We should also bear in mind that not everyone does small talk, autistic or not. There’s no shame in being you, if you don’t feel like talking, then don’t. Awkward silences are only awkward because we make them so. After 40+ years I adore silence, whether there is someone in the room or not, if they want to talk to me go ahead, but I sure as shit aren’t going to initiate a conversation unless I am interested in them in some way.
We should also bear in mind that not everyone does small talk, autistic or not. There’s no shame in being you, if you don’t feel like talking, then don’t. Awkward silences are only awkward because we make them so. After 40+ years I adore silence, whether there is someone in the room or not, if they want to talk to me go ahead, but I sure as shit aren’t going to initiate a conversation unless I am interested in them in some way.