of who they are, those without autism must give autistic people the space to live every part of themselves.