When Sharks are life - Understanding fixations on special interests

When Sharks Are Life: Understanding Autism and Fixation on Special Interests

If you're parenting a child on the autism spectrum, you've likely experienced the deep, unshakable bond they form with a very specific topic—maybe it’s trains, dinosaurs, space, or in our case… sharks.

To the outside world, it might seem like “just a phase.” But for kids with autism, these intense interests are much more than a hobby. They're a source of comfort, focus, and even emotional regulation. They are a calm-down tool, a confidence booster, and sometimes, a bridge to communication and learning.

One of the things we use to help during moments of dysregulation is asking him to start naming sharks. He knows so many by heart—and sometimes even makes up his own as we work on calming down. And that’s perfectly okay. We just keep counting sharks together until he’s back in a calm state.

He also struggles with reading and handwriting, but when it comes to reading about sharks or writing about sharks—it’s a whole different ballgame. He’s engaged, focused, and willing to do the work. Sharks aren’t just his passion—they’re also one of our most powerful tools for learning and regulation.

What Is a Special Interest?

In the autism community, we often refer to these fixations as special interests. They’re not random or fleeting; they are powerful, meaningful passions that can last for years or even a lifetime. A child with autism may want to learn everything about sharks—every species, every fact, every video and book and toy they can get their hands on.

And here’s the thing: that’s not a bad thing.

Why Sharks (or Trains, or Space, or Whatever It May Be)?

No two kids are the same, but there are a few common reasons why children with autism might latch onto a particular topic so strongly:

• Predictability: Special interests follow patterns and rules—something the autistic brain finds comfort in.

• Control: It’s a topic they understand and can master. In a world that often feels overwhelming, that sense of control is soothing.

• Focus: These interests provide a “safe zone” for focus and attention, often helping calm anxiety or overstimulation.

• Joy: Let’s not forget the simple fact—they genuinely love this thing. Their passion is real, deep, and pure.

For our child, sharks are everything. They watch documentaries, draw sharks, pretend to be one, and can tell you the differences between a great white and a mako with the excitement of a marine biologist. It’s more than cute—it’s therapeutic.

The Power of Obsession (Yes, It Can Be a Good Thing)

While the word “obsession” can carry a negative tone, in the context of autism, it’s often a doorway to growth. Here’s how special interests can be a strength:

1. Self-Regulation Tool

When overstimulated or anxious, returning to their special interest (even just by talking about it or holding a toy related to it) can be incredibly calming.

2. Learning Gateway

A child who is obsessed with sharks will be more motivated to read, write, and explore science just to learn more about them. You can sneak in all kinds of learning when it’s tied to their favorite thing.

3. Social Connection

It may not seem like it, but special interests can also help autistic kids connect with others—especially when peers or adults take an interest, too. They may open up more easily when talking about their passion.

4. Confidence Booster

Knowing so much about a topic gives them a sense of pride. That feeling of mastery can be empowering in a world that often makes them feel “different.”

But What If It’s Too Much?

Sometimes, the fixation can get intense. Maybe it’s all they want to talk about, or they struggle to switch tasks if it’s not related to their interest. That’s okay—and normal. You can gently work on balance without taking the joy away.

Tips for Managing Intense Fixations:

• Use it as a tool: Integrate their interest into schoolwork, chores, or transitions.

• Set gentle boundaries: “We can talk about sharks for 15 minutes, then do a different activity.”

• Join in: Show interest—it builds trust and can open the door to introducing new topics.

• Create alternatives: Offer choices that are related to the interest but introduce variety (e.g., ocean animals instead of just sharks).

Final Thoughts

That deep love for sharks (or trains, or weather, or numbers) isn’t something to be fixed or discouraged. It’s part of how their brain is wired—and it’s beautiful. When we lean into their passion, we’re not just accepting them—we’re celebrating who they are.

So if your kid has 47 shark books, insists on wearing shark shirts daily, and talks about hammerheads before breakfast—you’re not alone. And more importantly, they're not wrong. They’ve found something that makes them feel safe, excited, and understood.

And honestly? We could all use a little more shark-like focus in our lives.

🦈 Looking for a jaw-some activity to do with your kiddo?
Dive into Shark Research Lab – Unit 1! It's packed with fin-tastic facts, coloring fun, and hands-on learning about your favorite sharks! 🐠🌊 Perfect for curious minds and ocean lovers of all ages! 💙

Let the underwater adventure begin! 🐋✨
https://www.freestyledesignco.online/schoolhouse/p/shark-research-study-unit-one