One area that is an assumption that all autists experience, is changes to routines.
My J has never had a problem with a major change in routine.
We have moved several times around the country, and each time he was happy and content, and as he walked into the new house he would wander around, watch his bed and other items being put into his new bedroom, and just accept he was sleeping there now.
Another classic assumption is Thomas the Tank Engine. The amount of times I've been asked if he loves the programme. According to some of the leading experts I meet out in public, who tell me how they know all about autism, despite not having direct experience of it - J "must love it". In fact J has never shown any interest in the programme. He is not enamoured by it at all. The National Autistic Society even produced a DVD titled 'Transporters'. I received a copy of it a few years ago. Again J had no interest.
Eye contact. J is able, and comfortable to give eye contact. Okay, he does'nt engage in lengthy bouts of it, but that is due to his lack of conversational skills ;whereas neurotypical people tend to look at each other as they talk.
He looks at my face when requesting something, and he studies my face when he is trying to work out my emotion.Again he doesn't understand other peoples feelings, but he still tries to observe me.
Socialising. J does not have appropriate social skills, that is true, but he enjoys company for the majority of the time, and appears happy to be around others - by the way he laughs, giggles, dances, and sings.
Our special children are individual and unique. The 'umbrella' term is useful and informative, but every area does not apply to every autist. That is what makes it so challenging, and very rewarding.
