LARRAPY Convos – Blog 26 - “What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder—and How Do You Support It?”

“Why does my child struggle to connect?”

“Why do I feel different, like the world doesn’t make sense to me?”

“Why do certain sounds, lights, or changes overwhelm me so easily?”

These are common experiences for individuals living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Autism is not a disease to be cured—it’s a neurological difference that affects how people perceive and interact with the world.

When understood with compassion, ASD doesn’t have to be feared or hidden. It can be embraced—and those living with it can thrive in relationships, faith, and purpose.

🧠 What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects:

• Social communication and interaction

• Sensory processing

• Behavioral patterns (repetitive or highly focused interests)

It’s called a “spectrum” because the intensity of symptoms and support needs vary widely—from highly verbal and independent to non-speaking with intensive care needs.

🔍 Common Signs of Autism (in Children & Adults)

• Difficulty with social cues (eye contact, facial expressions)

• Delayed language or unusual speech patterns (echolalia, monotone, scripting)

• Intense focus on specific topics or hobbies

• Resistance to change or transitions

• Sensory sensitivities (sounds, textures, lights)

• Repetitive movements (stimming like rocking, flapping, tapping)

• Struggles with unspoken rules or group interactions

⚠️ Note: Not every autistic person has all these traits. And having some traits doesn’t mean someone is autistic.

👶🏽 When Do Signs of Autism Show Up?

Most signs appear in early childhood—often before age 3. However, many adults go undiagnosed, especially women and people of color, who may “mask” symptoms to fit social expectations.

Diagnosis brings clarity, not a label—and it opens the door to understanding and support.

🧩 What Causes Autism?

• Genetics – Autism often runs in families

• Brain development differences – especially in areas related to language, empathy, and sensory processing

• Environmental factors – Premature birth, prenatal health conditions

• Autism is not caused by vaccines, bad parenting, or spiritual punishment

🔁 How Is Autism “Resolved”?

Let’s be clear: Autism is not something to fix. It’s a lifelong neurotype.

The goal is not to “cure” autism, but to support the individual in managing challenges, developing strengths, and living a meaningful life.

🛠 Supporting Someone with Autism: Clinically & Practically

✅ Early Intervention (for children)

• Speech therapy

• Occupational therapy (OT)

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), with care and consent

• Social skills groups

✅ Support for Teens and Adults

• Life skills coaching

• Therapy focused on emotional regulation

• Workplace accommodations

• Community inclusion and peer support

• Sensory-friendly environments

✅ Home and Family Strategies

• Clear structure and predictable routines

• Visual supports (schedules, timers, charts)

• Reduce sensory overload when possible

• Celebrate strengths—don’t just manage weaknesses

🙏 Spiritual Perspective on Autism

God is the author of all neurodiversity.Autistic individuals are not broken—they are beautifully different.

“We are all parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.” – Romans 12:5“I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” – Psalm 139:14

Spiritually, here’s how we respond:

• Create inclusive churches and ministries

• Avoid shaming what we don’t understand

• See past behavior into the heart

• Teach biblical truth in visual, structured, and literal ways

• Encourage faith through routine and connection—not just emotion

💬 If You Are Autistic (Or Suspect You Are)

You are not too much.You are not less.You are not an accident.

You may process the world differently—but your life holds deep purpose and divine value.

God does not require “typical” behavior to dwell within someone. He looks at the heart.

🕊 Final Word: Autism Needs Understanding, Not Fixing

Autism isn’t a spiritual deficit—it’s a different way of experiencing God’s creation.Our job isn’t to erase difference, but to embrace dignity.Whether you're a parent, pastor, educator, or adult on the spectrum—God has equipped you to love and lead with compassion, clarity, and courage.

🙏 A Prayer for the Autism Community

“God, thank You for creating every mind with purpose. Help me see people through Your eyes—without judgment, without fear. Strengthen those living with autism and surround them with love and wisdom. Show me how to be part of the solution. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”