What is Autism?

Autism is a natural form of neurodiversity. Autistic people experience the world in unique and valuable ways that shape how they communicate, sense their environment, think, and connect with others. Autism is not something to be “fixed” it is an integral part of identity.

“If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.”
— Dr. Stephen Shore

A spectrum of experiences

Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental difference. It is called a spectrum because no two autistic people are the same. Each person has their own combination of strengths, preferences, and challenges.

Some autistic people may:

• Communicate in a direct or literal way
• Find comfort and joy in routines or focused interests
• Experience the senses (sound, light, touch, taste, smell) more strongly or less strongly than others
• Connect socially in authentic ways that don’t always match non-autistic expectations

Strengths and contributions

Autistic people bring extraordinary value to families, schools, workplaces, and communities. Common strengths include:

• Strong focus and dedication
• Honesty and authenticity
• Creativity and innovative thinking
• Attention to detail and unique perspectives

Key terms to know

• Neurodiversity: The understanding that all brains are different, and those differences are natural and valuable.
• Autism spectrum: A broad range of autistic experiences—there is no single way to “be autistic.”
• Identity-first language (“autistic person”): Many in the community prefer this wording as it recognises autism as part of who they are.

In summary

Autism is one of many ways of being human. By recognising and respecting autistic perspectives, we create communities that are more inclusive, more understanding, and more enriched by diversity.