What Does a Speech Therapist Do for a Child with Autism?
When people hear “speech therapy,” they often picture a child practicing how to say their “R” sound or expanding their vocabulary. But for children with autism, speech therapy is about so much more than words — it’s about connection, understanding, and finding the best way to communicate.
As a speech-language pathologist (SLP), I have the privilege of working with incredible children on the autism spectrum — helping them express themselves, connect with others, and navigate a world that doesn’t always feel built for them. Whether your child is speaking in full sentences, just starting to communicate, or not using words at all, speech therapy can play a powerful role.
Understanding Communication Differences in Autism
Children with autism often communicate differently. Some may use words, while others rely on gestures, pictures, signs, or technology. Some may have difficulty understanding the meaning behind words or social cues. Others may struggle with the back-and-forth nature of conversation, even if they’re talking a lot.
As SLPs, we look beyond speech sounds. We support all aspects of communication — verbal, nonverbal, social, and functional.
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Here’s What a Speech Therapist Might Help With:
💬 Building Functional Communication
🧠 Understanding and Using Language
🤝 Social Communication Skills
🍽️ Feeding and Mealtime Skills
🧩 Sensory and Regulation Support (in collaboration with OTs)
👪 Coaching Caregivers
Let’s discuss more:
💬 Building Functional Communication
The first priority is always helping your child communicate in a way that’s meaningful to them. That might mean spoken words, sign language, picture exchange (PECS), or using a speech-generating device (AAC). We help children express their wants, needs, feelings, and ideas — in ways that work for them.
🧠 Understanding and Using Language
We help children understand the language they hear and use words or gestures to express themselves. That might mean building vocabulary, understanding directions, or learning how to ask for help.
🤝 Social Communication Skills
Children with autism may need extra support with the “unspoken rules” of communication — like turn-taking, understanding emotions, using appropriate body language, or recognizing when someone wants to join a game. We break these skills down into teachable, accessible steps.
🍽️ Feeding and Mealtime Skills
Many children with autism have feeding challenges due to sensory sensitivities, oral motor differences, or routines around food. As an SLP with feeding expertise, I also work with families to support safe, positive, and flexible mealtimes — always with compassion and without pressure.
🧩 Sensory and Regulation Support (in collaboration with OTs)
While we’re not occupational therapists, SLPs often work closely with OTs to support children who have sensory preferences that impact communication. For example, we may adjust the environment, use movement, or incorporate sensory strategies into sessions so a child can better focus and engage.
👪 Coaching Caregivers
One of the most powerful parts of speech therapy is helping parents feel confident in supporting communication every day. I work closely with families to create routines, use natural moments for language, and celebrate progress together. Communication happens all day long — and parents are the best partners.
What Does Speech Therapy Look Like?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Therapy is individualized, strengths-based, and built around your child’s unique communication style. Some sessions are playful and movement-filled; others are structured and routine-based. Sessions can take place in homes, clinics, schools, or virtually — whatever works best for the child and family.
Every Child Can Communicate — We Just Have to Find the Way
Whether your child is just beginning to explore communication or already talking and working on social skills, speech therapy can help them feel heard, understood, and connected.
If you’re wondering whether speech therapy is right for your child, Little Eater & Talkers offer wellness consultations to help families figure out what supports might be most helpful — no diagnosis or referral needed.
💡 Ready to Learn More?
Book a free discovery call or explore our Wellness Consultation page to get started. Early support can make a world of difference, and I’d be honored to help guide you through it.
