Communication difficulties are one of if not the most common struggle with raising an autistic child. Below we go through some of the ways how an autistic child can communicate.

Verbal Communication

We will start with the obvious.

Some autistic children may be able to communicate verbally to varying degrees.

Depending on the extent of their difficulties they may struggle with language and may have difficulty expressing themselves in a way that others can understand.

An autistic child may repeat words or phrases, speak in a monotone voice, or have trouble with the rhythm and tone of their speech.

Some autistic children and adults have full verbal communication with no struggles whatsoever.

PEC’s

PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) is a form of communication that uses pictures to help individuals with difficulties, including autism to express themselves.

The system involves using a set of pictures, such as symbols or photographs, that represent words, objects, or actions. The individual selects a picture to communicate their wants and needs to their communication partner, who then responds to their request.

The goal of PECS is to improve communication and social interaction skills, and it can be used in a variety of settings, including schools and homes.

Traditional sign language

Another option for autistic children and adults is to try traditional sign languages.

American Sign Language: ASL is a visual language that uses hand gestures, facial expressions, and body language to communicate. It is a complete language with its own grammar and syntax, and it is widely used in the United States and Canada.Sign Supported

English (SSE): SSE is a form of sign language that uses signs from a national sign language, such as ASL, but also incorporates elements of spoken English. It can be used to support language and literacy development in children with communication difficulties.

Makaton

Along the same vein as traditional sign language, Makaton is another option.

Makaton is a sign language system that uses a combination of signs and symbols to support communication. It is widely used in the UK and is designed to support language and communication development for children and adults with communication difficulties.

Makaton is generally seen as a more simplified version of traditional sign languages.

Writing

Depending on the child’s ability levels using writing to communicate is another option.

If the child does have basic writing skills they can use pen and paper or a digital device to write notes or messages to communicate with others.

For example, they can write a note to a teacher to request a break or write a message to a friend to invite them to play.

Speech output devices

Speech output devices are a type of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tool that can help autistic individuals with speech and language difficulties to communicate effectively. These devices use technology to generate spoken words or phrases, which the individual can use to communicate with others.

Summary

These are just a few of the ways how an autistic child can communicate.

Overall, it is important to remember that every autistic child is different, and what works for one child may not work for another.

However, with patience, understanding, and support, it is possible for autistic children to communicate effectively and express themselves in their own unique ways.