Are Autistic Kids Very Attached to Their Parents?

Yes, autistic kids can be deeply attached to their parents, but they may express it differently. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often form strong emotional bonds, even if their affection doesn’t always appear in typical ways. For example, some may not show physical affection or make consistent eye contact, but they might follow their parents around, seek comfort in their presence, or become distressed when separated.

Autistic children may also connect through shared routines or interests rather than direct verbal or physical expressions of love. It’s important to remember that autism affects how emotions are communicated, not whether they exist. With patience and understanding, parents can strengthen that bond through consistent care, calm communication, and positive reinforcement.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy helps by improving communication, emotional understanding, and social connection allowing children to express their attachment more clearly and confidently.

At Epic Minds ABA, we provide compassionate, individualized ABA therapy in North Carolina to help children and families build stronger, more meaningful relationships.

Want to deepen your child’s connection and communication? Contact us today!

SOURCES

Autistic Child Favors One Parent? Here’s Why!

Is it common for autistic children to be very attached to one caregiver?
byu/crabblue6 inAutism_Parenting

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15095116

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14616734.2025.2541232

Autism and Attachment Theory: Can Autism Influence Attachment and How?