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People who are neurodiverse, including those who have autism or a learning difficulty or disability, nearly always have difficulty with interaction, communication and language.
In the community, they may present differently and will need time to settle into a space or work out what it is they want to say or do.
We can all help by understanding and following some simple guidance.
Top tips…
At all times, give time and space, don’t rush and be patient
Use non-complex language as much as you can because people experience disordered communication as part of their condition
Use a word (or the person’s name if you know it) to get attention before asking a question or talking. Pause between that initial word and the instruction or question
Don’t use idioms or sayings, but use literal language as far as possible
Some may have a communication device, a symbol book or card to refer to. Keep an eye out for this and see if it is a useful way of communicating with them
People with these conditions can experience overload and anxiety. If they appear agitated or anxious or are becoming upset, reduce any communication you are having with them. Do not bombard them with further questions or instructions. Perhaps just guide them using gesture to a quieter space to reduce visual or other demands
Processing time, that is the time taken to hear, process, understand and act upon what may be said, will take longer than typical so allow them time to respond even if the length of the pause seems unnatural
Don’t be put off by untypical language or words but accept the communication that comes forward as far as you can and clarify what you think they said or mean without correcting what they say
Be guided by anyone accompanying them if they offer advice but do not ignore or bypass the individual with SEND in front of you who is trying to interact or communicate with you
Don’t move into their space or get to close as this may raise their anxiety and make it more difficult for them to interact. Equally, do not touch them as some people are very averse to physical touch no matter how light or well-meaning it may seem to you
Eye contact – don’t be put off if they won’t / don’t look at you. That may be the only way they can tolerate communicating with a stranger or manage their anxiety
If you are finding the situation a little frustrating, try not to show it as this will very likely make the person more anxious themselves
Some neurodiverse people have particular interests which they are keen to talk about. This may help to reduce their anxiety
Children with SEND or autism may well display some difficult behaviour; they are not “naughty” but rather struggling to make sense of what is happening at that moment. Please do not stare, but quietly ask the person accompanying them if there is anything you can do to support the situation
Be patient.
Remain calm.
Seek to understand.
Written by Adrian Carver, Downs SEND Consultancy Ltd
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