Scientists at the University of Rennes in France observed 23 autistic and 19 non-autistic children and found that autistic children might prefer spending time with cats instead of dogs. The “less intrusive glance” of cats may be why they feel more comfortable with cats, says Marine Grandgeorge who worked on the study.
Autistic kids and adults tend to do very well in socializing with cats, dogs, horses, etc. Interacting with animals brings out more advanced socialization skills, which they can then use, to some extent, with other humans.
People with Asperger's syndrome often tend to bond more easily with animals than they do with people. Medical research has shown that pets can be highly beneficial for children with Asperger's, as an animal gives affection unconditionally, is non-judgmental and provides emotional and physical therapy.
Summary. Research shows that autistic people prefer interactions with animals over humans and that 80% of autistic children have participated in pet therapy.
Cats help children with autism to improve their social skills by teaching them empathy and selflessness. Since pets don't have hidden motives or experience mood changes, they can help kids deal with emotions, to practice kindness, and tolerate others.
The benefits of pets for autistic children. Dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs are not just cute companions, they're also great for helping autistic children with their social and emotional development.
Butterfly. The butterfly symbol is one that signifies change and represents the diversity of people on the autism spectrum. It also symbolizes the full lives of the autistic community, and the beauty of the differences of autistic people.
ASD occurs in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. It is more than 4 times more common among boys than among girls.
Though autistic people may respond to emotions and social cues differently than neurotypical people, this does not mean they lack empathy. Just like neurotypical people, levels of empathy vary between autistic individuals.
Some low-quality studies have found that animals might help autistic people develop sensory, social skills and early communication skills. Animals might also help people manage problem behaviour and stress.
Many people with autism crave intimacy and love. But, they don't know how to achieve it in a romantic relationship. They can feel blind to everyday subtle social cues from their partner. This can cause conflict and hurt feelings.
Research from the University of Lincoln found that autistic children experience fewer meltdowns in the presence of a pet dog and their parents stress levels are significantly lowered, but we also see that dogs can make a difference to confidence levels, help reduce anxiety, improve communication and help families do ...
Adults with autism can be great parents or guardians. While a person with moderate or severe autism is unlikely to have the skills to raise a child, many people with high-functioning autism are ready, willing, and able, to take on the challenges of raising kids.
Best Cats For Autism
The ideal cat is outgoing, friendly and not fearful. Breeds known for these traits include the Ragdoll, Birman and Burmese. For the best results, start with a young kitten so they learn to like the unpredictable behaviour of children.
When you think about it, cats do exhibit some traits common in people on the autism spectrum. They can become obsessed with hunting or chasing certain things. They enjoy their alone time. They may get easily overstimulated or spooked by loud noises, bright lights, and even too much affection.
Children on the autism spectrum often keep crying as long as it seems to work for them. When it doesn't, they eventually quit. If they are upset about something, we want them to learn to handle their feelings in more powerful ways.
Analytical Thinking: People with an autism spectrum disorder think in a logically consistent way that leads to quick decision making. These thinkers can make decisions without experiencing the framing effect that inhibits most neurotypicals from making decisions without bias.
Main signs of autism
finding it hard to understand what others are thinking or feeling. getting very anxious about social situations. finding it hard to make friends or preferring to be on your own. seeming blunt, rude or not interested in others without meaning to.
Advances in diagnostic capabilities and greater understanding and awareness of autism spectrum disorder seem to be largely driving the increase, the Rutgers researchers said. But there's probably more to the story: Genetic factors, and perhaps some environmental ones, too, might also be contributing to the trend.
Defining the Traits and Behaviors of Level 1 Autism
Difficulty switching between activities. Problems with executive functioning which hinder independence. Atypical response to others in social situations. Difficulty initiating social interactions and maintaining reciprocity in social interaction.
Greens, blues, pinks, soft oranges and neutrals can be very comforting. Keeping the colors muted, these tones can quiet the mind and create calm.
On world autism awareness day, April 2nd, you may see plenty of blue being shown off to support autism awareness. The color blue's association to autism originated with the autism advocacy association known as Autism Speaks. Their “Light it Up Blue” campaign calls for people to wear blue to promote autism awareness.
Some organizations also use a blue heart as a symbol for autism, which conveys love and support for individuals with autism and their families.