It has being researched that after the age of 4, many nonverbal children with autism eventually start to develop language. Please, remember that this may not be so with some children because, each person with autism is unique and affected differently.
This research produced effective strategies but, bear in mind that a strategy that works with one child might not work with another even with with tremendous effort. Also, do not give up hope on that autistic child/person that is nonverbal because they can live a fulfilling life with visual supports and other aids.
Here are the strategies to help promote language development in nonverbal children with autism.
Imitate your child
Mimick the sounds and play behaviour of your child. This will also encourage your child to copy you and learn to take turns. So long as it’s a positive behaviour your child is displaying imitate them.
Focus on nonverbal communication
Make use of both your body and voice. For example, point when you say”look”, and nodding your head when you say “yes”. Exaggerate your gestures, use facial expression to show your amazement with something positve they have done.
Simplify your language
This helps your child follow what you have said to them. Less words also helps them imitate your speech. Try speaking in single words if your child is nonverbal. If your child already speak in single words, speak in short phrases. For example, if your child can say ball you can add it up saying ” roll ball”. This way you are expanding their words. Always use phrases with one more word up than your child is aleady using.
Take que from your child
Follow their interest without interrupting their focus, follow along with words. Narrate what they are doing, using the one-up rule. For example if they are playing with shapes. Tell them what shape it is, saying” triangle”. Up their words by saying the colour of the shape saying ” green triangle “.
Give room for your child to talk
We tend to want to help them express themselves when the child doesn’t respond. It’s important to give your child lots of opportunities to communicate. When you ask a question or see that your child wants something, pause for several seconds while looking at the child expectantly. Watch for any sound or movement and respond promptly. The promptness of yoùr response will make your child feel the power of communication.
Make use of assistive devices and visual supports.
Using assistive device can foster language development. For example, making use of device and apps with pictures that your child can touch to produce words. Visual supports can include pictures that your child can use to indicate requests.
Most importantly, speak to your child therapist if they have got one. If they have not, please start working with the early intervention team to help support your child needs