- By Bornika Das
- Thu, 08 May 2025 07:57 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Speech Therapy For Autistic Kids: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often face unique challenges in communication, social interaction and language development. These difficulties can range from mild speech delays to complete non-verbal communication, impacting not only their ability to express themselves but also how they engage with the world around them. Speech and language pathologists (SLPs) play a critical role in helping children with autism overcome these hurdles. With tailored therapeutic approaches, SLPs support the development of communication skills that are essential for academic success, social relationships and overall well-being.
Speech therapy serves as a valuable resource for families and their autistic children. This therapy is conducted by speech and language pathologists (SLPs) who are experts in human communication. In conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Sonam Kothari, Pediatric Neurologist, Co-Founder & CEO, Butterfly Learnings, offers insights into how speech therapy and SLPs can act as a life-changing medium for autistic children.
How SLPs Conduct Speech Therapy?
Speech and language pathologists study how a child communicates and figure out what works best for the child and what he or she struggles to use. Dr. Sonam Kothari mentions that, “After understanding the child’s abilities and areas of concern, SLPs develop an individualised strategy aimed at achieving the child’s communication goals.” SLPs come up with a customised therapy that focuses on comprehension, which means that the recipients also learn what nonverbal communication is and how to use it, which is crucial for interpersonal relationships. “Speech therapy seeks to assist children to speak clearly, use simple language, and construct sentences that are easily comprehensible,” she adds.
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Speech Therapy By SLPs For Children With Autism (Image Credits: Canva)
Methods Used For Speech Therapy
Dr. Sonam Kothari shares several different methods that the SLPs use for speech therapy for autistic kids. Methods include “pictures and guided talking activities, are often integrated into good speech therapy,” Dr. Kothari said. Besides, for children who do not speak or have difficulties verbalising, there are alternative forms of communication called Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). This method includes picture boards and electronic devices that enable children to express their thoughts and feelings. Dr. Sonam Kothari advises that the therapy helps even more if parents get involved. “When parents actively participate with the speech therapist, they learn how to support their child's communication skills at home. This not only reinforces what children learn in therapy but also speeds up their everyday progress, helping them with social interactions and understanding the world around them,” she states.
