Communication & speech

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association's overview of AAC — what it is, who it helps, and the range of approaches from low-tech picture systems to dedicated speech-generating devices.

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)

Nonverbal

Describes an autistic person who does not communicate primarily through spoken words. "Nonverbal" does not mean "without language" — many nonverbal autistic people communicate through gestures, writing, sign, picture systems, or AAC devices.

AAC (augmentative and alternative communication)

Any communication method other than speech. AAC ranges from low-tech (picture cards, sign) to high-tech (speech-generating apps and devices). For nonverbal or minimally-speaking autistic people, AAC is a primary way to express needs and ideas — not a replacement that delays speech.

Echolalia

Repeating words or phrases heard from others, immediately or later. Echolalia is often a step in language learning, not a problem to fix. Many autistic people use echoed phrases meaningfully — quoting a line from a show, for example, to communicate a feeling.

Scripting

Repeating familiar phrases — from books, movies, conversations — to communicate, self-regulate, or rehearse. Scripting can be soothing and is often a route into spontaneous speech for autistic children.

Pragmatic language

The social side of language — taking turns in conversation, reading body language, knowing when to start and stop speaking. Many autistic people find pragmatic language harder than vocabulary or grammar, and it is often a focus in speech-language therapy.

Gestalt language processing

A style of language acquisition where the child first learns whole phrases (often from media, songs, or repeated adult speech) and only later breaks them down into individual words. Many autistic children are gestalt language processors. Recognising this style can change how speech-language therapy is structured.

Expressive language

The language a child produces — words, signs, AAC selections, gestures. Expressive language is what most people notice first ("she doesn't talk yet"). It is one half of communication; receptive language is the other.

Receptive language

The language a child understands — words and phrases they can take in, even if they do not say them. Many children, including many autistic children, understand more than they say. Assuming receptive language is strong is part of presuming competence.

Social stories

Short, simple, illustrated stories that walk a child through what to expect in a particular situation — a haircut, the first day of school, a flight. Developed by Carol Gray, social stories often help autistic children prepare for new or stressful events.

PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System)

A low-tech AAC system in which the child hands a picture card to someone to communicate what they want. PECS is one of several AAC approaches; it works for some children and not others. Speech-language pathologists help families pick what fits.