Positive Traits of Autism

One of the things I have noticed with children on the spectrum is that they have a great ability to be different. They are not afraid to be who they are meant to be. After noticing the differences in our children, I decided to focus on those differences that make life with autism easier for the caregivers. What is it about your child that makes raising them easier? What are the positive traits of autism that you have experienced?

Listing of Positive Traits of Autism

There are many positive traits of autism, but not every child displays these characteristics. In our household, some of the positives include:

Kindness

Many children on the spectrum display unusual kindness and gentleness. Jack-Jack is incredibly kind all the time. He never thinks of being mean to other people or says mean things to anyone. However, he gets extremely upset when others are upset. He is a perfect example of being kind to one another. 

We often tell people that Jack-Jack’s brain works differently, but ironically, studies have shown that the brain of bullies shows that they enjoy inflicting pain on others. So maybe Jack-Jack’s brain works better in this area.

Telling the Truth

Sometimes Jack-Jack doesn’t tell the truth. But he rarely out and out lies. He seems to understand that saying mean things to people even if it is the truth isn’t kind. We have talked about lying and telling the truth.

If Jack-Jack tells you that you are pretty, you can be sure that he thinks you are pretty. If he tells you he loves you, he really does. He would not say something that wasn’t true.

Arguing

Jack-Jack doesn’t argue with people or try to prove he is right about something. He doesn’t care about being right and wrong. He cares about people and their feelings. Imagine caring about making people happy. When you argue, you only care about yourself and being correct.

Attention to Detail

If you ask Jack-Jack to put 100 M&M’s in a bowl, you can be sure he will place exactly 100 M&M’s in the bowl. If you tell him to fill a bowl with candy, it will be full. When shopping for a toy in the store, he wants the toy to look exactly like the movie version.  He has the brainpower to notice little details.

Being drawn to people who need something

Jack-Jack is drawn to people who are sad or need a hug. He seems to have a sense of who has needs and it is his standard to make sure people are happy. When he spreads love, he makes sure those that are sad become happy.

He spends time on the things that make him happy

My son doesn’t spend unnecessary time on things that he “thinks” need to be done. He spends his time on the things that bring him joy, make others happy, and make him feel centered – whether it is jumping, laughing, thinking about happy things, or resting.

He doesn’t care what other people think of him

Jack-Jack dances with abandon. He hugs other people. He talks to strangers. Additionally, he doesn’t care if people like him or think he is crazy. He lives his life on his own terms without caring what people think of him. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to quit worrying about “succeeding” or “failing.” Furthermore, he doesn’t dress to impress. He doesn’t keep up with what other people think. There is no looking at labels or buying shoes because someone else has them.

He Lives a Simple Life

Spending time with people, laughing, playing, and living are all done simply. He just enjoys a simple life. He is one of the most uncomplicated people we know.

What are the qualities of your child that are amazing to you? How do encourage their great qualities? Studies show that if you nurture the good attributes of a person, you can help them be successful. If your child doesn’t excel at golf, but they are passionate about golf, how can you help them get better? How can you help your child walk into their destiny without crushing their spirit? Study your child. Observe the qualities that they excel at. Pray and ask Holy Spirit to give you the knowledge and wisdom to help your child succeed.

MORE AUTISM POSTS:

Understanding Autism

Before Autism: The Life I took for Granted