How to Help Your Nonverbal Child Speak

Table of Contents

1. Understanding Nonverbal Communication and the Potential for Speech
2. Foundational Strategies for Encouraging Communication
3. Targeted Speech Therapy Exercises at Home
4. Advanced Tools and Support for Communication
5. Why Speech Blubs is Your Partner in This Journey
6. Conclusion
7. Frequently Asked Questions

The journey of parenthood is filled with countless joys and unique challenges. For parents of a nonverbal child, particularly those on the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), one of the most profound challenges can be the fundamental desire to understand and connect with their child. You long to know when they’re hungry, what they want to play, or if they’re feeling anxious or joyful. This inability to easily decipher your child’s wants and needs can be a source of constant worry, keeping you up at night with unanswered questions and an aching desire to connect.

For many years, it was a widespread belief that children who remained nonverbal past the age of four might never develop spoken language. However, groundbreaking research, such as a pivotal 2013 study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, has offered immense hope. This study, which followed 500 children, concluded that nonverbal children can indeed learn to speak later in life, with some even achieving remarkable fluency into their teenage years. This paradigm shift means that engaging a nonverbal child doesn’t imply resignation to only nonverbal communication methods; rather, it encourages us to use these methods as powerful stepping stones toward spoken language, while also fostering effective strategies for mutual understanding.

Every child is wonderfully unique, especially those with ASD. A strategy that shines for one child might need adaptation for another. Yet, there are tried-and-true techniques that parents and caregivers can embrace to not only reach their nonverbal child but also to empower their child to convey their thoughts, feelings, and desires more effectively. At Speech Blubs, we understand this journey intimately. Our mission is to empower children to “speak their minds and hearts,” a commitment born from our founders’ personal experiences with speech challenges. We created the tool we wished we had – an immediate, effective, and joyful solution for the 1 in 4 children who need speech support. This post will delve into comprehensive strategies, from foundational communication builders to targeted exercises and the role of innovative tools, all designed to help your nonverbal child find their voice.

Understanding Nonverbal Communication and the Potential for Speech

When we talk about a “nonverbal” child, it doesn’t mean they don’t communicate or understand. It refers to a child who has no or very limited spoken language. They might communicate through pointing, gestures, sounds, or other behaviors. This is particularly common in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with studies indicating that between 25% and 30% of autistic individuals are nonspeaking or have limited verbal abilities. It’s crucial to remember that nonverbal does not mean non-communicative or unintelligent; it simply means their primary mode of expression isn’t spoken words.

The hopeful news from recent research underscores that speech development is a dynamic process. Even if a child hasn’t started speaking by a certain age, the potential for language acquisition often remains. Our role as parents and caregivers is to nurture this potential, creating an environment rich in communication opportunities and providing the right tools and support. This involves understanding their current communication style, validating it, and then gently guiding them towards verbal expression. It’s about building a bridge from where they are now to where they can be, one sound, one word, one phrase at a time.

Why Early Intervention and Consistent Engagement Matter

Early intervention is repeatedly shown to be incredibly beneficial for children with speech delays or ASD. Consistent engagement from parents, guided by strategies often recommended by speech-language pathologists (SLPs), can significantly impact a child’s development. These interventions don’t always require a clinical setting; many powerful speech therapy exercises and behavior modification activities can be seamlessly integrated into daily routines at home, during playtime, story time, or even meal times. Adding just 5 to 10 minutes of such engaging “sessions” daily can make a profound difference. The key is to keep these interactions short, fun, and highly motivating for the child.

We believe that every child deserves the chance to express themselves fully. That’s why we’ve designed Speech Blubs to be a scientifically grounded, play-based solution that supports parents in these crucial early years. Our app provides an active, “smart screen time” alternative to passive viewing, encouraging interaction and communication. If you’re wondering if your child could benefit from a structured, engaging approach to communication, we invite you to take our quick 3-minute preliminary screener. It involves just 9 simple questions and provides an assessment along with next-steps plan, and even a free 7-day trial of Speech Blubs.

