264. The Invisible Communication Gap (And Why It Causes So Much Frustration)
Apr 02, 2026Why does your autistic child take things so literally? Why do they sometimes focus on details that seem completely unrelated to the situation? And why can conversations with them sometimes feel like you’re both talking about two totally different things?
In this episode, Shannon Urquiola breaks down what she calls “The Invisible Communication Gap” — the difference between how many autistic brains process information and how the rest of the world communicates.
While neurotypical brains often infer hidden meaning, tone, and intention, many autistic individuals process communication more factually and literally. This difference can lead to misunderstandings in everyday moments like conversations, watching movies, following classroom lessons, or even watching sports on TV.
Shannon shares relatable real-life stories from raising her son Jordan, including:
• why he asks questions about the sports ticker during games • why many autistic individuals prefer captions • why kids often rewind the same scene repeatedly • why small details can pull attention away from the bigger story
You’ll also learn practical ways to bridge this communication gap by adjusting how we explain things, clarifying expectations, and helping our children balance details and meaning.
If you’ve ever wondered why your child takes things so literally, this episode will help you understand what’s really happening inside their brain — and how you can support them more effectively.
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We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.
P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out other ways we can support you at https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/
Additional Resources:
Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB
If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at info@notyouraverageautismmom.com
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