The Autism Spectrum

 

The Autism Spectrum

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. It results from neurological differences that affect development in social interaction and communication.

Create ways for people on the autism spectrum to share their unique gifts and talents  

People with autism represent a wide diversity of ability, from individuals with intellectual disability and no speech, to highly verbal individuals with exceptional abilities in specific areas and challenges in others (informally described as having Asperger syndrome), and every combination in between. The common ground across the autism spectrum is the presence of limitations in communication and forming relationships. 

People on the autism spectrum often take comfort in repetitive behaviors and restricted interests because, by definition, they find communication and social interaction challenging.

Others may be confused when encountering these unusual behaviors, and that confusion can lead to rejection. Sunday school teachers, peers, and other adults have a vital role to play when it comes to accepting and including people on the autism spectrum in the community of faith.

Douglas Wood (left) and his father lead an outdoor worship service at Broadway Church of the Brethren in Virginia. Douglas, who has autism, is a  photographer for the church.

 

Promote social inclusion of children with autism

  • Teach rather than lecture or punish, if undesirable behavior arises
  • Share information about the disability with peers       
  • Train a peer buddy to model appropriate responses
  • Create ways for people with autism spectrum differences to share their unique gifts and talents  

 

Autism resources for faith communities

ADN's resources on autism: explore the links on this page.

Autism and Your Church: Nurturing the Spiritual Growth of People with Autism Spectrum Disorder, by Barbara J. Newman, revised edition (Faith Alive Christian Resources), is an excellent resource offering dozens of practical ways to welcome and include individuals with autism spectrum disorders into the full life of a congregation.
 
Autism and Faith: A Journey into Community​. 2008. A 52-page resource from the Elizabeth M. Boggs Center on Developmental Disabilities is available online​ in English or Spanish to download as a pdf.
 

Four training videos are available from CLC Network, presented by Barbara J. Newman. Order from CLC Network​.

  •  ​Autism: A Christian Response
  • Behavior Management Playing Field
  • Inclusion Tool Box: 52 Practical Ideas to Include Individuals with Disabilities. A version of this presentation is also available on YouTube.
  • Make Heaven a Noisier Place: Including Children with Disabilities
 

 Learn more

 Related topics

 Opening Doors

 Connections