Understanding Autistic Communication

Autistic people can communicate in many different ways. Some use spoken language, some communicate without speech, and others may use a combination of speech and alternative forms of communication.

Differences can also affect how someone processes language, expresses emotions, understands social cues or communicates their needs.

Communication should not be measured by how closely someone communicates in a typical way. The important thing is finding ways for each person to understand others and be understood themselves.

Different Ways Of Communicating

  • Spoken Communication

    Some autistic people communicate through speech but may experience differences with conversation, processing language, tone of voice or finding the words they want to use.

  • Non-Spoken Communication

    Some autistic people do not use speech, or use very limited speech. Not speaking does not mean someone has nothing to communicate or does not understand what is happening around them.

  • AAC

    Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) can include communication devices, apps, picture systems, symbol boards and other tools that support or provide alternatives to speech.

  • Gestures & Body Language

    Pointing, facial expressions, movements, gestures and actions can all communicate information, preferences and needs.

  • Writing & Typing

    Some people may find communicating through messages, writing or typing easier than having a spoken conversation.

  • Echolalia & Repeated Language

    Some autistic people repeat words, phrases or sounds they have heard. This can serve different purposes and may sometimes be part of how someone processes or communicates information.

Sometimes More Time Is Needed

Communication isn’t only about someone’s ability to speak. Processing what another person has said and deciding how to respond can also require additional time.

Asking several questions quickly, repeating the question immediately or putting someone under pressure to answer can sometimes make communication more difficult.

Giving someone time to process information, using clear language and checking what communication method works best for them can make conversations more accessible.

Looking Beyond Words

When someone is unable to easily explain what they need, their actions or behaviour may provide important information.

Changes in behaviour could sometimes indicate discomfort, sensory overload, frustration, anxiety, difficulty understanding what is happening or an unmet need.

Rather than only asking “How do we stop this behaviour?”, it can be helpful to ask, “What might this person be trying to communicate?”

Understanding the reason behind someone’s response can help us provide support rather than simply reacting to what we can see.

Helping Someone Be Heard

Good communication support starts with respecting the individual’s preferred way of communicating.

This might mean allowing additional processing time, using clear and direct language, reducing unnecessary questions, providing visual information or ensuring someone’s AAC system is available to them.

It also means avoiding assumptions about someone’s intelligence, understanding or abilities based solely on how much spoken language they use.

Communication is a two-way process. Instead of expecting autistic people to do all the adapting, everyone involved can work towards understanding each other.

Communication Doesn’t Have To Mean Speech

Everyone deserves the opportunity to express their choices, needs, feelings and personality.

Whether someone communicates through speech, typing, pictures, a communication device, gestures, movement or a combination of different methods, their communication deserves to be recognised and respected.

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