Fact or Myth
All children with autism have the same behaviors and characteristics.
Myth: Every child with autism is different.
Some children with autism may communicate using pictures, gestures, or communication devices.
Fact: What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)?
Bright lights, loud sounds, and certain textures may overwhelm a child with autism.
Fact: What is sensory sensitivity?
Children with autism can learn, participate, and succeed in school.
Fact: What is inclusive education?
A meltdown is always a tantrum intended to get attention.
Myth: A meltdown may be an involuntary response to overwhelming emotions or sensory input
Autism is a neurological and developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior.
Fact: What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Every child with autism is nonverbal.
Myth: Some children speak, some use limited speech, and others communicate without spoken words.
A child covering their ears is always misbehaving.
Myth: They may be trying to protect themselves from overwhelming sounds.
All children with autism have intellectual disabilities
Myth: Intelligence and learning abilities vary among autistic individuals.
A meltdown is always a tantrum intended to get attention.
Myth: A meltdown may be an involuntary response to overwhelming emotions or sensory input.
Children with autism cannot show love or affection
Myth: Children with autism can love and form meaningful relationships.
A child who does not make eye contact is automatically being disrespectful.
Myth: Eye contact can be uncomfortable or difficult for some autistic children.
Some children with autism enjoy repetitive movements such as rocking, hand-flapping, or spinning.
Fact: What is stimming?
Visual schedules can help children understand daily classroom routines.
Fact: What are visual supports?
Children with autism may have difficulty understanding social cues, facial expressions, or body language.
Fact: What are social communication differences?
Autism is called a spectrum because individuals have different strengths, challenges, and support needs.
Fact: What is the autism spectrum?
Giving a child extra time to process a question can help them respond.
Fact: What is processing time?
Children with autism should be forced to participate in loud activities to overcome sensory challenges.
Myth: Sensory needs should be respected and appropriate accommodations provided.
Children with autism cannot participate in group activities.
Myth: With appropriate supports, many children participate successfully in groups.
A child who plays alone does not want friends.
Myth: Some children enjoy independent play but still want friendships and connections.
Autism can be cured with the right diet or medication
Myth: Autism is not an illness that needs to be cured.
A child who does not speak cannot understand what is being said.
Myth: Understanding language and speaking are different skills.
Headphones, sensory breaks, and quiet spaces can help children manage sensory overload.
Fact: What are sensory supports?
Breaking assignments into smaller steps can help a child complete classroom tasks.
Fact: What is task analysis?
Repetitive behaviors should always be stopped immediately.
Myth: Stimming can be a healthy form of self-regulation unless it creates a safety concern.