282. High-Functioning Autism: What Does That Really Tell Us?

Your child speaks, reads, or knows more about their favorite subject than most adults—and people assume they need less help than they actually do.

Or they need substantial support, and people overlook their abilities.

What do the words “high-functioning” and “low-functioning” really tell us?

In this episode, I share how something I heard in an audiobook made me question a description I’ve often used for my own son, Jordan. We explore what functioning labels leave out, where autism support levels fit, and how to describe your child’s abilities and needs in ways that help others understand.

You’ll hear:

• Why speaking doesn’t tell us how someone manages everyday life.
• How broad labels can hide support needs or lead people to underestimate abilities.
• What Levels 1, 2, and 3 describe—and what they don’t.
• Practical language you can use with family, teachers, and providers.

You don’t have to downplay what your child can do to explain what they still need help with.

💻 FREE LIVE WEBINAR
BEYOND THE IEP: What Moms REALLY Need to Navigate the Autism Parenting Journey

Wednesday, November 11, 2026
7:30 PM Eastern | 6:30 PM Central | 5:30 PM Mountain | 4:30 PM Pacific

Join Shannon to discover three things no one tells you after an autism diagnosis—and how to decide what matters now, what can wait, and what to do next without second-guessing yourself.

Register FREE:
https://new.notyouraverageautismmom.com/registration-page

Find coaching, resources, and a community of moms who understand at www.notyouraverageautismmom.com.