What is ASD?
A clear and approachable guide for families looking to understand autism and learn how to support their children.
Autism is a broad and diverse spectrum.
No two autistic people are the same: each one has their own way of communicating, relating, learning and experiencing the world.
This page aims to be a clear and respectful guide for families looking to understand autism and learn how to support their children.
What is autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
ASD (autism spectrum disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that influences how a person perceives the world, communicates and relates to others.
"Spectrum" means no two people are the same: within autism there are very diverse ways of communicating, learning, feeling and living.
- Some people may need more support with verbal communication.
- Others with social interactions.
- Others with sensory regulation or coping with changes in routine.
But all share one thing: a different way of processing information and relating to their environment.
When we understand a child's needs, we adapt the environment where necessary and, at the same time, offer tools and support that foster their independence, participation and wellbeing.
That is why, when talking about autism, we prefer to speak of strengths and support needs rather than deficits and limitations.
Every child is unique, and their support should be too.
Warning signs in children: when it is worth consulting a professional
Every child develops at their own pace. Noticing one particular characteristic does not mean a child is autistic.
However, when several of these characteristics appear persistently or create difficulties in daily life, it may be helpful to consult a professional specialising in neurodevelopment.
Between 12 and 18 months
- Does not point to share interest (may point to request, but not to show something)
- Little response to their name when called
- Little spontaneous eye contact
- Does not make gestures such as waving goodbye
Between 18 months and 3 years
- Absence or delay in speech development
- Loses skills previously acquired (words, gestures)
- Little interest in other children or in pretend play
- Repetitive movements (hand flapping, toe walking, spinning objects)
- Intense reactions to certain sensory stimuli (noises, textures, lights)
- Strong need for routines or difficulty with changes
From age 3
- Significant difficulties understanding or using social language
- Difficulty initiating or maintaining play or conversation with other children
- Very rigid behaviour or very specific and intense interests
- May need more support to regulate emotionally when facing changes, frustrations or unexpected situations
If you have doubts, there is no need to wait. Consulting does not mean a diagnosis. It means getting a professional perspective on what you are observing.
Tell us what you are observingHow we support children with ASD at Espai Tribu
At Espai Tribu we do not work from a standard protocol.
We work from each child.
When a child with ASD arrives at the centre, the first thing we want is to get to know them.
- How they communicate.
- What interests them.
- What energises them and what overwhelms them.
- Which situations are difficult for them.
- And what strengths we can use as a bridge to support them.
From there, the work is built with the child, not on the child.
Services that may be helpful
Therapy and support
To work on emotional regulation, social skills, communication and the wellbeing of the child and family.
Paediatric occupational therapy
To support sensory processing, independence, motor skills and participation in daily activities.
Inclusive after-school activities
Small-group activities where every child can be part of the experience, each in their own way.
Not all families arrive with a diagnosis.
Some are in the assessment process. Others notice differences in development or situations that raise questions and are not sure where to start.
Whatever your situation, we can help you find your way.
Useful resources for families
Some organisations and resources that may be helpful if you are going through a time of uncertainty or looking for information.
Key organisations
CDIAP Garraf
Free public early childhood development and care service (ages 0-6) in the Garraf area. Families can access it directly.
Autisme Catalunya
Federation of support organisations and families of people with ASD
autismecatalunya.catACAP — Catalan Federation of Parents of People with ASD
Support and guidance for families in Catalonia
acap.catAssociació Autisme amb Futur
A family-led organisation in Vilanova i la Geltrú and Vilafranca del Penedès working for the inclusion and wellbeing of autistic people
autismeambfutur.orgEvery child is different.
And every family arrives at a different point.
If you are looking for guidance, therapy, or simply someone to listen and help you understand the road ahead, we are here.