# Teaching Non-Verbal Autistic Children: Strategies for Reading and Writing Teaching non-verbal autistic children can be challenging but rewarding. As a seasoned parent and educator, I have successfully helped my middle son learn reading and writing with a variety of creative and inclusive methods. This article shares my practical tips and strategies to help other parents and educators engage their non-verbal autistic children in the joy of reading and writing. ## Understanding the Journey Autism can challenge conventional learning methods, making it crucial to find personalized and engaging ways to support these children. My son, a non-verbal six-year-old, faced unique learning barriers. However, by incorporating his interests and using multi-sensory approaches, we were able to make significant progress in his journey to reading and writing. ### Creating an Engaging Environment #### Early Exposure to Books Reading to my son began in infancy. I made it a habit to read to him every day, even if it seemed like he was not paying attention. To capture his attention, I used various methods to make reading sessions interactive and exciting. One of the techniques was to have him in a Johnny Jump Up or high chair with things to do during the reading session. This way, he could still be himself while still being involved in the reading process. #### Utilizing Multimedia Content I incorporated technology to enhance his reading experience. For instance, we used reading apps and recorded TV shows like *Reading Rainbow* to adapt to his interests. *Reading Rainbow* became a staple in our home, and we would record episodes on the VCR to play whenever he wanted. This allowed him to explore his favorite topics, such as *sharks* when he was fascinated by them. #### Audio Books and Taped Stories Audio books were another effective tool. I would make books on tape for stories he particularly loved and provide a copy of the book so he could follow along. For example, during his *train phase*, we had tapes of *The Little Engine That Could* and *The Polar Express*. For his interest in *building*, we had copies of *Richard Scarry* books with taped stories. ### Incorporating Movement and Multisensory Learning Learning that involved movement and the whole body proved more effective for my son. For instance, we would make words out of pretzels and Play-Doh. We also used alphabet soup, alphabet cereal boxes, and magnetic words to tell stories on the refrigerator. Additionally, we used phonics tiles, floating sponge letters in the bathtub, and labels on household items to help with spelling and words. ### Involving the Whole Family Involving the entire family in the learning process was important to ensure that no one felt left out. We made it a family habit to write or draw in a daily journal. This helped to create a supportive and engaging learning environment. Even older siblings would be encouraged to participate, sometimes engaging more with a sibling than with parents themselves. ### Encouraging Card Collections Autistic children often have intense interests, and collecting information about their interests can be a valuable tool. Card collections, such as *Thomas the Tank Engine*, *geology* cards, and *shark* cards, were particularly engaging for my son. Encouraging him to read the content of these cards helped him practice his reading skills. ## Conclusion Teaching a non-verbal autistic child to read and write requires patience, creativity, and a supportive environment. By using multi-sensory learning, appealing to their interests, and involving the entire family, you can create an engaging and effective learning environment. Although naysayers might suggest that non-verbal children don’t understand or participate, my experience has shown that they can and do, often in surprising ways. So keep trying, stay patient, and watch as your child blossoms in their learning journey. ### Key Strategies 1. **Early Exposure to Books:** Read to your child regularly, even if they appear not to be paying attention. 2. **Utilize Multimedia Content:** Incorporate TV shows, apps, and recorded stories to keep your child engaged. 3. **Audio Books and Taped Stories:** Create audio books for your child’s favorite stories. 4. **Multisensory Learning:** Use interactive methods like literacy games, crafts, and technology. 5. **Family Involvement:** Encourage the whole family to participate in learning activities. 6. **Encourage Card Collections:** Use card collections to channel their interests into learning.

Keywords

- Autism - non-verbal children - reading strategies - writing for children with autism

This approach allows for a holistic and inclusive learning environment, ensuring that every child, regardless of their communication style, can find joy and progress in learning.