FAQautism

Occasionally one of my friends with autism will just suddenly burst out in graphic language. These unexpected and embarrassing moments always seem to happen when we are in a public place surrounded by strangers who are not aware that my friend has special needs. Let’s look at some preventative measures for inappropriate language.

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1. WATCH YOUR WORDS. Sometimes our friends with autism are unable to distinguish between words they can use when talking to family at home and words that are not acceptable in public settings. Because this distinction is difficult – if not impossible – it might be a good rule of thumb to avoid using any words at home that cannot also be said in the earshot of strangers in stores, at school, or on the job. To be more specific, that means no family member may ever utter a word or phrase when on the phone, when hitting their thumb with a hammer, or even in the privacy of their own room. Many individuals with autism have big ears and long memories.

2. MONITOR INPUT. Sometimes we forget that television, radio, movies, and songs are filled with inappropriate language. I have a copy of a Dennis the Menace cartoon. Dennis is characteristically sitting in the corner and complaining to his friend Joey, saying, “I don’t get it. They laughed when they heard those words on t.v.!” Many of my friends with autism – kids, teens, and adults – latch on to single words or short phrases that are just drifting in the air from television, then blurt them out at the most inappropriate times. Monitor your sound environment. Listen to the words and phrases in the air in your home or school or jobsite with a discerning ear.

3. NON-VERBAL INDIVIDUALS. Sometimes non-verbal individuals with autism begin speaking suddenly. One of my non-verbal students surprised us all when she started speaking words and phrases when she was ten years old. Unfortunately, her first words were phrases she had heard at home from her brothers, older teens who frequently used crude language.

TIP FOR THE DAY: It really comes down to watching every word your friend with autism because those words may well be repeated in public.

NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me a confidential email at talk@FAQautism.com with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com

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