Do Any of These Describe Your Child?
Nonverbal or Nonspeaking
Individuals who are nonverbal or nonspeaking are unable to consistently express their thoughts or feelings. They may produce a few sounds or word approximations, but their speech is often inconsistent and unreliable.
Minimally Speaking
Can your child say one or two words or phrases that seem reliable? Individuals who are minimally speaking can clearly say some words, and their speech is generally reliable. However, they often rely on single words to communicate. Engaging in back-and-forth conversation is challenging due to the motor control and executive attention it requires. Learning the motor skills to spell can provide a way for them to communicate beyond single words or simple phrases.
Repetitive Speech
Does your child repeat the same phrase over and over? Or are they echolalic—repeating what others say? This pattern of unreliable speech can be frustrating for both them and you.. While they may want to answer your questions or express themselves, their body may not cooperate. This challenge is often due to apraxia, a neuromotor condition that affects motor planning. Learning the motor skills to spell can help bypass the frustration of repetitive speech and allow their true voice to be heard.
Appearing Disconnected
Does your child seem “in their own world” or prefer being alone rather than engaging socially? This behavior may stem from how their brain processes sensory information. Overwhelm from visual or auditory input, especially in group settings, can make social interaction difficult. They may want to engage but find it too overwhelming. Additionally, their way of socializing may look different from typical social behaviors—and that’s okay! It’s important to meet them where they are instead of insisting they participate in group activities.
Difficulty with Motor Skills
Does your child seem clumsy or appear to have little control over their body? Do they seem weak or unmotivated? These can be signs of motor skill difficulties. Factors like low muscle tone, weak core strength, retained reflexes, and muscle weakness contribute to challenges in developing motor skills. These difficulties can impact nearly every task, including communication. A comprehensive assessment of all areas is essential to help your child gain better control of their body.
High Anxiety
Many of our clients experience heightened anxiety, often due to difficulties processing sensory information. When the sensory environment becomes overwhelming, it can overpower the brain’s ability to process incoming stimuli, especially in new or unpredictable situations. We can teach you strategies to co-regulate with your child, helping them feel more confident and secure in unfamiliar settings.
Self-Injurious or Aggressive Behavior
Does your child’s behavior escalate quickly without an obvious reason? Do they bite, hit, or kick themselves or others? Do they seem unable to control their body, posing safety risks to themselves or others? This behavior is typically not intentional. It’s often a response to sensory overload or an emotional experience—whether frustration, excitement, or happiness. While it can be difficult to witness as a parent, it’s important to remember that the first step is helping your child regulate their body.
Impulsive Behavior
Does your child impulsively grab objects, knock things over, or take food from others—like stealing fries off a stranger’s plate at a restaurant? These behaviors reflect difficulty with inhibition. For some clients, stopping their body from acting impulsively is one of the most challenging tasks. Practicing self-regulation and body control is essential, not only for social situations but also for ensuring safety.