What can I do to help my child when they copy other people all day and then feel wiped out?

Short answer

Do not assume a child who looks fine is not using effort.

What this can look like

A child may copy others or smile through something difficult, then unravel later at home.

Why it can happen

Some children copy language, expressions or behaviour to get through a setting. That may help them belong in the moment and still leave them wiped out afterwards.

What might help

Believe the effort and make it safe to be quiet, direct or to take a break.

What the research helps explain

Australian autism guidance and research on masking describe meaningful differences in sensory experience, communication, routines, transitions and recovery. Family support should be person-led and context-aware; one trait or difficult day cannot establish autism or AuDHD.

What can vary

Children differ widely in communication, sensory needs, recovery and the support they want. Similar experiences can have other explanations. A public page cannot diagnose a child or prescribe support without understanding their context.

For this situation

For you, make home a place where they do not have to perform being okay.

More info and original sources

Poko summarises the relevance of public original sources and links out for anyone who wants to read more.

• National Guideline for assessment and diagnosis of autism — Australian evidence guidance on autism assessment, varied presentation and appropriate limits.
• Autism Support Strategies — Australian public guidance on practical, person-led environmental and communication supports.