Talking to your child’s class about autism may or may not be something high on your priority list. There can also be benefits through education and awareness. By explaining about a child’s differences and allowing children to explore the fact that everyone is different, you may find that the children in the class are more accepting and patient with your child.The word autism does not have to be used. Here are a few tips for talking to your child’s class:

• If your child is able to, allow him/her to be a part of the talk. This is a good way to teach him/her to advocate for themselves. Knowing what they do that maybe they wish they did not or explaining how they feel sometimes could be helpful to the other students.
• Use a children’s book to help explain some of the differences they may notice. Here are a few of my favorites:
• Explain how your child is similar to the other students. What does your child like to eat, watch on TV, play with, favorite color, favorite things to do, etc.
• By being open about differences and answering any questions the children may have, I have seen more acceptance, understanding, and patience from peers. If you choose not to talk to your child’s class, you could request that the teacher talk about differences between children and how everyone is unique. This could be a way to talk about differences without singling your child out.I have had students ask before “Why doesn’t he do this?” or “Why does he do that?” I find that being open and trying to answer those questions helps the children to have a better understanding. Sometimes, that answer is “he is still learning how to _______.” and sometimes a blanket statement of “I don’t know” may be appropriate.