Community Division
Autism_Spectrum_ASD_Pathway_Young_Persons_Leaflet_PIAG_225 (667kB)
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
ASD is a life-long condition. It affects people in different ways and at different times.
When you know you have ASD, you can find out what might be hard for you and what can help you.
People can’t tell you have ASD just looking at you.
Some things can be harder with ASD
- Knowing how to chat to people
- Knowing how to make and keep friends
- Knowing when people are bored of a talking about a subject or have a different interest
- Using and reading body language & facial expressions
- Knowing when people are joking and not being mean
- Expressing feelings
- Knowing about other people’s thoughts and emotions
- Tolerating noises, smells and textures
- Changes e.g. new people or a change in a daily plan
- Taking language literally
It does not mean you will never be able to figure these things out, you just may need help to learn and develop your communication style.
What are the positives?
People with ASD have different strengths. Here are some positives we have seen working with young people who have ASD:
- Interesting
- Creative
- Unique
- Funny
- Clever
- Honest
- Leaders
- Logical
- Detailed
- Inspiring
- Driven
- Passionate
- Sensitive
Successful people with ASD
This leaflet only gives general information. You must always discuss the individual treatment of your child with the appropriate member of staff. Do not rely on this leaflet alone for information about your child’s treatment.
This information can be made available in other languages and formats if requested.
Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
PIAG: 227