Social Understanding & Communication (Autism)

Children and young people with Autism, are likely to have particular differences with social interaction. They may also experience differences with language, communication and imagination, which can impact on how they relate to others.

Calderdale is a needs-led council and encourages practitioners to use this guidance to support children and young people (CYP) with neurodiverse profiles, including those with traits similar to autism, regardless of whether a formal diagnosis has been made.

Short code	Description
Early communication	Supporting Neurodiverse CYP who are non speaking
Engaging in joint and shared attention with others	Supporting engagement and attention.
Communicating own needs	Expressing needs, preferences, or discomfort
Conversations & everyday interactions	Understanding and use of conversation and interaction skills
Understanding and expressing emotions	Recognising, understanding, or expressing emotions, which can impact emotional regulation and communication with others
Understanding the thoughts, feelings, and actions of others	Interpreting or predicting the thoughts, feelings, or motivations of others
Friendships & relationships	Forming and maintaining friendships and relationships
Camouflaging including Masking	Understanding masking and supprtive strategies
Supporting access to lessons requiring imaginative thinking	Engagement in activities that require imagination, flexible thinking, or creative problem-solving
Social interactions	Initiating, joining, or sustaining social interactions, participation in group work and peer relationships