Autism and Communication: Understanding Differences and Supporting Development
A complete guide on autism communication. Learn strategies to support your child's unique needs.
Our Perspective
"Communication is connection, not just words. I have seen great progress in 20 years. We meet each child where they are. Every child can learn to share their needs and feelings. We just need the right approach."
Communication issues are key in autism. But they look different for everyone.
This ranges from individuals who are nonverbal to those who are highly articulate but struggle with social aspects of communication.
How Autism Affects Communication
The ASHA says autism affects how we speak and understand. It also affects social skills.
Expressive Communication
- Delayed speech development
- Limited or no spoken language
- Unusual speech patterns (tone, rhythm)
- Echolalia (repeating words/phrases)
- Difficulty finding the right words
- Scripted or formal speech
Receptive Communication
- Difficulty understanding complex language
- Taking things very literally
- Missing sarcasm or jokes
- Processing delays
- Difficulty following multi-step instructions
- Confusion with abstract concepts
Pragmatic (Social) Communication
- Difficulty with back-and-forth conversation
- Trouble reading body language and facial expressions
- Not knowing what to say or when to speak
- Difficulty staying on topic
- Talking extensively about special interests
- Challenges with perspective-taking
- Appearing blunt or "rude" unintentionally
Understanding Nonverbal Autism
Nonverbal autism means not using spoken words. About 25-30% of autistic people are nonverbal. This is what research from Autism Speaks shows.
Important Facts About Nonverbal Autism
- Nonverbal ≠ non-communicating: Everyone communicates, just in different ways
- Nonverbal ≠ low intelligence: Many nonverbal individuals have average or above-average IQ
- Some may develop speech later: Language can emerge at any age
- Understanding may exceed expression: Many understand more than they can say
- AAC can unlock communication: Alternative methods can be highly effective
Minimally Verbal vs. Nonverbal
Some individuals are described as "minimally verbal," meaning they use some spoken words but have very limited functional speech. This might include:
- Using single words or short phrases
- Speaking mostly through echolalia
- Having speech that's difficult to understand
- Using speech only in certain situations
AAC: Augmentative and Alternative Communication
AAC aids or replaces speech. The ASHA says it is for anyone who needs help communicating.
Types of AAC
Low-Tech AAC
- Picture Exchange (PECS): Trading pictures to communicate
- Communication boards: Pointing to symbols/words
- Visual schedules: Picture-based routines
- Sign language: Manual signs
- Written communication: Writing, typing
High-Tech AAC
- Speech-generating devices (SGD): Dedicated communication devices
- AAC apps: Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, LAMP
- Tablets with AAC software: iPad-based systems
- Eye-gaze systems: For those with motor challenges
Will AAC prevent speech development?
No. This is a myth. Research shows AAC often helps speech develop.
By reducing communication frustration, AAC can actually encourage verbal attempts. Never withhold AAC in hopes of "forcing" speech to develop – this only increases frustration and limits communication.
Speech Development in Autism
Speech starts differently for everyone. The CDC notes this is often an early sign of autism.
Early Speech Patterns
- May babble less or differently as infants
- First words may be delayed or unusual (non-social words)
- Some children develop words then lose them (regression)
- May start speaking later but develop strong language skills
- Echolalia often appears before functional speech
Unique Speech Characteristics
- Prosody differences: Unusual rhythm, pitch, or intonation
- Pronoun reversal: Saying "you" instead of "I"
- Echolalia: Repeating heard phrases (see our echolalia guide)
- Scripting: Using memorized phrases from movies, books, etc.
- Literal language: Difficulty with idioms and figurative speech
- Advanced vocabulary: Some develop sophisticated vocabulary early
Strategies to Support Communication
1. Follow Their Lead
- Join in their interests and activities
- Communicate about what they're focused on
- Let them guide the interaction sometimes
- Show genuine interest in their topics
2. Use Visual Supports
- Picture schedules for routines
- Visual choice boards
- Social stories for new situations
- Written instructions alongside verbal
3. Give Processing Time
- Wait 5-10 seconds after asking a question
- Avoid repeating or rephrasing immediately
- Reduce background noise when communicating
- Give one instruction at a time
4. Model Language
- Narrate activities without expecting responses
- Use simple, clear language
- Expand on their communication attempts
- Model AAC use if using AAC
5. Reduce Communication Demands When Stressed
- Avoid asking questions during overwhelm
- Accept non-verbal communication
- Don't require "use your words"
- Recognize that speech may be lost temporarily under stress
6. Accept All Communication
- Respond to gestures, pointing, leading you
- Acknowledge echolalia as meaningful
- Value AAC as equal to speech
- Recognize behavior as communication
Working with Professionals
Several professionals can support communication development:
Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)
Specializes in all aspects of communication including speech, language, AAC, and feeding. Essential for comprehensive communication support.
Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
Works on functional communication through ABA therapy, often collaborating with SLPs.
AAC Specialist
Helps select, program, and train in the use of AAC systems specific to individual needs.
Occupational Therapist
Addresses motor skills that may affect communication (signing, using devices) and sensory needs.
Start Your Child's Journey Today
Buzz ABA provides comprehensive, evidence-based ABA therapy in Concord, Manchester, Nashua, and surrounding NH communities. Our neurodiversity-affirming approach helps children thrive.
Start Your JourneyFrequently Asked Questions
How does autism affect communication?
It varies a lot. Some are nonverbal. Others talk but find social skills hard. Common struggles include conversations and body language. Literal thinking is also common.
What is nonverbal autism?
It means not using spoken words. About 25-30% of autistic people are nonverbal. But they can still communicate. They use signs, pictures, or devices.
What is AAC and how does it help autistic people?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It replaces or helps speech. Tools include pictures, signs, and tablets. It helps people share their thoughts.
Will using AAC prevent my child from learning to speak?
No. Research shows it often helps speech. It lowers frustration. This can encourage talking. AAC should start early.
How can I help my autistic child communicate?
Follow their interests. Use pictures and signs. Give them time to think. Model words for them. Accept all ways they communicate.
Related Resources
AAC Devices & Tools Guide
Complete guide to AAC devices and communication tools.
Understanding Echolalia
Learn about echolalia and its role in language development.
Our Communication Services
Learn how our ABA therapy supports communication development.
Free PDF with visual support templates and strategies.
Visual Supports Templates
Free downloadable visual supports and daily routine templates.
Autism Signs & Symptoms
Comprehensive guide to recognizing autism at every age.