Understanding Different Communication Methods for Autistic Children

Communication is one of the most common concerns parents have when it comes to their autistic child. Not being able to communicate well together brings a lot of frustration to both the caregiver and to the child, wreaking havoc on an already overwhelmed nervous system. An important distinction to understand about communication is that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to communicating. A lot of focus gets put on speech, but some children are able to express their needs more effectively through other methods. Understanding the different methods can help parents see more clearly how their child might already be trying to communicate with them.

ABA therapy helps your child establish the communication method they are most comfortable with, and works with your family to grow and build the skills that will allow them to express themselves with confidence.

Communication: More Than Words

When thinking about communication, the default assumption is to imagine speaking out loud. But realistically, communication is simply any method that allows a person to share their thoughts, feelings, emotions, and preferences. Beyond spoken words, it can be through body language, facial expressions, gestures, or visual systems. There is no right or wrong way to communicate. Some autistic children have delayed speech development or don’t feel comfortable speaking out loud. Communication is still there - it’s just a matter of meeting them where they’re at. 

Body Language

It’s not abnormal for any child to communicate with their body long before they utter a single spoken word. Think about a baby pointing at an object, reaching to be picked up, crying when their diaper is wet. Body language and gestures can continue to be a strong communication tool, as long as you’re open to understanding it. If your child prefers body movements as a way to communicate, their ABA therapist will work with them to strengthen this into a more structured and effective type of communication. 

Visual Supports

Visual supports are often talked about within ABA therapy, and for good reason. Visual aids provide consistent, predictable, and easy to understand meanings for both parties. The best visual aid is simply the one that your child feels the most comfortable with. That may include:

• Picture cards

• Choice boards

• Visual schedules

• Symbol-based communication systems

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)

AAC tools are used as a replacement or support for spoken communication. These are more in depth options that allow children to communicate more complex needs than other methods might allow. These might include:

• Picture Exchange Communication Systems (PECS): This uses pictures in a book or on a board attached with velcro. Children start simply using single cards, but eventually work up to variations of card combinations that reflect more complex requests or thoughts. 

• Communication Apps: These can be used on a tablet or cell phone, providing an accessible and easy to use way for the child to communicate. They may feature pictures, text, or a combination of both.

• Speech-Generating Devices: A speech-generating device will take input a child gives it via pictures, symbols, or words and generate it into spoken words. 

These tools provide ways to communicate things that aren’t as easy to express through simpler tools. They are a great asset, even while verbal speech is still developing. 

Verbal Communication

Many autistic children eventually use verbal language as their primary communication method. This can continue to be developed even while utilizing another communication tool. ABA therapy supports verbal communication growth through modeling, interaction, and providing the opportunity for communication during daily activities. 

Supporting Communication Styles At Home

It’s important to understand that no matter which communication style your child prefers, these skills will continue to develop at your child’s own pace. It takes time and practice to grow, and parents play an important role in supporting that growth. Recognizing and encouraging any and all forms of communication will help your child feel understood and empowered, encouraging them to continue expressing themselves - in their own way. To help at home, you can: 

• Offer choices

• Model language

• Use visual supports

• Respond consistently 

• Celebrate progress

How ABA Therapy with Bloom Behavioral Healthcare Can Help 

Communication development is one of the biggest priorities throughout ABA therapy with Bloom Behavioral Healthcare. We work with both child and family to determine what communication method comes the most naturally and feels the most comfortable to them. Together, we will create goals that fit their needs, working to build skills to help them communicate and express themselves confidently. 

To learn more about how ABA therapy can support your child’s communication, development, and confidence, contact Bloom Behavioral Healthcare today. We’re happy to answer any questions or guide you through our process.