25 SEPTEMBER 2026
Are you looking for practical ways to support your child's communication skills? In this article and video, we share strategies to help your child express themselves, build confidence and communicate in ways that work for them.
Author: Anne-Marie Harrison, Education Director at Ideas Afresh Education
Develop alternative communication skills
Communication is about much more than spoken language. Some autistic children may find it easier to communicate using visual supports, gestures, symbols or other non-verbal methods. Finding a communication approach that works for your child can help them feel understood and reduce frustration.
Visualise options
Making decisions can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when choices are presented verbally. Visual supports can make options clearer and easier to process. Rather than asking your child what they would like to eat or do, try showing them the available options. Seeing the choices in front of them can help reduce uncertainty and support more confident decision-making.
Understanding behaviour as communication
All behaviour communicates something. When a child appears frustrated, withdrawn or distressed, they may be expressing a need, feeling or experience that they cannot yet put into words. Taking time to understand what might be behind a behaviour can help you respond more effectively. For example, if your child struggles after school, they may be communicating that they feel overwhelmed by the demands of the day. Activities that help them unwind, such as movement, sensory play or quiet time, can support emotional regulation and wellbeing.
Flexible thinking
Some autistic children may find it more difficult to interpret language that is unclear, abstract or open to different meanings. Supporting flexible thinking can help them make sense of the world around them. Everyday situations provide opportunities to explore different perspectives together. Talking through language, instructions or social situations can help your child understand that there may be more than one way to interpret something.
Model behaviours
Children learn a great deal through observation. Modelling clear, consistent communication can help your child develop their own skills over time. Whether you are expressing a feeling, asking for help or explaining a choice, using simple language and giving your child time to process information can make communication easier. These everyday interactions help build confidence and create meaningful opportunities for connection.
Looking for more?
For more advice and support, download our Understanding Autism Support Pack. You can find:
- The autism spectrum
- The diagnostic process
- The early signs of the condition
- How age and gender impacts the presentation of autism
- Strategies to support communication and relationships