Family Autism ADHD Support
Communication
Children and adults with autism have challenges with communication and social skills. They often find it hard to have conversations and may not notice social cues. Some people with autism may not talk at all (non verbal) and others may not have trouble talking. All people with autism have some degree of challenge with communication (such as making friends or maintaining relationships at school or work).
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Communication happens when one person sends a message to another person. This can be verbally or non-verbally. Interaction happens when two people respond to one another – two-way communication.
National Autistic Society 2017
For us our pathway to a diagnosis was very smooth. We highlighted our concerns regarding Mjs development to our health Visitor. We were then refered to Speech and Language therapist ( SALT). We met her at the family hub on East Reach in Taunton. She was wonderful. Through play, interaction ( nothing on Mjs side) and chatting to me she was able to write her report stating she felt Mj was displaying traits of Autism. This was sent to a paediatrician who we met with a few months later. We chatted for about an hour where he then diagnosed Mj autistic.
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To get a diagnosis of Autism you usually need two medical professionals to sign it off. This is most commonly a Speech and Language therapist and a pediatrician. However, it may be an Occupational therapist and a paediatrician.
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Mj is non verbal. This does not mean he is unable to talk physically. Mj has Echolalia. This is where he will echo ( repeat) words and phrases.For example, he will sing nursery rhymes or repeat words but has very little understanding of context and meaning. He doesn't communicate his wants and needs. He has recently, at age 4, been referred to as a Gestalt Language Processor. This means ( in simple terms) he learns in chunks.
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So how can you help your child communicate?
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There are many forms of communication. Here I will list the different forms of communication and some links to sites you may find helpful.
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Please remember not all children will engage. It's about finding what works for your child. It is not a quick and easy path. It takes a lot of patience and continuity but you will get there. Whatever form of communication your child leans towards always use speech to support.
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Speech
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Picture exchange ( Check out here)
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Sign language
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Objects of reference ( using items and pointing to objects)​​​
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Speech and Language Therapist, SALT
If you have concerns regarding your child's communication. This could be everyday communication or understanding how to communicate and interact with others. You can request a referral through your GP or School. If you would like to go down the private route ( this will reduce waiting times then checkout the list below).
Speech and Language Therapists play a key role in the evaluation and management of individuals with Autism as they can provide interventions to help improve communication skills.
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