The age at which autistic children start talking in full sentences can vary widely from one individual to another. Language development in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a highly diverse and complex aspect. Some autistic children may start speaking in full sentences at a relatively typical age, while others might have delays in language development and may begin using full sentences later.
In typical development, children usually begin to use two-word phrases around the age of 18 to 24 months. By age 3, many children have developed the ability to communicate using full sentences, although their sentences may still be simple and not fully grammatically correct.
For some autistic children, language delays or difficulties in communication are one of the early signs of ASD. They might have challenges with speech and language, including delayed language milestones and difficulties with expressive and receptive language skills. Some autistic children may start speaking in full sentences around the typical age, while others may not do so until later, such as age 4 or beyond.
It is essential to understand that each autistic individual is unique, and their language development is influenced by a combination of genetic, neurological, environmental, and individual factors. Early intervention and speech therapy can play a vital role in supporting language development in autistic children and helping them improve their communication skills. If you have concerns about a child's language development or suspect they might have autism, it's important to seek guidance from healthcare professionals and specialists experienced in diagnosing and supporting children with developmental concerns.