Autism and Communication: Understanding Differences and Supporting Development

A comprehensive guide to how autism affects communication and strategies to support your child's unique communication needs.

Reviewed by Jennifer Harbour, M.S., BCBA

•Published: January 15, 2025

Our Perspective

"Communication is about connection, not just words. In my 20+ years working with autistic children, I've seen remarkable progress when we meet each child where they are and build from their strengths. Whether through verbal language, AAC, or other methods, every child can learn to communicate their needs, thoughts, and feelings. The key is finding the right approach for each individual."

Communication differences are one of the core characteristics of autism spectrum disorder. However, the way these differences present varies enormously.

This ranges from individuals who are nonverbal to those who are highly articulate but struggle with social aspects of communication.

How Autism Affects Communication

According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, communication challenges in autism can affect both understanding (receptive language) and expression (expressive language), as well as the social use of language (pragmatics).

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 (sometimes called nonspeaking autism) describes autistic individuals who don't use spoken language to communicate. According to research cited by Autism Speaks, approximately 25-30% of autistic individuals are minimally verbal or nonverbal.

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 (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) refers to any method that supplements or replaces spoken language. The ASHA emphasizes that AAC is appropriate for anyone whose communication needs are not being met by speech alone.

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 one of the most common misconceptions. Research consistently shows that AAC does not hinder speech development and often supports it.

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 development in autism follows diverse paths. According to the CDC, communication differences are among the earliest signs 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

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does autism affect communication?

Autism affects communication in various ways: some individuals may be nonverbal or have limited speech, while others are highly verbal but struggle with social aspects of communication. Common challenges include difficulty with back-and-forth conversation, understanding nonverbal cues, taking things literally, and knowing what to say in social situations.

What is nonverbal autism?

Nonverbal autism describes autistic individuals who do not use spoken language to communicate. About 25-30% of autistic people are minimally verbal or nonverbal. Being nonverbal doesn't mean someone can't communicate – many use alternative methods like AAC devices, sign language, picture systems, or written communication.

What is AAC and how does it help autistic people?

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) refers to methods that supplement or replace spoken language. This includes picture exchange systems (PECS), communication boards, sign language, and speech-generating devices or apps. AAC helps nonverbal or minimally verbal individuals express needs, thoughts, and feelings.

Will using AAC prevent my child from learning to speak?

No – research consistently shows that AAC does not hinder speech development and often supports it. Reducing communication frustration through AAC can actually encourage verbal attempts. AAC should be introduced as early as possible and never withheld in hopes of 'forcing' speech to develop.

How can I help my autistic child communicate?

Strategies include: following their lead and interests, using visual supports, giving extra processing time, reducing communication demands when stressed, modeling language without requiring responses, introducing AAC if helpful, working with speech-language pathologists, and accepting all forms of communication (not just speech).

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.