What is Autism?
There are many different definitions of Autism. At Movement Five, we understand Autism as a brain difference that is fundamental to who a person is. It is not separate from the individual. It shapes how a person thinks, communicates, senses, and moves through the world.
Autistic people develop differently from non autistic people. They may process information differently, communicate in unique ways, experience the sensory world more intensely or differently, and develop strong focused interests. While every person is unique, Autistic people often share common patterns in how they socialise, think, regulate, and interpret their environment.
Autism is not something to be fixed. It is a different way of experiencing the world.
Core Characteristics of Autism
Communication
Autistic communication may differ from typical expectations. This can include differences in:
- Use and understanding of language
- Tone, facial expression, gestures, and body language
- Literal or detail focused communication styles
Some Autistic people use speech consistently, others use it minimally or not at all. Communication may also occur through writing, sign language, gestures, sounds, or Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems. It is important to remember that all forms of communication are valid.
Behaviours and Interests
Repetitive movements, strong interests, and a preference for predictability are common. These may include:
- Deep focused passions
- Repetitive movements such as rocking, hand flapping, or repeating phrases
- Strong preferences for routine and structure
These behaviours are often regulating and meaningful. They can reduce anxiety, support focus, and create a sense of safety.
Sensory Processing
Autistic people may experience the sensory world differently. They can be more sensitive or less sensitive to sensory input, including:
- Sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, balance (vestibular) and movement (proprioception), body awareness and internal sensations (interoception).Â
Sensory differences influence how someone engages with their environment. When sensory needs are understood and supported, regulation improves.
How Movement Five Offers Support
At Movement Five, we provide individualised, regulation informed support that recognises Autism as a difference, not a deficit. Our aim is to create environments where Autistic individuals feel understood, supported, and empowered.
Individualised and Relationship Based Support
All services are tailored to each individual’s strengths, goals, communication style, and sensory profile. We carefully match clients and support workers based on personality, interests, and needs. Meet and greets are completed before services begin to ensure the right fit as consistency and strong relationships are central to our model.
Skilled and Regulation Informed Staff
All Movement Five support workers complete training alongside an Occupational Therapist. This strengthens their understanding of:
- Sensory processing
- Emotional regulation
- Behaviour as communication
- Skill acquisition and teaching strategies
This ensures supports are proactive, structured, and focused on long term development and goal attainment.
A Collaborative, Multidisciplinary Approach
Our client coordinators regularly communicate with Behaviour Support Practitioners, Speech Pathologists, Psychologists, and Occupational Therapists where required. Therapy strategies can be implemented during support sessions and feedback is provided across the team. This allows goals to be practised in real world environments, not just clinical settings.
Purpose Built Environments
Movement Five HQ in Lake Illawarra is designed to support regulation and skill development. It includes:
- A dedicated Reset Room with sensory equipment
- A large backyard with sporting equipment
- Access to outdoor spaces including the beach and park
Both our Lake Illawarra and Shoalhaven respite locations include visual supports, structured routines, and fully equipped living spaces where clients can practise everyday life skills.
Our Services:
Movement Five provides:
- Individual support
- Social group activities
- Group training
- Personal training
- Camps, trips and emergency respite
Support can occur at home, in the community, at events, at Movement Five locations, or in gym environments depending on the individual’s goals. Read more about our services here: LINK
Occupational Therapy Interventions at Movement Five
At Movement Five, Occupational Therapy interventions are designed to support both our Autistic clients and support workers in working toward meaningful goals. Interventions are embedded throughout daily activities, ensuring skills are practised in real-world settings. Key interventions include:
- Reset Room: A dedicated space at HQ with sensory equipment, providing clients with a safe environment to self-regulate, practise coping strategies or just reset after a big emotion.
- Fine Motor Skills Stations: Activities such as shoelace practice to develop independence in everyday tasks that are common goals for many clients.
- Work Opportunities: Clients can engage in practical work experiences including delivering flyers, washing cars, and gardening to build skills and confidence.
- Meal Preparation Groups: Weekly cooking sessions allow clients to practise planning, preparing, and cooking meals, with accessible or modified equipment provided as needed.
- Gross Motor Skill Development: Equipment such as basketballs, scooters, bikes, and outdoor games is readily available to develop coordination, strength, and confidence in movement-based activities.
A key focus of Occupational Therapy at Movement Five is real-world application. Skills are not only practised in a therapy-style setting but embedded across respite stays, community access, group programs, and one-on-one support. At Movement Five, Occupational Therapy is about building practical skills, supporting regulation, and creating environments where individuals can thrive.
If you would like to learn more about the services Movement Five offer or how we can support your family or child with Autism, contact Movement Five today.
References:
https://reframingautism.org.au/about-autism/
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/what-is-autism