Non verbal - questions

[doadeer]

Hello,

I'm hoping to hear from anyone with a non verbal autistic child, how did their communication develop? What stages were there? And did verbal language ever come?

My son is nearly 3, he has just started taking our hand to take us where he wants but communication very limited. I'm doing some basic makaton signs to encourage his comprehension.

Just wondering what the future holds for us... The unknown of it all is such a challenge, and knowing how best to support him.

@doadeer
Not my own, but I have a lot of experience working with non-verbal children with autism, most of whom are developmental 3 years or younger.

Makaton is a great tool, well done for using it so early! I find some partners reluctant to use it initially. It’s definitely hard work, but will be worth it in the long run. Going forward the use of symbols, timetables, and choosing books might be useful, but it all really depends on how your son develops on how these can be utilised.

Good luck

Hi, I don't have a child with ASC myself but I do have experience working with young people with SEND. Have you heard of PECS? Have you had any speech and language input or advice?

He isn't ready for pictures he is still trying to understand object based communication. We waited 11 months for SLT we've had assessments and done multiple sessions it was just working on joint attention. Then they wanted to use a technique I wasn't happy with so we are being referred to a specialist SN SLT which will be another 6 months.

I'm looking at private support.

I'm just interested in what milestones other kids went through before language came