Publish In 2024-12-13

Effective communication begins with interaction, and parents are at the forefront of this journey. This blog focuses on evidence-based strategies that parents can employ to support language development in children with autism.

Strategies for Interaction

• Foundation Skills: Build eye contact, joint attention, and turn-taking​.
• The Four Ss: Simplify language, emphasize key words, slow speech, and use visual aids​.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

• Reduce the use of complex questions that overwhelm the child​.
• Focus on meaningful conversations rather than testing knowledge.

Incorporating Vocabulary Expansion

• Introduce words for actions, feelings, and social situations​.
• Repeat words across different contexts to ensure retention.

Parental strategies create a nurturing environment for language development. Consistent use of structured methods builds confidence and skills in children.

References:

• Sussman, F. (2012). More Than Words.
• Schreibman, L., & Stahmer, A. C. (2014). Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.