Foundational Strategies for Encouraging Communication

Before words emerge, communication begins in many forms. These foundational strategies build the bedrock upon which spoken language can grow.

1. Nonverbal Communication as a Bridge to Language Development

While spoken words are often the ultimate goal, it’s essential to recognize and encourage existing nonverbal communication. Gestures, eye contact, pointing, and even certain sounds are all vital building blocks for language. By nurturing these, we create a pathway for words.

• Model and Exaggerate Gestures: Be intentional about your own nonverbal cues. When you ask your child to pick up a toy, don’t just ask; point to the toy, nod “yes” when they choose correctly, or clap when they accomplish a task. Universal gestures like holding out your arms for a hug, waving goodbye, or opening your hands to show “all gone” are easy for young, nonverbal children to interpret and eventually imitate.
• Emphasize Eye Contact: When you’re interacting, get down to your child’s eye level. This makes it easier for them to see your facial expressions and mouth movements, which are crucial for learning to speak.
• Respond to All Forms of Communication: If your child points, reaches, or makes a sound, acknowledge it. “Oh, you want the ball!” or “I see you’re looking at the book.” This validates their attempts to communicate and encourages them to try more.

2. Imitation and Mirroring: A Two-Way Conversation

Imitation is a powerful learning tool, especially for nonverbal children. It’s not just about them imitating you; it’s about you imitating them, too! This mirroring creates a shared experience and fosters a sense of mutual understanding, almost like an early form of conversation.

• Follow Your Child’s Lead in Play: If your child stacks a block, you stack a block. If they make a silly sound, you make it back. This simple act tells them, “I see you, I hear you, and I understand you.” It encourages them to continue their actions and sounds, and often, they will then try to imitate your actions.
• Role-Playing with Toys: Use everyday toys like cars, dolls, or action figures to engage in simple role-playing. Drive a car and make “vroom” sounds; then wait for your child to do the same. This can happen with gestures and sounds before words.
• Speech Blubs and Video Modeling: Our app harnesses the power of imitation through its unique “video modeling” methodology. Children learn by watching and imitating their peers on screen. This isn’t passive viewing; it’s an active, engaging process. For example, in our “Animal Kingdom” section, children watch other kids make animal sounds and then imitate them, engaging mirror neurons in their brains. This peer-to-peer learning creates a motivating and effective pathway to speech. Learn more about our research and methodology here.

3. Letting Your Child Set the Pace and Topic

A child is most engaged when they are interested. Capitalize on their natural curiosity by following their lead and narrating their activities.

• Narrate Their Play: If your child is sorting shapes, you can say, “Square!” when they pick up a square, and “In!” when they place it in the basket. This connects words directly to their chosen activity, making the meaning clear and relevant.
• Use Single Words, Then Build: Start with single, clear words that are easy to understand and imitate. “Ball,” “Eat,” “Go,” “Up.” Once your child starts using these, gradually add a second word: “Roll ball,” “Eat apple,” “Go out.” This scaffolded approach helps them build vocabulary and sentence structure step-by-step.
• Provide Choices: Empower your child by offering choices in everyday situations. Hold up two toys and say, “Car or truck?” or during snack time, “Apple or banana?” Even if they initially point or gesture, you are modeling the language of choice.

4. Creating Engaging Play Opportunities

Play is the universal language of childhood, and for nonverbal children, it’s a critical avenue for communication development.

• Sensory Play: Many children with ASD have unique sensory needs or aversions. Engage them with sensory activities like play dough, sand, water, or scented materials. These activities provide rich opportunities to describe tactile experiences, initially with gestures and sounds, then words. For instance, “Wet!” or “Squishy!”
• Sorting and Matching Games: Games involving sorting objects by color, shape, or category (e.g., animals, vehicles) are excellent for developing visual, motor, and communication skills. You can narrate the process: “Red car,” “Big block,” “Matching!”
• Music and Movement: Sing simple songs, play toy instruments, or dance together. Music can be incredibly engaging and often elicits vocalizations or movements that serve as communication.
• Leverage Interests: If your child loves animals, use animal toys and make animal noises. Our Speech Blubs app features categories like “Animal Kingdom” which can be incredibly motivating. When a child sees other children making “moo” or “baa” sounds, it’s a fun and natural way for them to practice these initial vocalizations and words.

