Raising an autistic child can be rewarding and challenging, in this article we look into the link between autism and whole hand pointing.

Children typically learn to point around 12-18 months of age as a way to communicate their needs and interests to others.

This is usually a behaviour which the child picks up on their own and is often one of the first forms of communication they develop.

However with autism that may not be the case.

Autism and Pointing

Parents of autistic children will be alive to various quirks and unique activities relating to their child’s development.

One factor which often arises is either a child with autisms apparent inability to point or them engaging in whole hand pointing.

Every child is special, and for those on the autism spectrum, their experiences and expressions might differ from what society deems as “typical.”

In this article, we aim to shed light on this behaviour, providing insights and understanding that will help parents embrace their child’s differences with compassion and love.

Communication difficulties

Communication is a fundamental aspect of child interaction, and it comes in various forms.

For many neurotypical children, pointing is an instinctual way to express their desires, needs, or direct attention to something of interest.

However, autistic children may exhibit communication differences that hinder the use of conventional methods like pointing.

Expressive language struggles

For some autistic children, the development of expressive language can be delayed or limited.

Pointing requires the ability to combine motor skills and communication comprehension to convey intentions effectively.

If a child struggles with expressing themselves verbally, they might find it challenging to incorporate pointing into their communication repertoire.

Joint attention

Autism can impact social communication skills, including the understanding of joint attention.

This us the ability to share focus on an object or event with others.

Pointing is a social act, involving the acknowledgment of someone else’s perspective and the desire to share an experience.

Autistic children might prefer individual play or interactions, which could lead to less frequent pointing behaviours.

Ok but why do they use whole hand pointing?

Well that is the million dollar question.

An autistic child may point with their whole hand or fist due to various reasons. These are often related to their sensory and motor differences.

Pointing in this manner is known as “palm or closed fist pointing,” and it is a unique form of communication that some autistic individuals may use.

Understanding the reasons behind this behavior can provide valuable insights into their needs and preferences.

Motor skills

Autistic kids may have difficulties with fine motor skills, making it challenging to isolate and control individual fingers for pointing.

Using the whole hand or fist can be a more accessible and efficient way for them to communicate their intentions.

Motor planning

Planning and executing coordinated movements can be complex for some autistic children.

If you think about it there is quite a lot involved with a point.

You have to plot in your mind what you are pointing at, who you are communicating with and ensure that your finger is heading in the correct direction.

Closed fist pointing might be a simpler motor action for them to execute compared to the more refined and precise movement required for traditional pointing.

Visual processing

Pointing with the whole hand or fist might also be related to how an autistic child processes visual information.

It could be an instinctual way for them to direct attention to specific objects or areas without needing to focus on the fine details of pointing with a single finger.

Sensory needs

Autistic children frequently experience sensory sensitivities, where they may be hypersensitive to certain textures or sensations.

Using their whole hand or fist to point could be a way to control the input they receive when interacting with objects or pointing to things.

It may in short feel more comfortable for them to use this type of touch rather than a single finger.

This is a bit like the common behaviour of autistic children walking on their tip toes. We as neurotypical parents may question how can this be more comfortable?

But the reality is that the world can feel a little differently to autistic children, hence the preference for a closed fist.

What should parents do?

Different parents will have different viewpoints in terms of if intervention is required.

If you decide you would like to improve your child’s pointing there are various methods to try.

Lead by example

Autistic children are like any other child in that they can pick up gestures and habits from parents.

You could make a conscious effort to point throughout the day in front of your child to expose them to the gesture.

When you are reading books, shopping, out at parks or wherever, be sure to spend a lot of time pointing.

Use gesture cards

There are various forms of non verbal communication tools available, such as these from Amazon.

You could use the pointing gesture card at regular occasions throughout the day when you are pointing.

Many autistic children are visual learners so using a picture of someone pointing may pay dividends.

Use technology

Opinion is often divided on the exposure to electronic devices for autistic children. If you do allow your child to watch YouTube you can single out some pointing videos.

Put simply there are videos aimed at children on every subject imaginable. Find one related to pointing and save it as a favourite.

Be patient

Rome wasn’t built in a day. Teaching a child to point properly can take time. Allow yourself and your child suitable time to engrain this new gesture.

Summary – Whole hand pointing and autism

An autistic child may point with their whole hand or fist due to a wide range of reasons.

As parents and wider society, it’s vital to respect and embrace these unique ways of communication, promoting acceptance and understanding of neurodiversity.

Encouraging alternative communication methods that suit their needs and providing support will help these children thrive and connect with the world around them on their terms.

With time and support, your child may learn to use pointing and other gestures to communicate more effectively.

Feel free to browse our archive for more tips and help with raising an autistic child.  Alternatively you can go to either the UK’s National Autistic Society or the US Autism Association.