- Many autistic kids learn to talk, often later than other kids.
- In one study, about 7 in 10 kids without phrases at 4 were using phrases by 8.
- Pictures, signs and devices (AAC) help. They don't stop speech.
- Every child can communicate. Speech is one way, not the only way.
Do autistic kids learn to talk?
Many do. Autistic children often start talking later, and some take a long time. A study of more than 500 autistic children who weren't yet using phrases at age 4 found that by age 8:1
- About 70% were using phrases
- About 47% were speaking fluently
The children who were more likely to develop speech tended to have stronger nonverbal skills, like problem solving, and fewer social communication difficulties.1
Some autistic people stay nonspeaking or use very few words all their lives. Many of them understand a great deal and communicate well in other ways.
Will pictures or a speech device stop my child from talking?
No. This is one of the most common worries, and research has looked at it closely. A review of studies found that AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) did not reduce speech, and in many cases speech increased after AAC was introduced.2
AAC includes:3
- Picture cards and choice boards
- Signs and gestures
- Speech-generating devices and apps on a tablet
How can I help my child communicate?
- Offer two choices with pictures, and wait
- Say the word as your child points: "Juice."
- Talk about what your child is doing, in short phrases
- Treat a point, a picture or a tap as a real answer
- Holding back a snack until your child says the word
- Long questions and lots of talking
- Waiting for speech before trying pictures or AAC
Who can help?
A speech-language pathologist (SLP) can assess how your child understands and communicates, and suggest the right mix of speech and AAC.4 Children under 3 can be evaluated through early intervention, and older children through their school district.
What can I try this week?
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