Gifts for autistic adults that start with their interests

Many autistic adults prefer identity-first language, “autistic person,” because they see autism as part of who they are rather than something separate from them. The Autistic Self Advocacy Network uses it. Some people prefer person-first language, “person with autism,” and that is their call. Notice how they describe themselves, or ask, and use their term in cards and conversation.

Sometimes, but only when the person already likes that kind of input. The National Autistic Society notes that autistic people can be over-sensitive to some things and under-sensitive to others, and that sensitivity can rise with stress or tiredness. The same weighted blanket can feel comforting to one person and confining to another. Ask first, or buy from a list they have shared.

Not always. Some autistic adults enjoy surprises, and others find the uncertainty stressful. The Autistic Girls Network suggests letting people say exactly what they want and dropping the expectation to unwrap gifts with everyone watching. A quick heads-up about what’s inside, an unwrapped gift or a gift receipt can take the pressure off, and so can letting them open it later in private.

Autistic-led groups, including the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, have criticized Autism Speaks for describing autism as a disease, for spending priorities that favor research over services, and for having few autistic people in its leadership. The charity removed the word “cure” from its mission in 2016, but criticism from autistic advocates has continued. To support autistic people, look to autistic-led organizations instead.