Supporting Children with Autism in Early Learning

April is Autism Acceptance Month, and April 2nd is World Autism Awareness Day, a time to celebrate neurodiversity and deepen our understanding and appreciation of the Autism community. Did you know 1 in 36 children have autism? Early childhood educators play a vital role in creating inclusive learning spaces where all children are accepted and can thrive. Whether you're new to working with autistic children or have been working in inclusive classrooms for years, you play an important role in honoring each child’s unique way of engaging with the world.

What is Autism?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference or disorder that influences how a person communicates, interacts socially, and experiences the world around them. Every child has their own strengths, challenges, and ways of thinking and learning. Some may excel in specific areas like memory or problem-solving, while others may need additional support with sensory processing or language development. If you want to deepen your understanding of autism in a way that’s practical for early childhood professionals, check out our on-demand course: Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder.

How should early childhood educators talk about autism?

There isn’t one “right” way to talk about autism that everyone agrees on. Person-first or person-centered language places the person before the diagnosis (e.g., “child with autism”). This is often used in medical and educational settings to emphasize that an individual is more than their diagnosis. Person-first language frames autism as one of a child’s many traits.

Identity-first language puts the identity first (e.g., “autistic child”). Many self-advocates within the autistic community prefer this because they see autism as an integral part of themselves, inseparable from their identity.

It’s important to listen to the voices from the autistic community when choosing what language to use, while also recognizing that preferences vary. When working with young children, a good place to start is following the family’s lead. If you’re ever unsure what feels most respectful, it’s always okay to ask. In this blog post, you’ll notice we use both person-first and identity-first language. We’ve chosen this approach to reflect the diversity of perspectives within the autism community and to model respectful, inclusive communication. Our goal is to honor the preferences of individuals and their families while acknowledging the broader conversation about language and identity.

Creating an Inclusive Classroom

Inclusion is more than just having autistic children in the classroom—it’s about ensuring every child feels valued, understood, and supported. Here’s how you can foster an inclusive environment:
  • Build Predictability and Structure
Children with autism often thrive in structured environments where routines are clear and consistent. Consider:
  • Using visual schedules with pictures of each activity in your daily routine
  • Providing clear transitions with warning cues (e.g., use a timer or give a verbal reminder before transitions)
  • Support Communication in All Forms
Not all children use verbal speech to communicate. To support communication:
  • Model simple, clear language
  • Use multiple forms of communication when interacting (such as gestures and pictures along with verbal speech)
  • Create a Sensory-Friendly Learning Space
Many children experience sensory sensitivities that can impact learning and behavior. To create a sensory-friendly classroom:
  • Provide a quiet area for children to take a break when the classroom environment feels overwhelming
  • Noise-canceling headphones, low-odor art supplies, and soft natural lighting can help children with sensory sensitivity. Not all kids need the same tools, so get to know the unique sensory needs of your students.


For more information on supporting sensory needs,  view IMPACT's Sensory Strategies Bundle. It features 3 online courses; (1) Beyond the Sensory Table: Classroom Strategies for Sensory Play, (2) Sensory Strategies and the Brain: Promoting Self-Regulation and Learning, and (3) Transforming Group Mealtimes: Strategies for Picky Eating & Food Exploration. 

The Power of Interests for Engaging Learning and Building Relationships for Autistic Children

Many children with autism have topics or activities they are particularly drawn to and passionate about—whether it’s dinosaurs, trains, outer space, numbers, or a favorite character on TV. Some children have deep, lasting interests, while others explore new ones over time. Following a child’s lead and incorporating their interests into learning can be a powerful tool for engagement, motivation, and social connection.

How to Incorporate Interests into Learning

  • Use interests to foster belonging. Incorporate a child’s interests into activities in ways that support their engagement and sense of belonging. If a child enjoys dinosaurs, you might introduce dinosaur-themed stories at circle time, counting activities during small group, and put dinosaur figures in the sensory table.
  • Encourage peer connections. Other children may share similar interests, providing natural opportunities for social interaction and friendship.

How Interests Grow Over Time

In childhood, special interests can be a way to connect with the world, and as children grow, these interests often evolve into strengths that shape their future. Many autistic teenagers find social groups where they can share their passion with like-minded peers, building friendships in a meaningful way. In adulthood, these same interests can develop into hobbies, vocational skills, and even careers—whether in STEM fields, the arts, or other specialized areas. By recognizing and nurturing each child’s unique interests – whether they have a singular deep passion or explore a variety of changing interests – we support lifelong learning, confidence, and success.

Learn More and Grow Your Skills

Ready to build your skills for supporting children? Our Autism Bundle is now 30% off for Autism Acceptance Month – don’t miss this opportunity! This training bundle includes two of our most popular trainings: (1) Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder and (2) Autism Spectrum Disorder: Language and Communication Strategies, so you get practical strategies, deeper insights into autism, and tools for fostering truly inclusive early learning environments.

By embracing neurodiversity and recognizing the value of different ways of thinking and experiencing the world, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive in our classrooms. Let’s continue learning, advocating, and celebrating the incredible strengths of autistic children!


- NWC IMPACT Team

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