Targeted Speech Therapy Exercises at Home

Beyond foundational strategies, specific exercises can be integrated into your daily routine to encourage verbal expression. Remember, these should always be short, engaging, and adapted to your child’s interest level.

1. Make Animal Noises

Children, especially those with ASD, often have a strong affinity for animals and respond well to animal sounds.

• Activity: Set up a toy farm or zoo. As your child picks up each animal, mimic its noise. “Cow says moo!” “Dog says woof!” Encourage them to imitate.
• Speech Blubs Link: Our app has dedicated “Animal Kingdom” activities where children watch and imitate peers making animal sounds, making it a powerful digital tool for this exercise. It’s a prime example of our “smart screen time” at work – actively engaging your child rather than passively entertaining them.

2. Teach Essential Words

Focus on a few highly functional words that can significantly reduce frustration for your child. Words like “more,” “help,” and “stop” are powerful tools for self-advocacy.

• Activity: During mealtime, when your child finishes a desired food, gesture to their plate and say “more.” You can pair it with a simple sign for “more.” Wait patiently for their response, whether it’s a sound, a gesture, or eventually, the word. Apply this in various contexts: “More swing?” “More bubbles?”
• Building Vocabulary: While some children with ASD may have limited vocabulary, they can learn new words. Use objects and actions in familiar environments. If you’re playing with a ball, repeatedly say “ball” and “roll” as you interact.

3. Using Favorite Toys and Snacks as Motivators

Motivation is key. Leverage what your child loves to encourage communication.

• Activity: Place a favorite toy or snack just out of their reach but within sight. Wait for them to gesture, point, or make a sound to indicate their desire. Initially, you might point and say the word (“toy” or “snack”) to help them connect the visual to the verbal. Over time, they may learn to label the item themselves.
• Encouraging Requests: This exercise encourages your child to initiate communication and make requests, a crucial step in developing functional language.

4. Provide Positive Reinforcement

Children thrive on positive attention and rewards.

• Activity: Every time your child attempts to communicate—whether by making a sound, pointing, or using a word—respond quickly and enthusiastically. Offer a small, desirable reward, like a favorite sticker, a high-five, or extra time with a preferred toy. The reward should be something genuinely exciting for your child.
• Behavior Shaping: This simple concept encourages desired behaviors. It can be particularly effective for encouraging a child to respond to their name, follow simple instructions, or attempt new words.

5. Present Them with Multiple Choices

Empowering your child to make choices fosters independence and provides natural opportunities for communication.

• Activity: While dressing, hold up two shirts and name their colors: “Red shirt or blue shirt?” During playtime, offer, “Blocks or car?” Point to each item as you name it. Wait for their gesture or vocalization. Even if it takes weeks, consistency will encourage them to express their preferences.

6. Reading Short Stories and Singing Songs

Reading and singing create rich language environments, even for nonverbal children.

• Activity: Choose interactive books with vivid pictures, textures, or pull-outs. As you read, point to illustrations and describe what you see. “Look! A big, yellow bird!” Ask simple yes/no questions or encourage them to point to objects you name. Singing rhymes also encourages rhythm and sound imitation.
• Speech Blubs and Reading Blubs: Our Yearly plan not only gives you access to the full Speech Blubs experience but also includes the fantastic Reading Blubs app. This can further enhance literacy and language development in a fun, interactive way.

7. Engage in Sensory Activities

Many children with ASD have sensory processing differences. Engaging these senses can open new pathways for communication.

