How to Help Your Autistic Child Communicate Better

Apr 03, 2025

Last month, I worked closely with the parents of an autistic child to develop their child's communication skills, and I want to share my personal step-by-step guide with you. By the end of this guide, you'll have actionable strategies to help your autistic child communicate more effectively. So, let's dive in!

Recognizing Communication Difficulties in Autistic Children

Before we explore solutions, it's important to recognize signs of communication difficulties in children with autism. Some common indicators include:

Limited to no spoken language
Difficulty understanding or using gestures
Struggles with eye contact and maintaining conversations
Repeating phrases out of context (Echolalia or "scripting")
Using gestures like guiding your hand instead of verbalizing needs

If you notice these signs, it's time to explore ways to support your child’s communication journey.

The Role of Speech Therapy

Speech therapy is one of the most effective interventions for children with autism. Sessions typically last 20-40 minutes and help in multiple ways:

Strengthening verbal skills through repeated practice
Improving nonverbal communication (gestures, facial expressions, etc.)
Introducing alternative communication systems like Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) or Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices
Addressing feeding challenges through feeding therapy

Research shows that 70-80% of autistic children make significant progress with early and consistent speech therapy. If you're considering professional intervention, working with a certified speech therapist can be incredibly beneficial.

Apps & Tools to Support Communication

Technology offers fantastic tools to support children with communication difficulties. Here are some highly recommended options:

AAC Devices & Apps

Proloquo2Go – A customizable AAC app using pictures, symbols, and text-to-speech for nonverbal children.
Tobii Dynavox – A device with communication boards and vocabulary support for children needing extensive speech assistance.

Tip: Work with a speech therapist to determine the right AAC device for your child.

Interactive iPad Games

Lingos Language Universe – A fun, interactive app teaching vocabulary, listening skills, and following instructions.
Articulation Station – Helps kids practice speech sounds through engaging games.

YouTube Learning Channels

Miss Rachel – A speech therapist who models sounds and words through songs in an engaging way.
Super Simple Songs – Uses easy-to-follow songs that help teach basic phrases, vocabulary, and sentence structure.

Other Communication Methods

PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) – Helps children request items and express feelings using pictures.
Sign Language – Basic signs like more, eat, help, break, and done can provide an early way to communicate.
Visual Schedules – Picture boards or apps showing daily routines and activities can enhance understanding.
Talking Buttons – Recordable buttons that allow children to express needs (e.g., "I'm hungry," "I need help").

Understanding AAC & Choosing the Right Approach

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) includes a range of tools and strategies to support communication. While some children benefit from AAC devices, others may do well with low-tech options like PECS.

Good to know: AAC devices can be expensive (around $1,000). Check with your insurance provider to see if coverage is available.

A speech therapist can assess whether an AAC system is right for your child and guide the transition from PECS to an AAC device over time.

Encouraging Communication at Home

Creating opportunities for communication in daily life is essential. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Model Communication

Wave when saying "hello" or "goodbye."
Encourage your child to imitate gestures and sounds.

2. Use Choices

Hold up a cup of juice and a cup of water, prompting them to point or verbalize their preference.
Reinforce their response by saying, "You chose juice! Great job!"

3. Expand Language Gradually

Start with one word (e.g., "car"), then expand ("red car," "It’s a car!").
If your child points to an object, ask, "Do you want the car?" and encourage them to say the word.

4. Engage in Play

Play is a natural way to build communication skills and joint attention.
Activities like reading together, looking at the same object, and interactive games can strengthen their ability to communicate.

5. Introduce Simple Sign Language

Even before verbal speech develops, sign language provides a way for nonverbal children to express themselves.
Start with basic signs like more, help, eat, water, and break.

Managing Frustration & Encouraging Progress

It's normal for children to feel frustrated when struggling to communicate. As a parent, staying calm and modeling patient behavior is crucial.

Tips for Handling Frustration:

Validate their emotions: "I see you're upset. Let's figure this out together."
Use pictures, gestures, or AAC devices to bridge the communication gap.
If they’re struggling to request a snack, show them a picture menu to help them choose.

Working with a Therapist

When working with a speech therapist or behavior analyst, here’s how to make the most of the sessions:

Discuss your child’s strengths, challenges, and preferences.
Set realistic communication goals together.
Be consistent in practicing communication strategies at home.

Final Thoughts

Helping your autistic child communicate better is a journey, but with patience, consistency, and the right tools, progress is absolutely possible! Whether through speech therapy, AAC devices, or simple daily interactions, each step brings your child closer to stronger communication skills.

If you found this guide helpful, share it with other parents who might need it. You're doing an amazing job supporting your child—keep going!