Children with Autism may not want to communicate.

They may not be ready to learn the communication skills other young children learn
naturally. Therefore they miss out on early language experiences.
Words often have no meaning
Facial expressions and gestures are difficult to understand
Young children with Autism often have to learn the importance of communication.
They have to realise that communication will not only be useful in meeting their needs
but could be fun as well.

They need to learn how communication works.

Just because your child uses words do not assume he can communicate.

Communication is much more than just talking.

Communication involves:-

• Establishing attention
• Taking in information
• Understanding
• Being able to respond
• Being able to take turns

For young children with Autism it is very important for you to help them in anyway you
can. You need to be sure they know:-

• What you mean
• What you want them to do
• Where they have to go
• What they are allowed to do
• What you don't want them to do

This means you need to teach your child understanding.

They will need a way of sharing messages to help them understand communication as
well as speaking we can use objects, pictures, photographs and the written word.