Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is frequently misunderstood with people focusing more on facing the challenges, rather than the many strengths it brings. While, an autistic individual may face challenges, they may also have autistic traits such as excellent long-term memory, visual and observational skills among several.
Some autistics have a unique set of skills and abilities, which once determined, can greatly improve yours and your child’s life. Here are some examples of strengths associated with autism:
Attention to detail
An autistic individual may be attuned to details. They may have a very good eye for details which helps them focus on a task, and accomplish it quicker. A lot of the individuals are able to focus on the intricate details of something, even noticing errors that would typically be missed.
Deep focus
Sometimes an autistic can concentrate for extended periods of time on reading, painting, and writing etc. Their ability to hyper-focus on areas of interest can lead them to lose track of time, as well as their surroundings.
Excellent long-term memory
An autistic individual may have excellent long-term, as well as rote memory skills. They may even remember information they encountered weeks prior. At times, they can also recall conversations from movies, number plates and may even remember something you said to them weeks ago!
Integrity/ honesty/loyalty
Some autistics tend to cling to truthfulness, they usually say what they mean. While their honesty can sometimes be considered rude, it is important to understand that they do not have the intention to hurt, but they just want to communicate truthfully.
Creativity/distinctive imagination
Kids on the spectrum may also display a deep sense of creativity and imagination. They have the ability to think outside the box, and can produce some stunning art that is imaginative.
Visual skills
Some autistics may even have strong visual skills due to their ability to look at parts of a whole and focus on small details and patterns.
In-depth knowledge
As a result of their special interests and strong focus, some autistics can also have in-depth knowledge in a particular area. They can talk endlessly about subjects that had caught their interest.
Observational skills
Autistics may pay keen attention to detail. For them, when it comes to observational skills, there is a listen, learn, look approach to learning. Autistic children observe an activity deeply and end up performing the same task well.
Unique thought processes/innovative solutions
Autistic individuals’ minds are wired differently, and they may have an extreme imagination. You can always count on an autistic to bring brilliant concepts and new ways of solving a dilemma.
It is necessary that these strengths and abilities of an autistic are utilised properly as it will compensate for the deficits. Not only will these strengths motivate them, but they will also help them in leading a more productive and fulfilling life.
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