🧠 AI Summary:

Helping a child with nonverbal autism learn to communicate is absolutely possible — and it doesn’t always require spoken words at first. Many children make incredible progress when they are given the right tools, support, and opportunities to express themselves. This blog explains seven evidence-based ways parents can encourage communication, including building connection through play, expanding gestures, using AAC tools, modeling communication, and partnering with your ABA team. With the right support, every child can learn to share their needs, thoughts, and personality in ways that feel natural to them.

7 Ways to Help a Child With Nonverbal Autism Learn to Communicate

When your child isn’t using spoken words yet, it can bring up a lot of questions — How can I help my child speak? What should I focus on? Am I doing enough?

You’re not alone. Many children on the autism spectrum communicate differently, and spoken language often develops on a unique timeline.

At On Target ABA, we believe communication is not just about speech. It’s about connection, understanding, and giving your child the tools they need to express themselves confidently — in ways that work for them.

Below are seven supportive, research-based ways to help children with nonverbal autism move toward meaningful communication.

1️⃣ Build Communication Through Play

Children learn best when they’re having fun. Play naturally creates opportunities for turn-taking, imitation, and shared attention — the building blocks of communication.

For example:

• Rolling a ball back and forth
• Taking turns with a favorite toy
• Pausing during a silly activity so your child signals “more”

Your child’s ABA therapist can show you how to turn simple moments into powerful communication teaching opportunities.

2️⃣ Expand Your Child’s Gestures and Sounds

Before most children use words, they communicate through:

• Reaching
• Pointing
• Eye contact
• Smiling
• Vocal sounds

When your child makes any attempt to communicate, respond right away. This teaches them that gestures and sounds have power.

If your child points at bubbles, you might say:

“Bubbles! You want bubbles!”

Modeling shows them how their gesture can become a word or phrase over time.

3️⃣ Use AAC Tools Early (Not as a Last Resort)

One of the most common myths is that AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) will stop a child from learning to talk. Research shows the opposite is true — AAC often increases spoken language.

AAC may include:

• Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
• Visual choice boards
• Speech-generating devices
• Communication apps

These tools reduce frustration and help children understand the power of expressing themselves.

4️⃣ Model Language Throughout the Day

Even if your child isn’t speaking yet, they are always listening and learning.

You can help by:

• Labeling items (“juice,” “swing,” “car”)
• Narrating your actions (“Mom is cooking pasta”)
• Using short, simple phrases
• Modeling excitement and emotion

Children learn language through consistent exposure — especially when it’s tied to things they love.

5️⃣ Follow Your Child’s Interests

Kids communicate more when they’re motivated. When you follow what excites them, you naturally create more opportunities for communication.

Does your child love swings? Then that’s a perfect time to model “go,” “more,” or “my turn.”

Every interest becomes a teaching moment — and many families are surprised by how quickly communication skills grow when activities are child-led.

6️⃣ Celebrate All Forms of Communication

Communication may look different for every child. It might be:

• Reaching
• Signing
• Using a picture icon
• Making a sound
• Grabbing your hand
• Using a speech device

When you celebrate every attempt, you encourage more communication.

When your child feels understood, they participate more — and confidence grows.

7️⃣ Work Closely With Your ABA Team

ABA therapy focuses on building communication skills step-by-step using individualized teaching plans.

At On Target ABA, your child’s BCBA and RBT team will:

✔️ Assess your child’s current communication skills
✔️ Identify what motivates your child
✔️ Introduce AAC tools if appropriate
✔️ Teach communication through play, routines, and natural interactions
✔️ Coach parents on strategies to use at home

You are an essential part of the process — when home and therapy routines match, progress happens faster.

The Most Important Message: Your Child Can Communicate

Your child already has a voice — even if it’s not spoken yet.

With patience, the right tools, and a supportive team, many children with nonverbal autism go on to develop words, gestures, signs, or AAC-based communication that allows them to connect with the world in meaningful ways.

And at On Target ABA, we’re here to walk that journey with you every step of the way.