Autistic Parents and AI: Tools for Empowering Effective Functioning

Disclaimer: We worked together with AI technology to create this post and highlight its practical uses.

Raising children presents unique challenges for every parent, and for Autistic parents, managing executive functioning (EF) tasks like organisation, time management, and planning can be particularly demanding. Fortunately, our struggles are being recognised and many Autistic people are using Artifical Intelligence (AI) powered open access tools like Goblin Tools, Google Gemini, ChatGPT and Otter.ai to help them manage day to day tasks.

Photo by Steve Johnson on Unsplash

1. Goblin Tools is one of our team favourites at APUK, because it is created for Neurodivergent people by Neurodivergent people. Goblin Tools goes beyond a traditional to-do list app, providing a comprehensive toolkit specifically designed to address common EF challenges faced by Neurodivergent individuals:

   
   

   • Magic To-Do helps with task overwhelm by breaking tasks down into manageable steps using various methods like voice recording, typing, or pre-configured options. Magic To-Do even offers time estimates for each step, facilitating realistic planning.

   • Judge analyses the tone of emails or messages, ensuring your intended message is conveyed clearly and aiding in deciphering the tone of incoming communication.

   • Formalizer transforms your text into various styles, ranging from casual to formal, with a customisable "spice level" for precise control over formality.

   • Compiler supports you if feeling overwhelmed by thoughts and ideas. Brain dump them freely and compiler organises your "brain dump" into a structured to-do list, helping you capture and prioritise important tasks.

   • Chef suggests recipes based on what you have, increasing the number of meals you can make but retaining your acceptable flavour range and reducing meal planning stress. It can even integrate recipe suggestions into Magic To-Do for smoother task breakdown.

     
     

2. ChatGPT is a versatile AI chatbot that can be used in lots of ways. Some Autistic people use ChatGPT to help with navigating social situations by simulating conversations. This feature can also be useful for scripting tricky interactions. Plus, if your head is buzzing with creative ideas but you’re struggling to string them together, ChatGPT can help to form them into a story or game. ChatGPT excels at creative text generation and engaging in informative conversations. It serves as a valuable resource for stimulating imagination, organising ideas and enhancing communication within a supportive and nonjudgmental environment.

   
   

3. Gemini is a large language model (LLM) that generates answers based on Google searches. It is programmed to access and process information from the real world. This means that it can be great to use with children as it can summarise complex or sensitive topics in an age appropriate way, help with educational projects or provide answers to all their “why” questions.

   
   

4. Otter.ai can be another valuable tool for Autistic parents. This AI-powered software is useful for real-time speech transcription, meaning you don’t need to take your own notes during doctors appointments, school or work meetings, therapy sessions, or important conversations with family. Otter can capture key details, identify speakers, and generate searchable transcripts. This makes it much easier to check what was said if you didn’t fully process it at the time. Otter’s live transcription can also be useful for those that find auditory processing challenging at times, like subtitles for real life.

Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash

Expanding the Support Ecosystem: Exploring Additional AI Resources

If you get on with the tools discussed above and would like to explore what else AI could support you with have a look into:

• Voice Assistants: Delegate tasks like setting reminders, controlling smart home devices, or playing music.

• Scheduling Apps: Leverage AI-powered calendars that learn your preferences and routines, suggesting optimal planning and minimising scheduling burdens.

• Focus Apps: Enhance focus and manage distractions with apps that utilise the Pomodoro technique or other established methods.

Although there are some disadvantages of AI to be aware of, for many Autistic parents AI can be a useful aid or disability accommodation. AI tools can serve as valuable supplements, not replacements for your unique strengths and strategies. They are not meant to "fix" anything or create a challenge-free parenthood. Think of them as tools to help conserve your precious spoons, freeing up valuable resources for the moments that truly matter in your parenting journey. It may be helpful to seek support from fellow Autistic parents to connect and share experiences.

Written by: Zoe Williams, Autistic Parents UK volunteer

Reviewed by: Ruth Jenks, Autistic Parents UK volunteer