Introduction to Autism Online Tutorial
	Module 4: Strengths and Positive Characteristics of Autism "Many children with autism are good at drawing, art and computer programming. These talent areas should be encouraged. I think there needs to be much more emphasis on developing the child's talents. Talents can be turned into skills that can be used for future employment." - Temple Grandin, Ph.D. When looking at people with autism, it’s easy to focus on the challenges and difficulties they face. Keeping these challenges in mind is important to help us design educational programs to help them learn and grow. However, I think we also need to focus on their strengths, talents and abilities. A recent episode of “60 Minutes” shared the story of a young man with autism whose parents used his talents and special interests to, as they describe it, “bring him back” from autism. While most of our children/students will not display this level of extreme mathematical talent, I think it shows the importance of recognizing the strengths and gifts of each individual with autism and using them as teaching tools. Next --> What are some terrific traits of people with autism?