• Activity: Offer activities like playing with homemade musical instruments, footprint painting, silly putty, or scented playdough. Encourage them to explore different textures, smells, and sensations. Narrate their experience: “Squishy!” “Smells sweet!” This helps them connect words to their sensory world. Be mindful of their specific sensory preferences and aversions.

Advanced Tools and Support for Communication

As your child progresses, or if they have more significant communication challenges, additional tools and professional support can be invaluable.

1. Communication Boards and Assistive Devices

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices are powerful tools for nonverbal individuals, and they don’t replace speech; they build a foundation for it.

• Activity: Communication boards, whether handmade or digital apps, feature pictures or symbols that a child can touch to express needs or thoughts. Start with basic requests like “I want [picture of snack]” or “I feel [picture of happy/sad face].” Over time, you can expand to more complex sentences and questions. These tools help reduce frustration and provide an immediate means of expression.

2. Teaching Facial Expressions

Many children with ASD struggle to interpret or use facial expressions.

• Activity: Use picture cards or apps with different facial expressions. Name and describe each emotion: “This is happy!” Point to a happy face. Then, practice making the faces together in a mirror. This helps them understand and eventually use these critical nonverbal cues in social interactions.

3. The Indispensable Role of Professional Guidance

While home-based strategies are incredibly effective, professional guidance from a speech-language pathologist (SLP) is often essential. They can provide a personalized assessment, diagnose specific speech delays, and create a tailored therapy plan.

• Collaborative Approach: Our Speech Blubs app is designed to be a powerful supplement to professional therapy, not a replacement. We work with SLPs to ensure our content is evidence-based and effective. By implementing home activities guided by your SLP and using tools like Speech Blubs, you create a comprehensive and cohesive support system for your child.

4. Patience and Space: A Crucial Component

Perhaps one of the most vital strategies is simply to wait. Children with ASD often need more time to process information and formulate a response.

• Activity: After asking a question or making a request, pause. Count to five or ten in your head. Look at your child expectantly, with genuine interest, for any sign of a response—a sound, a gaze, a movement. Resist the urge to complete their sentences or answer for them. When they do offer any form of response, react quickly and positively. This consistent reinforcement empowers them and validates their efforts. It teaches them that their voice, in whatever form it takes, matters.

Why Speech Blubs is Your Partner in This Journey

At Speech Blubs, we believe every child has a unique voice waiting to be heard. Our company was born from a deep personal understanding of speech challenges, as our founders all grew up with speech problems. We created the tool we wished we had—an immediate, effective, and joyful solution for children needing speech support. Our goal is to blend scientific principles with play, transforming screen time into “smart screen time” that actively fosters communication skills.

• Video Modeling Excellence: We leverage the power of video modeling, a proven technique where children learn by watching and imitating their peers. This natural, engaging method, backed by extensive research, helps activate mirror neurons in the brain, making learning intuitive and fun. This is a crucial distinction from passive cartoon viewing; it’s an active, imitative experience designed for real learning.
• Fostering Confidence, Not Just Words: While we aim for verbal communication, our focus extends beyond just speaking. We want to foster a love for communication, build confidence, reduce frustration, and create joyful family learning moments. We understand that this journey takes time, and we’re here to provide a supportive, engaging environment for your child’s growth.
• A Tool for Family Connection: Speech Blubs is more than an app; it’s a powerful tool for family connection. The activities are designed for adult co-play and support, turning learning moments into cherished shared experiences.
• Backed by Science: Our methodology is rigorously developed and backed by scientific research, consistently earning top ratings on the MARS scale for app quality. Explore our research page to understand the science behind our success.
• Parent-Approved Success: We’re incredibly proud of the positive impact we’ve had on families worldwide. Read testimonials from other parents who have seen their children make incredible strides with Speech Blubs.

