Thomas the Tank Engine is serving an important role as friend to many children with autism, and can help them enter the world of communication and learning, says a report from the National Autistic Society. The report investigated the special relationship children with autism and Asperger’s syndrome appear to have with the loveable locomotive.
It found that children with autism spectrum disorders associate far more strongly with Thomas than with any other children’s character and maintain that association longer. From a survey of 81 parents of children with the condition, 57 per cent said this was the case. “I believe that Thomas has been his security blanket,” said one mother. Others commented on how their children had learnt colours and numbers through Thomas and how their speech and eye contact had improved because they watched the programme so intently.
“He has learnt from Thomas stories about feelings - happy and sad,” said another parent. “It has enabled us to help him make sense of some of his daily experiences.”
The report, Do Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders have a Special Relationship with Thomas the Tank Engine and, if so, why? can be found on www.nas.org.uk
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