Theory of Mind (ToM) — "Mind Reading" (心智解读)

Theory of Mind (ToM) ('mind reading', 心智解读) is an advanced key course of socialisation in autism. This is work on the ability to understand that another person has their own thoughts, feelings, desires, and beliefs, sometimes different from yours. In children with ASD this ability develops with delay or atypically — hence the misunderstanding of facial expressions, intentions, jokes, and the perspective 'through someone else's eyes'. Theory of Mind is the path to genuine social interaction: without understanding the other person, any communication remains formal.

At the H&B Neurolife International Rehabilitation Center in Shangrao, the course follows a step-by-step system — from recognising basic emotions (joy, anger, sadness, fear) on faces, through reading expressions and tone of voice, to understanding the link between desires, thoughts, and behaviour, to the perspective 'through someone else's eyes' and the understanding of false beliefs. The principles — first 'read yourself', then others; visual support (pictures, cards, animation); a story-based, play-based, everyday format. The method is introduced at the advanced stages of the programme, when the child already has speech and a basic cognitive foundation. It is effective in combination with Super Skills, PCI (Parent–Child Interaction), and ABA.

Advantages of the method as delivered at the centre: a step-by-step system from simple to complex; visual support with pictures, cards, and animation; real-life scenarios ready for application; playful interactivity; addresses the core of ASD — 'not understanding people'; preparation for kindergarten and school.

What matters for the parent

Theory of Mind is the 'missing link' for many children with ASD who already have speech and cognition but weakly developed social contact. The course works in a targeted way with the core of this deficit. Family + centre = constant practice in life: parents are coached to support development in daily-living scenarios — discussing cartoons, analysing conflicts, observing the emotions of people around.