Table 2 Categories of the metaphors created by preschool teachers regarding the concept of “autism” and the reasons for using them

Hopefulness

Stairs

“Each step, each training is a step closer to the top for the individual with autism.” (PT5)

Precious stones

“…After being processed patiently, it dazzles everyone with its features.” (PT7)

The sun shining while snowing

“Even if the weather is very cold or it is a cold season, there is a reflected light. There is hope that the weather will get warmer and nicer.” (PT34)

Seashell

“If you can hear what the seashell whispers to you, it will whisper the most beautiful song in the world into your ear.” (PT16)

Distinctness

Rainbow

“It carries a different beauty in each of its different features.” (PT35)

Snowflake

“They are all different and special from each other. When you dig deep and investigate, you can see many different and unique beauties.” (PT27)

Privilege

“Focusing on a single subject allows them to develop special skills and abilities.” (PT42)

Despair

A knotted rope

“It is a complex set of behaviors that are difficult to analyze.” (PT33)

Rushing waters

“They don't fit in one place; they are very mobile and hyperactive.” (PT12)

A fish swimming against the current

“The harder you try, the more difficulties you will face.” (PT18)

Obscurity

Space

“Autism is like an endless void with no boundaries. We don't know what will await us. What we don't know scares us.…” (PT30)

Gift box

“We never know what surprise will come out of it.” (PT38)

A sealed envelope

“We can't know what's going on inside her, what she's thinking and what she's feeling.” (PT45)