Girls with autism are motivated by forming friendships. They actively seek out social interactions with other people and can hold reciprocal conversations. While boys with autism tend to explode when things go wrong, girls are more likely to implode and internalise problems.
As headteacher of a school for girls with communication and interaction difficulties, I am passionate about raising awareness about girls with autism. So what can you do to support these pupils?
Here are my tips:
- Help them to manage their anxiety
Anxiety is ever-present for girls on the spectrum. Help them to see the link between behaviour and anxiety. Does their anxiety make them cry or have massive meltdowns?