Signs Autism (Children & Adults)

When people think about our senses, they usually think of the familiar five: sight, hearing, touch, taste and smell. Some people may also have heard of the vestibular system (balance) or proprioception (our awareness of where our body is in space). However, there is another incredibly important sense that often goes unnoticed: interoception. Interoception is your brain's ability to notice, interpret and respond to signals coming from inside your body. It helps you understand

“I know it only takes five minutes.” “I don't understand why I can't just do it.” “Everyone else seems to manage these things without thinking.” These are comments we hear every day from both autistic people and people with ADHD. Tasks that appear simple from the outside—getting dressed, making a phone call, replying to an email, having a shower or putting the washing away—can feel surprisingly difficult to begin or complete. This isn't laziness, a lack of motivation or simpl

Have you ever wondered why one person can happily sit in a noisy café while another feels completely overwhelmed within minutes? Or why a child refuses to wear certain clothes, covers their ears at the sound of a hand dryer, constantly chews on their sleeves, or seems to seek out movement all day long? These experiences are often linked to sensory processing differences, which are common in both autistic individuals and those with ADHD. Sensory processing is not simply about

Have you ever found yourself wanting to start something but feeling completely unable to begin? Or perhaps you've finally settled into an activity, only to discover that stopping feels just as difficult? Many autistic children, young people and adults describe exactly this experience. It can be confusing, frustrating and is often misunderstood by others as laziness, avoidance or a lack of motivation. In reality, many autistic people experience something known as autistic iner

Many autistic children, young people and adults experience some degree of demand avoidance. Whilst this can sometimes be described using the term Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), it is important to understand what this means, what the current evidence tells us, and how professionals approach assessment and support. What is Demand Avoidance? Demand avoidance refers to difficulties engaging with everyday expectations, requests, responsibilities or tasks. These demands may c

Exploring the diverse experiences of neurodivergence can be a rich and rewarding journey, particularly when you recognise that you or a loved one may embody traits associated with both autism and ADHD. This unique combination, often called AuDHD, is increasingly acknowledged for its distinctive characteristics and the tailored support it deserves. Gaining insight into this condition is essential for finding the appropriate assessments and interventions that can truly enhance

Understanding how our minds work can sometimes feel like trying to solve a complex puzzle. For many, especially those who suspect they or their children might be neurodivergent, grasping the concept of executive functions is a crucial step towards better self-awareness and improved daily living. Executive functions are the mental skills that help us plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and juggle multiple tasks successfully. When these skills are challenged, life can

Many people wonder if they have autism, ADHD, or both. These two conditions share some traits but also have clear differences. Understanding how they compare and overlap can help people make sense of their experiences. This post explains key differences and similarities between autism and ADHD, why they often occur together, and why a combined assessment can be helpful. Diagram explaining neurodiversity Attention versus processing differences One of the main ways autism and A

What is Masking and Why Does it Matter? Masking is when a child hides or suppresses behaviours and feelings that might seem different or challenging. At school, many children learn to mask to fit in with peers and meet expectations. For example, a girl with ADHD might focus intensely to avoid drawing attention, or a child with autism might copy others’ social behaviours to blend in. Masking takes a lot of effort. It’s like wearing a mask that covers how they really feel or th

In today’s professional world, embracing diversity means more than just recognising different cultures or backgrounds. It also means understanding and valuing the unique ways our brains work. Neurodiversity is about recognising that people think, learn, and process information differently. This includes individuals with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurological variations. When workplaces foster neurodiversity inclusion, they create environments where everyone can thrive

Today I had a really interesting conversation with a client about his experience of face blindness. He explained that when meeting new people, it can take him a long time to process all their features. Instead of recognising a face straightaway, he begins by noticing a person’s mannerisms, then tone of voice, then gradually moves from the outside of the body inwards, with the face itself being the last feature he is able to identify. I knew that this was relatively common in

Situational mutism is an anxiety-based communication difference . A child can speak in familiar, low-pressure settings but becomes unable to speak in more demanding environments. This may look like: Talking confidently at home but not at school. Whispering or mouthing words instead of speaking. Freezing when asked a question. Communicating only with a “safe person”. Avoiding situations where talking may be expected. Importantly, this is not a choice. The child typically want

Secondary school support for students with neurodiversity When a child is autistic, or is going through the assessment process, it is vital that the adults supporting them in school and at home understand their needs. High-quality, evidence-based training helps staff and parents feel confident in supporting communication, emotional regulation, sensory processing, and learning. Below is an overview of reputable local training options across Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, an

If you observe that your child is developing differently from other children, it can be overwhelming to decide what steps to take. Whether your child has just been diagnosed with a neurodiverse condition or you’re beginning to worry about their communication or development, it's beneficial to understand the situation and know where to seek support. 🌱 Each Child Grows Uniquely Children develop and learn at their own pace. Some may begin walking, talking, or socialising sooner

Introduction We want to share our recommendations in supporting young people in understanding ADHD, Autism, and other neurodivergent experiences. By utilising visuals, videos, and acknowledging the successes that neurodiverse individuals can achieve in daily life, these insights can make parents and young people feel more informed and supported. By highlighting various resources, we can break down barriers and expand awareness. Understanding ADHD What is ADHD? ADHD stands

Understanding autism is a crucial step for many families and individuals seeking clarity about their experiences. Early and accurate autism assessments can make a significant difference in the lives of children and adults alike. These assessments provide a clear understanding of neurodivergence, enabling tailored support and interventions that improve quality of life. This article explores why timely and precise autism assessments matter, what they involve, and how to access

What is Executive Functioning? Think of executive functioning as the brain’s management system. It enables us to plan our day, stay focused on tasks, remember important information, and balance multiple responsibilities. Without these skills, carrying out even simple daily activities could become overwhelming. Key Components of Executive Functioning Working Memory : This is our ability to hold and process information for short periods. For instance, being able to remember a p

Navigating the world of autism can be challenging, particularly when it comes to understanding behaviours like Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and autistic demand avoidance. Confusion often arises because both involve a resistance to demands. However, the reasons behind this resistance are quite different. This post aims to clarify these differences, explore their similarities, and equip caregivers with practical strategies to support individuals exhibiting these behaviou

Understanding other people’s thoughts, feelings, and intentions, often called perspective taking, is a vital part of how we connect and communicate with others. For many autistic children, young people, and adults, perspective taking can present specific challenges. These challenges do not stem from a lack of empathy or care but often reflect differences in how social information is processed. What is Perspective Taking? Perspective taking involves the ability to “step into s

Living with both Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can make daily life unique and sometimes challenging. This combination, known as AuDHD, is gaining recognition in the mental health community. By understanding how these two conditions work together, individuals and their families can develop better strategies for everyday living. What is AuDHD? AuDHD refers to the coexistence of autism and ADHD in an individual. Each condition