Some individuals with autism may also experience challenges with speech and language development. This is known as nonverbal autism, where the individual may have limited or no spoken language abilities.
The exact causes of nonverbal autism are not fully understood. However, several factors may contribute to the development of this condition. One possible reason is that the symptoms of autism worsen over time, making it increasingly difficult for individuals to develop and use spoken language effectively.
Additionally, apraxia, a motor speech disorder, can make it challenging for individuals to coordinate the necessary movements for speech production. Echolalia, the repetition of words or phrases, can also hinder clear communication and prevent the development of spontaneous language.
So if you have a nonverbal child, how can you teach them how to speak? Let’s find out!
Symptoms of Nonverbal Autism
Before we begin, let’s first have a look at the symptoms of nonverbal autism.
Nonverbal autism is characterized by a range of symptoms that affect social interaction, development, and behavior. Socially, individuals with nonverbal autism may have difficulties with eye contact, responding to their names, and engaging in reciprocal conversation. These challenges can lead to feelings of isolation and potential social withdrawal.
Developmentally, individuals with nonverbal autism may experience delays in reaching developmental milestones, especially in the areas of communication and speech. Some may show signs of regression, where they lose previously acquired skills or fail to make expected progress in language development after the age of 2 or 3.
Behaviorally, individuals with nonverbal autism may exhibit repetitive behaviors, strong adherence to routines, specific interests or obsessions, and a short attention span. These behavioral symptoms can impact their ability to communicate effectively and hinder the development of spoken language.
Teaching Autistic Children How to Speak
Teaching an autistic child to speak by promoting language development requires a multi-faceted approach. In this section, we’ll look at various strategies that parents and caregivers can use to teach their autistic child how to speak.
Social Engagement
Research suggests that social engagement plays a critical role in language development for nonverbal individuals with autism. Strong social engagement, coupled with the absence of intellectual disability, increases the likelihood of developing spoken language. Therefore, creating opportunities for social interaction is vital.
Engaging with the child in activities that encourage social interaction, such as games, turn-taking, and joint attention, can foster language development. By actively participating in social exchanges, the child is more likely to observe and imitate language, eventually leading to their own verbal expressions.
Play-Based Language Learning
Play-based activities have shown great success in helping children with nonverbal autism learn language. By incorporating language learning into play, children are more motivated and engaged.
By incorporating language within play, children with nonverbal autism can develop communication skills in a natural and enjoyable way.
Encouraging Vocalizations
Encouraging vocalizations is an important step in helping an autistic child develop speech. Even if the child’s vocalizations do not resemble words initially, they are a critical step towards communication. Responding positively to these vocalizations reinforces the child’s attempts to communicate.
To encourage vocalizations, create a supportive and responsive environment. Respond enthusiastically to any sounds the child makes, and provide positive reinforcement when they attempt to communicate.
Using gestures, facial expressions, and body language can also aid in encouraging vocalizations and overall communication.
Using Non-Verbal Communication
For children with non-verbal autism, focusing on non-verbal communication is essential. Non-verbal communication includes gestures, facial expressions, and body language. These are the basic building blocks for language development in children with non-verbal autism.
Encouraging and reinforcing non-verbal communication can help children to express their needs, wants, and emotions. Using visual supports, such as picture cards or a communication board, can aid in non-verbal communication.
Simplified Language Approach
A simplified language approach is another effective strategy for teaching an autistic child to speak. This approach involves using short and simple phrases, breaking down complex instructions, and following the child’s interests. By adapting language to the child’s level of comprehension, it becomes easier for them to understand and process information.
When using a simplified language approach, it’s important to provide visual cues and prompts to support comprehension. This can include using visual schedules or picture prompts that help the child understand and follow routines or instructions.
Assistive Devices and Visual Supports
Assistive devices and visual supports can play a significant role in supporting communication development in children with autism. These tools help to bridge the communication gap and provide additional support in expressing thoughts and ideas.
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, such as speech-generating devices or tablets with communication apps, can be used to facilitate communication. These devices allow children to select icons or symbols that represent words or phrases, which are then spoken aloud by the device.
Visual supports, such as visual schedules, social stories, and visual cues, can also enhance communication skills. These supports provide visual representations of tasks, routines, or expectations, making them easier to understand and follow.
Role of Families and Teachers
The role of families, teachers, and other caregivers is vital in supporting the language development of nonverbal children with autism.
By working closely with the child’s therapists and intervention team, families and teachers can provide the necessary support and guidance. They can create an environment that encourages communication and language development, while also considering the unique needs and preferences of the child.
Collaboration with therapists and intervention teams ensures that strategies and approaches are aligned, creating a cohesive and comprehensive support system for the child’s language development journey.