21 Things to Not Say to an Autistic Child

Submitted by BrainPhysics Staff Sat 12/11/2010

A suggestion on how not to speak to an autistic child:

"A few weeks ago I shared a list of 21 things not to say to a person on the autism spectrum, and promised to suggest alternatives. Obviously the list of 21 things not to say are things that we ALL say out of frustration, and in the HEAT OF THE MOMENT AND WE JUST WANT TO SCREAM, and who can blame us? But here are some alternatives that I propose. Feel free to share your ideas:

Keep in mind these are all "in a perfect world" ideas. I'll never forget the first time I asked the speech therapist what I should say to Matthew when all he wanted to talk about cows, lights, fans and gates.

"It is inappropriate to talk about that right now. We are going to talk about something else."

Yeah, right.

*****

Here is the list of 21 things NOT to say to a person with an autism spectrum disorder, compiled with the help of members of my facebook autism forum:

1. Shame on you.

*It depends on the circumstance. Let's say your child bit his brother. Calmly say "no biting," and separate him from his brother.

2. How many times do I have to tell you?

*No alternatives. Just don't say it. Don't you hate it when people say that to you?"

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