It is important to use the correct language when speaking about our loved ones. They are your son, daughter, grandchild, friend etc. The diagnosis did not suddenly change them into something different. They are your loved one with a disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Look at them as the person they are. Talk to them, play with them, and especially love them just the same. Some people with ASD may not communicate or behave the same way other people in society do. They may be looked at differently or misunderstood. Just because a person can not speak or flaps and rocks does not mean they can’t understand you. I have worked with some amazing children with autism that don’t “look” like they are listening or understand but they do! They will giggle or laugh at my silly joke. One time I mentioned to a mom that we needed to take the tablet away so we could continue with therapy. The child slapped me! She had no language skills and rocked and appeared to be in her own world. She knew exactly what I was saying. You may wonder if being slapped upset me? No, I love when these kids prove to us that they understand everything we say!