Many children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are nonverbal or have limited speech. But being nonverbal doesn’t mean they don’t have something to say. These children can still learn to communicate—with the right tools and support.
Thankfully, there are many communication tools designed to help nonverbal children express themselves, share their needs, and build relationships with others.
Why Communication Tools Matter
When a child can’t speak easily, they may feel frustrated, misunderstood, or isolated. This can lead to emotional outbursts or behavioral challenges.
Communication tools help by:
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Reducing frustration
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Supporting language development
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Strengthening social connections
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Improving behavior through clearer expression
With the right approach, nonverbal children can learn to communicate in ways that work best for them.
Types of Communication Tools for Nonverbal Children
Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
PECS is one of the most well-known systems. Children use pictures or symbols to ask for things, answer questions, or express feelings.
How it works:
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The child hands a picture to a caregiver to make a request
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Over time, they learn to combine symbols to form sentences
PECS is simple, affordable, and effective for many kids with autism.
Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs)
These are electronic tools that “speak” for the child when they press a button or select a symbol. They may be:
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Dedicated communication devices
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Tablets with special communication apps
Popular apps include:
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Proloquo2Go
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TouchChat HD
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LAMP Words for Life
These apps allow kids to build sentences using symbols, text, or photos—and then hear the words spoken aloud.
Communication Boards
These are simple, low-tech tools made with pictures or words. Children point to or touch symbols to communicate.
You can create boards for:
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Daily routines (e.g., brushing teeth, getting dressed)
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Emotions (happy, tired, angry)
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Needs (food, bathroom, play)
They’re portable, easy to customize, and don’t require batteries or screens.
Sign Language
Some nonverbal children can learn American Sign Language (ASL) or modified signs to communicate.
Benefits of sign language:
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Doesn’t rely on technology
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Builds motor skills and attention
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Helps children express needs in real time
Even learning just a few basic signs can make a big difference.
Visual Schedules and Choice Boards
Visual schedules show what’s happening next, helping reduce anxiety and improve transitions.
Choice boards offer children a way to select what they want using pictures, such as choosing between snacks, toys, or activities.
These tools support communication without requiring speech.
Choosing the Right Tool
Each child is different. Some may respond well to pictures, while others may prefer apps or gestures. To find the best fit:
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Observe how your child reacts to different tools
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Ask a speech-language pathologist (SLP) for an evaluation
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Try different methods and see what works best
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Be patient—it takes time to learn new skills
Many children benefit from using more than one tool, especially in different settings.
Final Thoughts
All children deserve a voice, even if they don’t use words. With the right communication tools, nonverbal children with autism can share their needs, feelings, and thoughts with the world.
Your support, encouragement, and belief in your child’s ability to communicate will help them grow in confidence and connection.