Trying to figure out how to stop scripting by a child with autism is a puzzle for parents in our position. In this article we give you some tactics to try.

What is autistic scripting

Scripting is a common behaviour among children with autism, and it involves repeating lines or phrases from films, TV shows, or books.

It is often used as a way to communicate, cope with being overwhelmed, or just as a mechanism for the child to express themselves.

Scripting phrases may also serve as a sort of backup for when autistic kids feel pressure to think of something to say, especially in a group setting.

How to stop scripting

Like a lot of quirky behaviours, scripting comes with the same question… should you try to stop it?

Scripting or any other repetitive behaviour may be a coping mechanism for your child. It may be that without it their behaviour may otherwise deteriorate.

Also you wouldn’t want for example for them to regress back into their shell and not try to interact in any way.

What should parents do?

Like anything to do with autism it is dependent on the child and your own personal situation.

In some ways it is extremely frustrating for parents because their child is so close to conversations but still seems so far.

Instead of outright trying to stop your child, you can try to use it as a stepping stone and try to tease conversations out of them.

For instance, if your child is using a script to initiate a conversation, you can encourage them to learn a follow on statement.

Say for example your child’s favourite film/movie is Disney’s Moana and they script the line ““I am Moana of Motunui”.

You could try to bolt on some relevant conversive words afterwards.

Try repeating your child and then adding on something such as “I am Moana of Montunui… and I need to put my coat on“.

Or “I am Moana of Montunui… and I want a banana” assuming you think your child is hungry.

You could then try and move further by adding more relevant words and removing some of the script.

“I am Moana, and I need to put on my coat because it’s cold outside“

Professional help

If your child continues to script and you feel it is holding back their development you could always consider bringing in the professionals.

A speech therapist who is trained to work with autistic children may be able make progress.

Whenever you are using a therapist we would always recommend you to take notes about the methods they are using.

Depending on your financial situation, therapists can be extremely expensive.

So what many parents do is use the professionals for a short period of time before mimicking their tactics at home.

Summary – How to stop scripting in autism

Scripting is a common behaviour among children with autism, where they repeat lines or phrases from movies, YouTube videos or TV shows.

It can be used as a way to communicate, or express themselves.

Instead of trying to stop scripting altogether, parents can try to use it as a stepping stone towards regular speech.

You could consider working with a therapist to expedite the process.

The goal is to support their well-being and overall development.