Autism is a developmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others and their environment. In a nutshell, a person with autism views the world in a completely different way than those without it. In fact, a newer term frequently being used to describe the condition is “neurodiversity.”

According to recent research, the incidence of autism is on the rise. Numbers released by the CDC in December 2021 indicate one in 44 children are currently being diagnosed with the disorder. That number is up from one in 54 just a few years ago. And in 1996 the number was one in 10,000.

The degree of the disorder can vary widely. As noted by Laura D. Mead, an educational administrator at McLean Hospital’s Pathways Academy in Belmont, Massachusetts, “Some individuals with autism are not able to speak and may require intensive behavioral therapy to prevent self-harming behaviors. Other individuals with autism become college professors, code complex computer programs, or run Fortune 500 companies.” The fact that autism affects individuals so differently is the reason it is often referred to as autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

If you are the parent of a child with autism, you already have an idea where your child fits on the spectrum. You’ve likely been dealing with your child’s unique perspective of the world since they were toddlers.

If you haven’t had much experience with children on the autism spectrum, you might be at a loss as to how to engage with these kids when you encounter them. The main thing to remember is what Jesus taught us: Love one another. From 1 Corinthians 13 we learn that love is kind and patient. So, it follows that we should be kind and patient with everyone, especially those on the spectrum. That’s how the world will know we are believers—by our love (John 13:35).

Given the increased number of children with autism, we shouldn’t assume every hissy fit we see in public is a tantrum. It might be we’re witnessing an autism meltdown. Understand that once a child’s cortisol levels reach a certain point, they just aren’t able to control themselves. Rather than a disapproving stare or comment, try offering up a short prayer for peace and calm instead. And if you can do so safely, ask if there is anything you can do to help. You might turn out to be someone’s guardian angel that day.

One way some families are dealing with autism is with the help of a service dog. It’s an option that has had mixed results. But for some people on the spectrum, having one can make all the difference in the world. Specially trained autism service dogs help autistic individuals remain calm in stressful situations and can give them increased independence. A well-trained autism therapy dog can be a Godsend for many families.

A few years ago, I chanced across a photo of a boy lying on the floor with his head on a dog and reading a book. Behind him, his mother was sitting on the floor weeping. The caption explained that it was the boy’s first “normal” visit to a library. The visit was made possible by a service dog. As a dog lover and former educator, I was so moved I wrote a story about how that scene might have come about. The result (shameless self-promotion alert) is The Dog That Gave My Brother Words which will be released by End Game Press in April to coincide with Autism Awareness Month.

The Dog That Gave My Brother Words is an autism awareness book that will help children and adults become more familiar with typical autism behaviors. It’s also the story of a nonverbal autistic boy whose first meeting with a service dog leads to a break in the silence. The story leaves the reader with the satisfying sense that the boy and his dog are destined to do great things together. The back matter provides an extension to the subject by answering questions kids might ask and suggestions about how you can learn more. Overall, I think you’ll find it’s a great read that will promote learning and understanding.

For more information on autism contact the Autism Society at AutismSociety.org.

Post by Wendy Hinote Lanier

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