“High-functioning” tells you nothing actionable. It does not say whether a child can cross a road, tolerate a dentist, or ask for help when frightened.

So we name the need instead: needs significant daily support, has a learning disability, cannot be left alone near water. Longer, and useful.

We also default to identity-first language — autistic child — because that is the clear majority preference among autistic adults. We never correct a parent’s own words.