Communication

Impairment of speech and language is a major symptom in the diagnosis of autism in young children. At least one in three adults with autism spectrum disorder does not speak, and a significant number who can utter spoken words may not be able to use language as an effective means of communication. Many challenging behaviours of people with autism, such as aggression, self-injury, anxiety and depression, may be expressions of frustration at the inability to communicate with others.

This next section is designed to share ways to teach individuals with autism ways to communicate.