🌟 Autism vs. ADHD: How Social Skills Can Look Different

Helping Families Across the Florida Keys Understand Their Child’s Needs

At Fun 4 Kids, one of the most common concerns we hear from parents is:“My child struggles to make friends — is it Autism? ADHD? Or something else?”

The short answer? It could be either — or both.Children with Autism and children with ADHD often face social challenges, but the way those challenges show up can be very different.

🧠 ADHD and Social Skills: Fast-Paced and Sometimes Overwhelming

Children with ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) usually enjoy being around others. They may be talkative, social, and full of energy. But that same energy can make it harder for them to:

• Wait their turn in conversations

• Pick up on facial expressions or tone changes

• Stay focused in group settings

• Avoid blurting out thoughts or interrupting

They’re not being rude — their attention is moving quickly, and they’re often acting before they process. With the right strategies, they can learn how to pause, reflect, and respond in more thoughtful ways.

🧩 Autism and Social Skills: Different Processing, Different Connection

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often experience social interactions in a completely different way. They may:

• Avoid or struggle with eye contact

• Find conversation confusing or overwhelming

• Prefer structured play or routines

• Have a hard time expressing thoughts, feelings, or needs clearly

This doesn’t mean they don’t want connection — it just means they need help building the tools to navigate it. Autistic kids may communicate more through actions, interests, or routines than through traditional conversation.

💡 It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All — and That’s Okay

It’s also important to know that some children are diagnosed with both Autism and ADHD, and that dual diagnosis is becoming more widely recognized. That’s why understanding how your child experiences the world is so important — it helps us find what works for them.

At Fun 4 Kids, we use ABA therapy in a playful, personalized way to help kids:

• Understand social cues

• Express themselves clearly

• Build confidence in group settings

• Practice conversation and connection through fun, structured activities

  
  

We meet children where they are — whether they’re outgoing and impulsive, quiet and reserved, or somewhere in between.

💬 You’re Not Alone

If you’ve ever felt unsure about your child’s social development, we’re here to help.We serve families all throughout the Florida Keys, and we know how meaningful it is to have a team that listens, supports, and celebrates every step forward.

📞 Have questions? Want to learn more about ABA therapy and social skills support?Reach out anytime — we’d love to talk with you.