Having trouble inspiring a child with autism to use words? Tackle foundational communication skills—not just language skills—by infusing fun and silliness into sessions.
“I don’t understand—my son has words. He just doesn’t use them.”
I’ve heard that sentence more times than I can count, especially from parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A child with ASD who has words and doesn’t use them probably has greater issues affecting language use.
So before we start working on language, we need to look at these other issues. For children to talk, they first and foremost have to be motivated. And many children who lack motivation also have deficits in their regulation and engagement, the foundational skills needed for successful communication.
Read the full article on ASHA by clicking here.