I understand that therapy can be costly, but there are still various ways you can work on improving your nonverbal autism at home. Here are some strategies and techniques that might help:
Visual Communication Systems: Use visual aids like picture cards or communication boards to express needs, feelings, and desires. You can create or find pre-made visual supports online. These aids can assist in understanding and expressing yourself.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Devices: AAC devices, such as tablets with specialized communication apps, can help you communicate through text-to-speech or symbol-based systems.
Social Stories: Create or find social stories that illustrate different social situations and appropriate responses. Social stories can help you understand and navigate various social interactions.
Sensory Tools: Autism can often be associated with sensory sensitivities. Identifying sensory triggers and using sensory tools like fidget toys or noise-canceling headphones can be helpful in managing sensory overload.
Structured Routine: Establish a structured daily routine to provide predictability and reduce anxiety. Visual schedules can be used to outline the day's activities.
Visual Timers: Use visual timers to help you understand the duration of an activity or how much time is left before transitioning to something else.
Engage in Special Interests: Embrace your special interests, as they can be motivating and offer opportunities for learning and communication.
Joint Attention Activities: Engage in activities that encourage joint attention, where you and others focus on the same object or activity. This can help develop communication and social skills.
Emotional Regulation Techniques: Learn and practice techniques to manage emotions and cope with frustration or anxiety, such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises.
Encourage Gestures: Use gestures and body language to supplement communication. Pointing, nodding, or other gestures can help convey your thoughts and feelings.
Pair Words with Actions: When introducing new words or concepts, pair them with relevant actions or visuals to enhance understanding and memory.
Regarding the ways therapists use language therapy, they often employ evidence-based strategies like:
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): ABA therapy breaks down language skills into manageable steps, providing positive reinforcement for progress.
Speech and Language Therapy: Speech therapists use various techniques to develop communication skills, such as picture exchange communication systems (PECS) and verbal prompting.
Play-Based Therapy: Particularly for children, play-based interventions can facilitate communication and social skills in a natural and enjoyable setting.
Social Skills Training: Therapists work on developing social interaction abilities, such as turn-taking, making eye contact, and understanding nonverbal cues.
Peer-Mediated Interventions: Therapists may involve peers or siblings in therapy sessions to support social communication.
AAC Training: For those who benefit from AAC devices, therapists can teach how to use and integrate them effectively into daily life.
Remember, even without formal therapy, consistent practice, patience, and support from family and friends can make a significant difference in improving communication and overall well-being. If possible, consider reaching out to local autism support groups or online communities for additional guidance and support.