Exploring Autism

Explore the core concepts of autism, from foundational basics, neuro-affirming language to key terminology.

What is autism

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurological and developmental condition that shapes how a person experiences, perceives, and interacts with the world around them.

A Unified Spectrum

In the past, autism was divided into separate subtypes, such as Asperger’s disorder, Autistic Disorder, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). Today, these separate labels are no longer used by medical professionals. Instead, they have been merged into a single, unified diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Unique to Every Individual

The word "spectrum" is key because autism develops uniquely in every single individual. There is no single "type" of autism. Every person has a highly unique combination of strengths, differences, and support needs across areas like communication, social interaction, sensory processing, and processing styles.

Growth and Evolution Over Time

Because ASD is a developmental condition, a person’s traits, challenges, and strengths can change over time as they grow, learn, and move through different environments. Support needs that are prominent in early childhood may shift by the time a child reaches adolescence or adulthood, especially with the right support.

Neurodivergent: An umbrella term for people whose brains function differently and includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc.
Neurotypical: People whose brain development follows the "typical" or expected path.
Neurodiversity-Affirming: Also referred to as neuro-affirming, this approach views autism as a difference to be supported, rather than a disorder to be "cured."
Neurodiversity-Affirming Language: This type of language focuses on how a person is and that their neurological difference is natural and not a flaw or illness. This includes the move away from terminology that implies people needed to be "fixed" or that they "suffer" from an illness.
Non-verbal: The preferred term is "non-speaking" as this acknowledges that a person may have a rich internal vocabulary but not use their mouth to speak. For example, they may use not use their mouth to speak but Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to express themselves.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC): AAC devices can help children with autism communicate when they struggle to speak.
Allistic: A specific term for someone who is not autistic.
Profoundly: A term often used for those with the highest needs. There are mixed opinions about the use of this word as the DSM-5 levels used for diagnosis can be used to indicate the level of support needed.
High Functioning: A term used to describe those with average or above average intelligence, speak fluently and manage daily living independently. This term is no longer used as it is potentially harmful as it can result in people not getting the support they need.
Neurodivergent: Also known as "ND", this umbrella term can be used for anyone whose brain functions differently (Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia).
Neurotypical: Also known as "NT", this group includes anyone with "typical" brain development.

Neurodiversity-Affirming Language

Autism Canada produced the guide "Words Matter" to promote neurodiversity-affirming language, favoring identity-first phrasing and respectful terminology over deficit-based labels.

Person-first vs. Identify-first

Person-First (PFL): "I am a person with autism."

Why? Historically, this has been the "gold standard" in clinical settings, like schools and hospitals, to make sure the person was seen before the disability. However, many in the autistic community now find this phrasing suggests autism is a deficit and that it is something "wrong" or is something can be “removed” from the person.

Identity-First (IFL): "I am an autistic person."

Why? Many advocates believe autism can't be separated from who they are. They feel it isn't a "disease" they carry, but the way their brain is wired shapes their personality and experiences.

Shift in Language

Organizations and families in Ontario are increasingly moving toward Identity-First Language based on feedback from autistic self-advocates.

Autism Ontario: Their website acknowledges this shift, noting that while clinical documents (like OAP paperwork) often use person-first language, they respect the growing preference for "autistic person" as a term of pride and identity.

Autism Ontario Language Statement-EN-FINAL-Sep2022.pdf

Ontario Autism Coalition: Their advocacy reports often use both, but they are increasingly leading with identity-first language to align with neurodivergent-led movements.

Asking first as an act of Allyship

Through their Sonderly training program, the Geneva Centre for Autism makes it clear that we should all, including service providers and health professionals, ask individuals which language they prefer, as it varies from person to person.

Asking first it is an act of allyship with the autistic community.

Talking About Autism

Sharing an autism diagnosis or starting conversations about autism can feel completely overwhelming.

Here are some links to Canadian resources that might be helpful.

AIDE Canada – Parent Advice Videos

https://aidecanada.ca/connect/video-q-a-parents

Autism Society of Alberta – Starting a Conversation

https://autismalberta.ca/how-to-talk-about-autism/

Diagnostic Terminology

Autism Ontario offers a resource that provides an overview of some of the diagnostic terms used and how they translate to community language.

Autism Ontario: Diagnostic Terminology

Frequently asked questions

Why was this website created?

The Thunder Bay Autism Hub was created to serve as a centralized, "one-stop shop" that connects families and service providers with vital autism resources, programs, and support services in our community. By bringing this information together into a single, easy-to-navigate space, we eliminate the need for hours of frustrating research. Our goal is to streamline the search process and save families valuable time—time that is much better spent supporting, bonding, and making memories together.

Who monitors the content?

To ensure accuracy and quality, all content on the Thunder Bay Autism Hub is actively monitored and updated by the Kiwanis Club of Westfort and dedicated parent volunteers.

Can families and providers contribute content?

Families and providers are welcome to submit relevant resources, events, or content for consideration on the Hub. To maintain high standards, all submissions are carefully vetted by our review team. Please note that the Thunder Bay Autism Hub focuses strictly on practical support and community resources; therefore, any submissions containing information regarding causes or cures will not be included.