How to Support an Autistic Child Who Isn’t Talking Yet

When a child isn’t talking at the age parents expect, it can raise concerns. Delayed speech can sometimes be one of the early signs of autism, though there are many reasons why a child might not begin speaking at the typical developmental stage.

If you’re a parent or caregiver of a child who isn’t talking yet and are wondering how to support their communication development - especially if they are autistic - there are simple, effective strategies you can use at home to help.

Why Isn’t My Child Talking Yet?

Every child develops at their own pace, but if your child isn’t using words by around 18-24 months, it may be worth exploring further. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is one possible reason for delayed speech, although factors like hearing issues, developmental delays, or other speech and language disorders can also play a role.

A lack of speech can feel worrying, but many children - especially those with autism - can still develop strong communication skills over time with the right support.

How to Help an Autistic Child Who Isn’t Talking

One of the most powerful things you can do to support your child's early communication is to engage in daily 1:1 play. Just 15 minutes a day of high-quality, focused play can significantly improve your child’s ability to interact, connect, and build the foundations of communication.

Here are four simple strategies to try:

1. Get Face to Face

To help your child engage with you during play, make sure you’re physically at their level. This might mean sitting or lying on the floor, kneeling, or using a low chair if they’re standing.

Why it helps: Being face-to-face helps your child notice you more easily and makes it easier for you to see what they’re interested in. This shared attention is essential for developing communication skills.

2. Follow Your Child’s Lead

Rather than directing the play, let your child take the lead - even if their play style seems unusual or repetitive. Join in with what they’re doing instead of trying to change it.

Why it helps: Children are more likely to engage and respond when they are doing something they enjoy. Following their lead encourages interaction and shows them you’re interested in their world.

3. Imitate Your Child

Copy your child’s actions, facial expressions, or sounds during play. If they bang a block, bang one too. If they make a noise, try making it back.

Why it helps: Imitation shows your child that their actions have an effect, helping them understand cause and effect - an important part of learning how to communicate. It also creates opportunities for turn-taking and interaction.

4. Use Comments Instead of Questions

It’s natural to want to ask your child questions to prompt a response. But for a child who isn’t speaking yet, questions can feel like pressure. Instead, use simple, descriptive comments about what your child is doing or looking at.

Examples:

• ❌ “What’s that?” → ✅ “It’s a dog.”

• ❌ “What are you doing?” → ✅ “You’re jumping!”

• ❌ “What colour is it?” → ✅ “That one’s green.”

Why it helps: Comments provide language input without the expectation of a reply. This helps your child learn new words and understand how language connects to their interests and actions.

Supporting Non-Speaking Autistic Children

Not all autistic children will develop spoken language, but every child can learn to communicate in their own way. Supporting attention, connection, and interaction through play builds the foundation for all types of communication - whether it’s verbal, visual, or gestural.

At bMindful Psychology, we offer tailored support for children with autism and speech delays, including:

• Speech and Language Therapy

• Autism Assessments

• Therapeutic Interventions

Call us today: 0161 510 0111

Email: hello@bmindfulpsychology.co.uk