Speech & Communication: Guides for Parents

How speech and language therapy supports autistic children

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) help children understand and use language. The CDC's treatment guidance describes speech and language therapy as the most common developmental therapy for people with autism spectrum disorder. It helps with understanding and using speech and language, and it may involve signs, gestures, pictures or devices.

Communication does not always mean spoken words. Some children benefit from gestures or sign language, some use picture cards, and others use a speech-generating device. The best choice depends on the child's strengths, interests and what works in everyday life at home, at school and in the community. Many families use more than one method, and the goal is a system the child can use reliably.

Speech therapy often focuses on functional communication: asking for things, making choices, saying no, greeting people and joining in play. Sessions are planned around the goals your child and family care about most. Families are included so that practice carries over into daily routines, not only into sessions.

Speech therapy works best when it is coordinated with the rest of your child's team. If your child also receives ABA therapy, occupational therapy or school services, ask how the goals connect. For example, a child who is learning to ask for a break in ABA may use the same picture card or device in speech sessions. Our speech and language therapy page explains how this support fits with our other services, and our guide to AAC and autism covers picture and device options in more depth.

Talk with your child's pediatrician about speech and language concerns and any specific medical needs, since they know your child's history best.