Different Communication Styles To Use With Your Children

 It is not a universal law that all autistic children will struggle with communication. 

However, it has been noted enough to become one of the main diagnostic criteria according to the ICD 10. Children who have a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder may struggle to vocalize what or how they are feeling and may also have issues with listening to instructions or information that somebody else is giving them. This can make for a very frustrating experience. 

 

Therefore, if you are a parent with a child who has a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, you may want to explore the best ways to successfully communicate with them without causing distress. Here, some of the most successful options will be explored so you can see which one may be the most beneficial to your child. 

 

Electronic Devices 

If you were to go on to the App Store, you would find a lot of apps that are downloadable to smartphones or tablets, which are aimed at communicating with an autistic child. There are age ranges, meaning that some of these apps will be more appropriate for toddlers and young children, but almost every autism app will have images that a child can tap to vocalize what it is that they want. Try to familiarize yourself with these apps before giving the tablet or smartphone to your child so you will know exactly what it is that they're asking for when they use it. 

 

Written Words 

An interesting side note is that many children who are autistic may find it easier to write or spell out what they want to say rather than to say it. Again, this can be managed with the use of a smartphone or a tablet, but some children may prefer to write it down in a notebook and then give you the book. This is very straightforward and simple and can help them to map their emotions, as well as build communication and trust with you. 

 

Pictures 

For children who may struggle with electronic devices and writing, there are always pictures. Many neurodivergent stores online will have laminated pictures or PEC cards that your child can use to communicate with you. Usually, these will have photographs or drawn images of food, drink and activities such as playing football or reading. This will allow your child to look at the picture and give the image to you, so you will know what it is that they want without them having to say a word. 

 

Gestures 

Some autistic children find gestures helpful, such as pointing. This comes naturally to humans and hand gestures can help your child to communicate the urgency at which they require something. This is a rather sophisticated form of nonverbal communication and is an expressive display, so be sure if your child is using hand gestures to take note of what it is they're trying to say, to help build communication. 

 

Sign Language 

Lastly, there are some children who may find any noise or conversation difficult. So, it can be worth looking into learning sign language with them. This will help them to communicate their needs without needing to talk and will allow you to talk to them without having to raise their anxiety levels by making noises. Just make sure you learn one of the approved methods, such as American Sign Language, or it could get confusing very quickly.