Why Can’t They Do It Again?

Ever had a moment where an autistic child or client did something perfectly one day—but couldn’t do it again the next? Before you assume they’re not trying, let’s talk about what’s really happening in the brain.

When the right connections are firing and things are “lined up,” here’s what might be going on:

• Reduced cognitive load: The brain isn't overwhelmed with sensory input or competing thoughts.

• Access to learned patterns: Skills or responses that have been practiced can “click into place.”

• Lower stress response: The nervous system feels safe enough to focus and respond.

• Efficient processing: Information is moving more fluidly between brain regions—like memory, language, motor planning, and decision-making.

What’s Happening in the Brain When the Connections Aren’t There:

• Overload or shutdown: Sensory, emotional, or cognitive overload disrupts access to skills.

• Blocked pathways: The brain struggles to access previously learned information.

• Fight/flight/freeze activation: Stress or unpredictability triggers survival mode.

• Asynchronous development: One part of the brain (e.g., motor planning) may lag behind others (e.g., understanding).

When you've seen what is listed above when the connections "aren't there", have you ever been told, ‘They’re just being stubborn’—but deep down, you knew something else was going on?

Check out Susan and Staci's discussion this week on what may look like "disconnection. "

Understanding this could change how you support memory and motor skills and reduce frustration for both of you.