As both a linguist and a mother navigating my daughter’s early autism assessment, I think it is key to consider the connection between language development and the early stages to fully understand the autism spectrum. This article brings together professional insights and personal experiences to offer a perspective rooted in linguistics, inclusion, and neurodiversity.
Language and Autism: A Unique Connection
Language is often the first area where differences in autistic children become noticeable. However, these differences are not deficits. They reflect diverse pathways shaped by culture, environment, and neurodiversity.
We may all have heard that children learn languages quickly because “they are like sponges.” According to the Innateness Theory (Chomsky), “children are born with knowledge of the fundamental principles of grammar” and this “knowledge helps children to acquire their native language effortlessly and systematically, despite the complexity of the process.” (Bryndís Samúelsdóttir, 2015).
Children on the spectrum may process and express language in distinctive ways. For example, echolalia (the repetition of words or phrases) can serve meaningful purposes such as communication, self-soothing, or pattern recognition. Literal interpretation of language is also common, making idioms and sarcasm potentially confusing. Adjusting our language to be clearer and more direct fosters better communication.
In my daughter’s case, she may say “shower” while pointing to “biscuits,” or use words in other languages like “nein” instead of “no,” influenced by her multilingual environment. These moments reflect how autistic individuals navigate language in deeply personal ways.
Key Aspects of Language Development in the Autism Spectrum:
1. Individual Communication Styles
Every child on the spectrum has their own unique way of processing and expressing language, just like we all have different personalities and every child on the spectrum has their own way of processing and expressing language.
Some may excel in certain areas, like acquiring languages or logical thinking, while finding others challenging, like social interactions, and understanding these differences is crucial for effective support.
Moreover, many autistic individuals exhibit a literal interpretation of language. Idioms, sarcasm, and metaphors, which are typically used in everyday conversation, can be confusing or misleading. By changing our language to be more clear and direct, we can bridge the gap and create more inclusive dialogue.
2. The Role of Multilingual Environments
Contrary to what some say to believe, being multilingual doesn’t confuse autistic children. They can offer different ways to connect, and different languages might serve different purposes.
In the US, where Spanish is the 3rd main language, many psychoeducational assessments are available in different languages to ensure that both, students and psychologists, have access to the right tools. This is key because if the tests are biased (in other words, not available in the student’s main language), the results will not be accurate.
According to the work titled Applying the cultural-linguistic interpretive matrix to neuropsychological assessment, by Karol J. Mendoza (James Madison University), “The degree of cultural influence on neuropsychological tasks may not be obvious, but studies have shown that inaccurate results may be obtained when evaluating children from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.”
Said this, considering the child’s cultural and linguistic environment is crucial not only to understand their real abilities but also how to support them.
3. The Role of Non-verbal Communication, Pattern Recognition and Language
Non-verbal communication (gestures, body language, and visual aids) often plays a central role in how autistic individuals express themselves. Many also show strong pattern recognition abilities, which can be harnessed to support language development and interaction.
Rather than expecting autistic individuals to conform to neurotypical communication norms, we must adapt and validate their ways of expressing themselves. Every gesture, sound, or preferred language is meaningful.
Supporting Language Development:
As a translator working in educational settings, I’ve observed how language acquisition in autistic children may follow distinct patterns, like non-linear progression, unique strengths in specific language areas, and different communication preferences across languages (for example, opting for saying some words in one language and others in a different one).
- Understanding of the Autism Spectrum: Early Recognition and Intervention
Although recognising and understanding the early signs of someone being on the autism spectrum (applies to ADHD as well) may not be easy, an early recognition of developmental differences plays a crucial role in providing timely support and intervention for children.
In the UK, assessments can begin from the age of two, especially with nursery support. Collaborative efforts between families, educators, and specialists are key to creating accurate diagnoses and tailored interventions.
Creating supportive learning environments goes beyond basic accommodations; it requires a deep understanding and respect for each child’s cultural background and linguistic journey.
2. Inclusive Communication Approaches
Inclusive communication thrives on the thoughtful integration of visual supports, which serve as powerful tools for understanding and expression.
By incorporating an individual’s special interests into communication strategies, we create meaningful connections that naturally motivate engagement and learning.
It is essential to adapt our communication styles to meet these individual requirements to create truly inclusive spaces where everyone can participate and express themselves effectively.
The Role of Inclusive Communication When Understanding Autism
Understanding autism requires us to broaden our perspective on what effective communication means. It’s not about fitting into a standard mould, but rather about embracing and supporting diverse ways of communicating and adapting them when required.
Tips for an Inclusive Communication:
1. Patience and Observation
Understanding begins with listening and watching closely for how someone expresses themselves, whether through words or gestures.
2. Creating Supportive Environments
Sensory-friendly, structured spaces that use visual aids and clear language can make a big difference.
3. Embrace Neurodiversity
Each individual processes and expresses information differently. These diverse viewpoints contribute to richer, more meaningful interactions. When we truly value these different ways of thinking and being, we create learning environments that celebrate individuality and foster genuine inclusion.
4. Routine-Based Learning
Incorporating language into daily routines using repetitive, meaningful phrases supports engagement and development.
5. Inclusive Communication Approaches
Whether communication comes through speech, signing, assistive technology, or behaviour, every method is valid.
Looking Ahead: Language as a Path to Inclusion to Fully Understand Autism
Understanding autism from a language acquisition perspective helps us build more inclusive and effective support systems and communities.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or professional, recognise that each person’s relationship with language is unique. Supporting that journey requires empathy, openness, and adaptability.
Resources and Support:
There is a wealth of support available, from comprehensive early assessment guidance from the NHS or the National Autistic Society to specialised psychoeducational assessment tests and what areas they work on, there’s a growing network of support available for families.
Online communities, blogs, and forums offer firsthand insights that are especially valuable, as well as language development resources are particularly crucial, especially when we consider the diverse ways our children communicate and learn.
Other sources include specialised guides to diagnose and understand the autistic spectrum, educational resources, and professional development opportunities for those working in inclusive environments.
What I find particularly valuable is how these resources often bridge multiple languages and cultures, making support accessible to diverse communities, something I’m passionate about in my work as The Inclusivity Translator.
