What are “special interests” in autism?

Special interests are highly focused areas of curiosity or passion that can provide joy, motivation, and a sense of competence. When used intentionally, they can become powerful tools for learning, communication, and social connection.

How can my child’s fixations be used positively?

You can embed a child’s interests into teaching targets, routines, and rewards—e.g., using the topic as reading material, conversation practice, or a motivator—to boost engagement and skill acquisition.

Do special interests help with social skills?

Yes. Interests can open conversations, support peer interaction, and build confidence. Structured activities like interest clubs or partner projects can turn a solitary focus into shared social experiences.

What if my child talks about their interest too much?

You can teach flexible conversation habits such as setting turn-taking rules, using visual prompts or timers, and practicing topic shifting. A behavior plan can reinforce balanced sharing without discouraging the interest.

Can ABA therapy incorporate special interests?

Absolutely. ABA providers often integrate interests into goals for communication, self-management, and academics. Interests can be used as antecedent strategies, teaching materials, and reinforcement—then gradually faded to promote generalization.

When should we seek extra help for interest-related behaviors?

If fixations lead to conflict, refusal, meltdowns, or school/home disruptions, consider a functional behavior assessment (FBA) to identify triggers and design supports that keep the interest while addressing the behavior.

How can schools support special interests appropriately?

Teams can include interest-based strategies in IEP or 504 supports—e.g., interest-aligned assignments, planned choice time, visual schedules, and goals for flexible use of the interest across classes.

Do fixations have to be limited or can they grow with my child?

They can evolve. Many families scaffold breadth (new related topics), depth (more advanced content), and function (academic, vocational, or social use) so the interest becomes a lifelong strength.

Seeing the Advantages of Your Child’s Unique Fixations

Positive Reinforcement • September 30, 2025

Benefits of special interests for children with autism

Those who work with children with autism can attest that they carry with them a wide variety of special interests. One child may be absorbed by astronomy, another by the Titanic, still another by poison dart frogs, and others by any of countless titles or characters from popular culture. The spectrum of unique interests from one individual with autism to the next is as broad as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) itself.

The DSM-5, or the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders lists “restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities” as a diagnostic criteria for ASD. In many ways this symptom could be considered problematic. In fact, some parents may be concerned by their child’s fixation on a certain topic simply because the behavior is so intense or inflexible. However, experts have come to agree that these intense interests should not be discouraged and can be treated as a strength, not a weakness.

What are the benefits of special interests for children with autism?

Adults with autism discussing their long-standing fixation on specific topics generally express a sense of joy and fulfillment regarding these interests. They enrich the lives of those with autism. Special interests can be a source of stress relief and a coping mechanism when experiencing strong emotions. In addition, special interests have the potential to increase social interactions and boost confidence.

As well as social and emotional benefits, special interests can even be leveraged for academic growth. One interesting study out of MIT found that auditory input on a person with autism’s specific special interests actually light up language receptors in a way that other input doesn’t.

When should I be concerned about my child’s intense special interests?

If behavior that accompanies your child’s special interests is an issue—think interrupting, arguing, or monologuing—the behavior can be addressed without discouraging the special interest itself. In the past, parents and caregivers may have been led to believe they should limit or restrict a child’s special interests. Experts no longer believe that redirecting a child with autism’s interests could make it easier for them to connect with their neurotypical peers. The very opposite may be true. It makes much more sense to encourage a child’s innate passions and let them enhance their life in a special way.

Positive Reinforcement provides in home ABA Therapy for homeschoolers in Ashburn VA, Purcellville and surrounding areas.