Separating Fact from Fiction to Help You Support Your Child with Confidence
At Thrive Tots, we often meet parents who are navigating early uncertainty — perhaps noticing early developmental differences, hearing unfamiliar terms like “autism”, and feeling overwhelmed by conflicting information.
That’s completely understandable. One of the biggest hurdle families face isn’t access to therapy — it’s misinformation. And unfortunately, myth about autism still circulate widely, even here in Malaysia.
In this article, we gently break down some of the most common misunderstandings and share what we know from both science, and from our experience as early intervention therapist and child psychologist — so you can feel informed, empowered, and supported as you move forward.
Myth #1: “Only boys can have autism.”
While it’s true that autism is more commonly diagnosed in boys, it absolutely affects girls too. The challenge is that girls often display different traits — they mask symptoms, copy social behaviours, or have more internalised struggles, making autism harder to identify.
Truth: Girls can have autism. Their signs may look different and require a more nuanced understanding.
Myth #2: “They’ll grow out of it.”
It’s common to hear, “Let’s wait and see,” when a child isn’t talking yet or shows signs of delay. While all children develop at their own pace, persistent differences — like delayed speech, limited eye contact, or repetitive behaviours — may signal the need for early support.
Truth: Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition. While children can make great progress — especially with early support — autism is not something they “grow out of.” The earlier the intervention, the better the outcomes.
Learn more about early signs in our guide on Signs of Autism in Toddlers
Myth #3: “Autism is caused by parenting or vaccines.”
This myth is outdated and harmful myth that continues to cause unnecessary guilt and fear. Autism is not caused by poor parenting, screen time, or vaccinations. Decades of research point to combination of genetic and neurological factors that affect how the brain develops.
Truth: Autism is nobody’s fault. It’s a difference in how the brain processes the world — and understanding this can help shift the conversation from blame to support.
Myth #4: “Children with autism don’t feel emotions or love.”
This is one of the most hurtful myths — and also the furthest from the truth. Children with autism often experience emotion deeply. They may simply express them differently. Eye contact, tone of voice, or body language might not look the same — but connection, love, and affection are very real.
Truth: Autistic children can love, laugh, connect, and build meaningful relationships. They might do it in ways that are unique to them.
Myth #5: “Autism always means a lifelong disability.”
Autism exists on a spectrum, and each child has a unique set of strengths and challenges. While some may need significant daily support, others go on to live independently, pursue careers, and lead rich, fulfilling lives.
Truth: Autism is not a life sentence — it’s a different neurotype. With support, autistic individuals can thrive in their own remarkable ways.
Why Busting These Myths Matters
When myths go unchallenged, they delay understanding, increase stigma, and hold families back from seeking the support they deserve.
As child psychologist working with families across Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya, we’ve seen first-hand the transformation that happens when support begins early — when children are accepted for who they are and given the right tools to thrive.
You don’t need to wait for certainty. If you’re unsure about what you’re noticing, start here:
What Is Autism? A Parent’s Guide
Or, if you’re preparing to take the first step into therapy:
Preparing Your Child for Their First Therapy Session
Final Thoughts from Thrive Tots Team
Being a parent of a child with autism doesn’t mean having all the answers. It means showing up, asking questions, and advocating with love — and that’s exactly what you’re doing now.
At Thrive Tots, we’re here to walk with you. Whether you’re at the beginning of this journey or further along, we offer home-based, play-led autism therapy and parent coaching that’s grounded in empathy, trust, and early intervention best practices.
Contact us today to learn more about autism therapy for kids in KL and how we can support your family’s journey.