Learning social communication skills is important to allow your teen to express what they want and need and as the building block to relationships. Communication can look different for each teen. Autistic people may be more literal in how they express their thoughts.
There are lots of ways we communicate as humans. Teens may use nonverbal expressions like pointing at something they want, shaking their head yes or no, or having a meltdown. These can all be ways to share what they’re feeling. Assistive technology, communication devices or simple sign language can be helpful tools for autistic teens who are nonverbal or have limited verbal ability to communicate.
We believe everyone needs to have a method of communication. Without communication the result is frustration and challenging behaviors. Behavior is communication.
Speech Language Therapy, structured social skills groups and other therapy approaches can be used to gradually teach teens communication skills. Your school system may be able to help and you can include these goals in your teen’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). This education article in the Milestones Autism Planning (MAP) Tool provides more information about IEPs.
Tips to Help Your Teen Learn Social Communication
Each teen has different needs, challenges and level of interest in communicating and having friendships with other people. Social skills and communication are important to be able to express themselves and form relationships at the level and way they wish. Here are strategies to help.
Social skills groups for teens with a speech therapist, psychologist, social worker or school counselor who work with autistic teens give them practice. They can also help with dating and relationship skills. Look for a speech therapist who specializes in functional communication if that is your teen's need. Functional communication involves practical skills like social communication and learning how to start and maintain a conversation, versus sound and speech production.
Get help with social communication skills as part of your teen’s public school education by including these skills in your teen's IEP as appropriate.
Some families may not be able to access all these kinds of therapies for a variety of reasons. Keep in mind that services through your public school are free. Medical coverage may only include a co-pay (always check your insurance coverage to be clear on fees and coverage). But there are many other ways to work toward goals for your teen.
If English is not your primary language, in school and medical settings, you can request an interpreter. Your private insurance may have interpreters for therapy appointments. You can also ask if a professional speaks that language.
You can coach your family and friends to work on communication skills with your teen. Demonstrate by example simple techniques you use or have picked up from school and your teen's therapist(s).
The Milestones free autism Helpdesk is here to support you, share ideas and connect you with resources.
As you go about daily routines, involve your teen and ask them questions like "What comes next?" "What should we take with us for our walk or picnic?" "What would you like to do this weekend?" Use everyday opportunities to prompt discussions that give them conversation practice.
Have your teen keep a journal so they get practice remembering things that happened during the day. They could take photos during an activity that can be added to their journal and can be used as a prompt for a conversation about an activity.
Connect with other parents with autistic teens or young adults who have been there and can share their experiences. The Milestones Resource Center includes support groups and the Milestones Helpdesk can help connect you as well.
Prepare (or prime) your teen for what to expect and basics for how to handle an activity or situation. A helpful tool is a social story, which is a story with images that shows an activity or situation that you want to teach.
Role playing is very helpful in giving your teen the opportunity to practice having a conversation. Family members may be helpful in doing this with your teen.
Finding Activities to Practice Social Skills
Keep in mind your teen’s challenges including sensory issues when considering different activities or therapies.
Over time teens develop and change at their own pace, so what they need evolves as do the kind of providers, activities and interests that will engage them and help them grow.
The Leisure Skills article in the MAP will also give you tips for finding activities that may provide social skill communication opportunities.
Milestones can help you find these resources through our Helpdesk or individual or family consultations.
