Impairments in communication are another important hallmark of Autism. The underlying cause is that the individual with autism does not naturally pick up gestures, facial expressions, appropriate eye contact, or tone of voice. They do not easily acquire speech and language or if the language is developed, it is used in unusual ways, with a “marked impairment in the ability to initiate or sustain a conversation with others.”
The parents always seek professional help with these concerns for their child-“My child does not have speech. Please teach him to talk”. In the desperation to see the child verbalize with words and sentences, they not only fail to connect with him/her but are also unable to consider all the other means of communication which are:-
- Whether expression comes through spoken language, picture cards, a communication device, gestures, or sign language; it is all communication.
-Each child has something to say to us. It is our responsibility to listen in a way that ensures that they are heard and understood.
The therapeutic and social aspect is key and helping someone with autism acquire speech which will aid in connecting to others.