Neighbors & Autism
Guides for neighbors and autistic people about living, noise, and neighborhood contact.
What you see vs. what's happening
Your neighbor walks past quickly without greeting. Doesn't come to the block party. Complains about sounds you can't even hear. Doesn't respond to your message in the neighborhood group. From the outside, that might seem unfriendly or difficult.
But your neighbor's brain works differently. Every sound, every unexpected encounter, and every social expectation is processed consciously. What comes automatically to you — a quick wave, a chat — costs your neighbor active energy. These guides explain what's going on and what you can concretely do.
Noise & Sound Sensitivity
Why your neighbor reacts to sound like that — and what you can do about construction noise, music, and daily sounds.
ReadHallway Small Talk
Why your neighbor keeps it short in the hallway — and why that has nothing to do with you.
ReadNeighborhood Events
Why your neighbor skips the block party — and how to make events more accessible when they do show up.
ReadBoundaries & Requests
Why your neighbor says no to packages, keys, and drop-ins — and why that is not about you.
ReadCommunication
Why your neighbor prefers texting over doorbell conversations — and how to communicate in a way that works for both of you.
ReadRemember: A good neighborly relationship doesn't need to be warm or cozy. Be predictable, respect each other's peace, and communicate clearly. That's enough.
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