Helping a non-speaking autistic child communicate can be a rewarding journey filled with compassionate approaches and practical strategies. As each child with autism is unique, finding the right methods to support their communication can empower them to express their thoughts, needs, and feelings. From assistive technology to visual supports and alternative communication methods, there are various ways to help non-speaking autistic children connect with the world around them. In this guide, we’ll explore effective ways to support their communication development, creating meaningful pathways for connection and understanding.
1. Use Visual Supports
Visual supports are great tools to help non speaking autistic child to communicate. Examples of visual supports are PECS, Visual Schedules and choice boards. Picture Exchange Communication Systems, or PECS, allow the kids to use pictures to communicate what they want. Visual schedules show the child their daily routine with pictures, so they know what’s coming next. Choice Boards provide pictures or symbols that allow the child to choose between options.Â
My son was first introduced to PECS when he started doing ABA Therapy. With the use of pictures he learned to express his needs. In ABA therapy, they focus a lot on building these foundational skills. At first, my son learned to hand over a picture of what he wanted, like a picture of a cookie if he wanted a snack. It was incredible to see how he gradually understood that this exchange could help him communicate with us, even without using words. It made such a difference. PECS became a bridge for him—it helped him connect with us in a way that felt easier and less frustrating for him. And even though it took time and practice, it was one of those moments where we felt like we were finally starting to understand each other better.
2. AAC Devices
Augmentative and Alternative Communication Devices or just AAC devices can range from simple apps on tablets to more advanced speech-generating devices. These help non speaking autistic kids to communicate. They can help a child express their needs and feelings through images, words, or phrases. There are different types of AAC devices. They range from low tech to high tech, simple software applications you can install on a normal tablet to very expensive tablet devices.Â
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When I did some research on the devices I was shocked to find that the tablets can range from $5000 to $12 000 if you are making a private purchase. However here in Ontario Canada, the government provides the device on a lease term until the child turns 18. You can just apply through the nearest approved children’s hospital near you to go through the assessment. Unfortunately After the assessment my son did not qualify for the high tech option because he doesn’t have much expressive language. They did however make a customized communication book for him that is what’s called low tech. That’s what he is using now until he gains more expressive language then he can get a high tech AAC.
3. Sign Language & Gestures
Teaching basic sign language or simple gestures can be a bridge to help non speaking autistic child enhance their communication. You don’t have to become an expert, but teaching simple signs like ‘eat,’ ‘drink,’ or ‘more’ can be a great way for your child to express themselves.Â
Gestures were the first form of communication that my son used. Before he had any words or even pictures to express himself, he would use simple gestures to let us know what he needed or wanted. He would reach out his hand when he wanted something, like a toy that was just out of reach, or he’d push something away when he didn’t want it. It was also a reminder that communication is more than just speaking—it’s about finding ways to connect, whether it’s through a gesture, a look, or even a little nudge.
4. Model Communication
Modeling communication is key. When you’re using those visual supports or signs, make sure to model how they work. For example, if you’re using a picture board, point to the picture and say the word out loud. This helps your child understand how to use these tools themselves.
When my son was using PECS, if he handed a picture of a toy or food I would always label it for him. That is how he started to verbally identify the things and he soon started to request verbally without prompting. For example if he wants juice he just started saying juice without the need to find a picture first. Now we are doing the same with his AAC where we model sentences for him.
5. Focus on Joint Attention
Many autistic children struggle with joint attention and that affects their communication skills. You can build joint attention by engaging in activities that encourage shared focus, such as pointing to pictures in a book, looking at objects together, or playing simple games. Joint attention is important when you are trying to help a non speaking autistic child to communicate in that it helps build that foundation of back-and-forth communication, even without words.
With my son I found that reading picture books of things he likes or playing with toys he likes helped in getting him interested in engaging with me. He actually waits for you to do a voice and you can see the expectation on his face. So start with whatever your child is interested in.
6. Use Play-Based Learning
Play-based learning can be so powerful! If your child loves a certain toy or game, use it as a way to encourage communication. Play is a natural way to engage with them, and it’s amazing what a simple turn-taking game can do for their communication skills.
My son’s therapy options are play based. We do play based ABA and play based Speech therapy. This takes away the pressure that comes with learning new things. In play-based ABA, for example, the therapist uses activities that my son already enjoys—like playing with helicopters as a way to teach him new skills. It’s a natural and fun way for him to learn without even realizing that he’s working on important things like communication or following directions. The therapist follows his lead, and they turn it into a learning opportunity. This way, it feels less like a task he has to do and more like an exciting game. He’s smiling and having fun during the whole process. There’s no pressure, no frustration—just him learning at his own pace through play.
7. Use Simple Language
Keep your language simple and clear. Speak in short, simple phrases that match the child’s developmental level. For example, instead of saying, Put your shoes on. You can just say shoes on. It’s easier for your child to understand, and repetition helps reinforce those words.
We started with one word identifiers. Like when I wanted him to put on his shoes I would just say JAY shoes while holding the shoes. Then we moved to SHOES ON Jay, Now I tell him Jay put on your shoes and he understands perfectly. The next phase would be adding some description words like put on the red shoes. I always mention his name so that he knows I am talking to him specifically especially when there are other people around.
8. Focus on Their Interests
Build communication opportunities around what the child is naturally interested in. If they like a particular toy or activity, use that as a way to motivate communication.
My son loves playing with helicopters, we have used that for him to learn colors, prepositions, pretend play and stuff like turn taking. If its colors, I ask him what color is the helicopter? Which helicopter do you want? To encourage him to choose I can hold a helicopter and a book and ask which one he wants. When he is playing with his favorite helicopter I ask him to give his brother a turn. The turn first lasted for less than a minute but now he is slowly allowing him to play with it for longer times. Just putting something he is interested in first has helped him learn more communication skills.
9. Consider Speech Therapy
Notice how I didn’t start with considering speech therapy right off the bet. This is because not everyone has access to it as it can be expensive if you are paying out of pocket.
Speech therapy is another great option. A speech-language pathologist can create a plan tailored to your child, using AAC, social communication strategies, and more. They’ll work alongside you to find the best way to support your child’s communication journey.
My son has been doing speech therapy for 4 years now. Over the years, his speech therapist has become such an important part of his life. She understands his unique way of communicating and has been so patient with him. They’ve built a connection that makes him feel comfortable enough to try new things, even when it’s challenging. Now he is no longer considered as non verbal. Although we can’t have a long conversation yet, he can now say short sentences and can name things verbally.
10. Patience & Positivity
Lastly, remember to be patient and positive. Progress might be slow, and that’s okay! Celebrate every small win along the way, and keep creating a low-pressure environment where your child feels safe to explore communication. Don’t put pressure on the child to use verbal communication. Embrace that non verbal communication. It is the foundation to them understanding communication and building confidence to finally use words. It took 5 years for my son to say his first clear word and 7 years for him to say out a full sentence.
Supporting a non-speaking autistic child in communication is a journey that requires patience, creativity, and adaptability. By exploring various methods—whether it’s through technology, visual aids, or alternative forms of expression—you can create opportunities for them to share their voice in ways that feel natural and comfortable. Every small step toward understanding strengthens your connection and builds their confidence. Remember, progress may come gradually, but with consistency and compassion, you’re helping to open doors to a more inclusive and communicative world for your child.
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