We want to be transparent about how we deliver this value. We offer two main subscription plans to fit your family’s needs:

• Monthly Plan: Priced at $14.99 per month. This plan provides access to the core Speech Blubs app, offering a consistent stream of engaging activities.
• Yearly Plan: Our most popular and highly recommended option, priced at just $59.99 per year. This breaks down to an incredible value of just $4.99 per month! By choosing the Yearly plan, you save 66% compared to the monthly subscription.

The Yearly plan isn’t just about significant savings; it’s about unlocking the full potential of our platform. It includes exclusive, high-value features designed to supercharge your child’s development:

• A 7-Day Free Trial: Try everything before you commit! This invaluable trial period is only available with the Yearly plan, allowing you to experience the full benefits firsthand.
• The Extra Reading Blubs App: Beyond speech, this bonus app helps build foundational literacy skills, available only to Yearly subscribers.
• Early Access to New Updates: Get the newest features and content before anyone else.
• 24-Hour Support Response Time: Our dedicated team is on standby to provide prompt assistance when you need it most.

We strongly encourage you to choose the Yearly plan to get the free 7-day trial and access the full suite of features that will empower your child’s communication journey. It’s the best way to experience the comprehensive support we offer.

Conclusion

Helping a nonverbal child speak is a journey paved with patience, love, and consistent effort. While it presents unique challenges, the potential for communication and verbal development is immense. By embracing strategies that foster nonverbal communication, leveraging imitation and play, integrating targeted exercises into daily life, and utilizing supportive tools, you can create a rich environment where your child feels empowered to connect and eventually find their voice. Remember, every sound, every gesture, every attempt at communication is a victory.

At Speech Blubs, we are dedicated to being your partner on this transformative path, providing scientifically-backed, joyful, and effective experiences that empower your child to speak their minds and hearts. We believe in the power of play and the strength of family connection in fostering communication skills.

Ready to take the first step and provide your child with the best possible start on their communication journey? Download Speech Blubs on the App Store or get it on Google Play today! To unlock the full potential of our app, including a 7-day free trial and the Reading Blubs app, be sure to select the Yearly plan when you create your account. We’re excited to embark on this journey with you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is it truly possible for a nonverbal child to learn to speak?

Yes, absolutely! While it was once commonly believed that nonverbal children might never speak if they didn’t by a certain age, recent research has brought immense hope. A 2013 study by the American Academy of Pediatrics, for example, showed that many nonverbal children, including those with ASD, can develop spoken language later in life, sometimes even achieving fluency in their teenage years. The key is consistent, targeted intervention and a supportive, language-rich environment.

Q2: How is Speech Blubs different from passive screen time like watching cartoons?

Speech Blubs offers “smart screen time” that is fundamentally different from passive viewing. Our app employs a unique “video modeling” methodology where children learn by actively watching and imitating their peers. This engages “mirror neurons” in the brain, making the learning process interactive and effective. Unlike passive cartoons, Speech Blubs requires active participation, encourages vocalizations, and is designed to be co-played with an adult, transforming screen time into a powerful tool for communication development and family connection.

Q3: When should I seek professional help for my nonverbal child?

If you have any concerns about your child’s communication development, it’s always best to consult with a pediatrician or a speech-language pathologist (SLP) as early as possible. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and guidance. Speech Blubs is designed to be a powerful supplement to professional therapy, providing engaging home-based activities that support and reinforce the strategies learned in therapy. If you’re unsure, you can also take our quick 3-minute preliminary screener to get an assessment and next-steps plan.

Q4: What’s the best way to get started with Speech Blubs and what are the pricing options?

The best way to get started with Speech Blubs is by choosing our Yearly plan. It costs $59.99 per year, which breaks down to just $4.99/month, saving you 66% compared to the Monthly plan ($14.99/month). Crucially, the Yearly plan includes a 7-day free trial, the bonus Reading Blubs app, early access to new updates, and 24-hour support response. The Monthly plan does not include these benefits or the free trial. To experience the full suite of features and benefits, we highly recommend selecting the Yearly plan when you download our app or create your account.