If you have an autistic child that keeps asking the same question repeatedly, this is the article for you.

We explain what is behind the behaviour and what you can do about it moving forward.

Autism and repeating questions

The first thing to note is that this is a common behaviour, with many parents being in the same boat as you.

Undoubtedly it can be perplexing and even frustrating at times, but it’s essential to recognise that this behavior is rooted in your child’s condition.

They are not trying to be annoying in any way shape or form.

Let’s explore why autistic children may keep repeating the same question and how parents can better understand and support their child.

Communication

It will come as no great shock to those reading that communication issues are one of the most common challenges for autistic children.

Autistic children may struggle with both verbal and non-verbal communication.

This makes it challenging for them to express their thoughts and understand the responses they receive.

Repetitive questioning can be a way for them to try and express themselves without having full speech capabilities.

There are some positives which can be drawn from repetitive questions. Firstly it is that your child has speech at all.

There are many parents with autistic children who would give anything to hear their child ask a question.

Secondly there is the fact that your child obviously wants to interact with you.

Yes they are asking the same question but they want interaction, which is great.

Predicability

Autistic kids often thrive in environments that provide predictability and routine.

Repetition of one or two sentences can offer a sense of security and stability.

Asking the same question repeatedly may be their way of seeking reassurance about a situation or event.

This can end up helping them feel more in control.

In addition there is the predicability of the words themselves. Your child will feel confident speaking those words in that order.

They may struggle with a wider range of speech so they feel confident and comfortable with their familiar question.

Expression of anxiety

Sadly anxiety is a common companion to autism.

Repetitive questioning may be a manifestation of that anxiety.

By asking the same question, an autistic child might be trying to alleviate their stress by obtaining consistent responses that help them feel secure.

A common situation is when meeting new people. This can be extremely daunting for an autistic child.

They may default to a repetitive question such as “what’s your name?” as a way of calming themselves.

Sensory guarding

As we know, many autistic children have heightened sensory sensitivities.

These sensitivities can be linked to the repetitive questioning.

They may ask repetitive questions to gain a better understanding of their sensory experiences.

For example, if they ask about the where they are going repeatedly, it could be because they are trying to gauge how their sensory sensitivities will be affected.

While they are asking “where are we going Mom?” what they really mean is “will there be loud noises and bright lights Mom?”.

What parents can do if their autistic child keep asking the same question repeatedly

Naturally each child is different but here are some considerations for dealing with this behaviour.

Patience

It’s crucial for parents to approach repetitive questioning with patience and understanding.

Remember this as a coping mechanism for them trying to navigate a difficult world. Show empathy and provide the answers they seek calmly and consistently.

Use routine

Establishing routines can help reduce anxiety and the need for repetitive questioning.

Create a structured daily schedule so your child knows what to expect where possible.

Communicate any changes in advance and use tools such as schedule boards to assist.

Develop the question

One way of expanding conversations is to try and develop the question your child is asking.

For example if they are asking “what’s for dinner?” you could answer with “chicken nuggets, what would you like for dessert?”.

With time your child may start asking what is for dinner and for dessert.

Baby steps of course but you can expand further by moving onto what is happening after dinner.

The goal here would be to tease other words out of your child without making them uncomfortable.

Consider visual aids

Parents may want to try alternative methods of communication, such as visual aids or sign language.

These other ways of communicating help your child express themselves more effectively.

These tools can reduce frustration and repetitive questioning.

Some parents are concerned that their child will start to rely on these other forms of communication. However it has been shown that to the contrary they have been shown to help develop speech.

If using pictures or sign language the key is to always accompany the aid with clear, slow speech.

Summary – Autistic child keeps asking the same question repeatedly?

Understanding why autistic children may repeat the same question is a vital step toward providing them with the support they need.

Repetitive questioning is often a means of coping with the challenges they face in an overwhelming world.

By offering patience and love parents can help their child with this aspect of their unique journey.

Embrace the opportunity to connect with your child on a deeper level and appreciate the beauty of their unique perspectives.