Autism is a complex neurological disorder that affects how a person behaves, interacts, and communicates. It can be challenging to identify autism in children, especially when they are non-verbal. Call 855.915.2545 to speak with someone from the knowledgeable and compassionate team at Camp Worth in Texas about the signs of non-verbal autism and how our counseling and behavior analysis program can help children and teens diagnosed with autism learn how to communicate better.
What Is Autism?
Autism—often called autism spectrum disorder (ASD)—is characterized by difficulties with social interaction and communication and restricted interests and behaviors. It is classified as a spectrum disorder because it encompasses many different types of autism, from mild to severe. Although there is no known cure for autism, early intervention can help improve outcomes for those on the spectrum.
Children diagnosed with ASD may display various symptoms. Some common types of autism seen in children include:
- Asperger’s syndrome
- Rett syndrome
- Childhood disintegrative disorder
- Pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)
Non-verbal autism is a type of ASD that is particularly challenging to diagnose because children with non-verbal autism cannot communicate verbally. Non-verbal autism, as a diagnosis, can be part of other types of ASD—such as Asperger’s syndrome, for example.
What Are the Signs of Non-Verbal Autism in Children?
Non-verbal autistic children may have difficulty expressing themselves verbally or understanding language entirely. Other signs may include the following:
- Poor eye contact
- Repetitive movements or behaviors, such as rocking back and forth or hand flapping
- Difficulty interpreting body language or facial expressions
- Poor motor skills or coordination issues
- Hypersensitivity to specific sounds or textures
It’s important to note that every child on the spectrum is unique. Some may display more obvious signs, while others may not show any at all. Seeking help is crucial if your child is diagnosed with non-verbal autism because communication is an essential part of life that non-verbal children must learn to do. Without these skills, non-verbal autistic children may struggle socially and academically.
How to Help Children Diagnosed with Non-Verbal Autism
If your child has been diagnosed with non-verbal autism, it’s vital to seek specialized support as soon as possible. Programs tailored for children diagnosed with non-verbal autism often include:
- Speech and language therapy – To help non-verbal children learn how to express themselves verbally
- Occupational therapy – To help non-verbal children learn everyday skills, such as brushing their teeth or getting dressed
- Applied behavior analysis (ABA) – To teach non-verbal children positive behaviors and communication strategies
- Social skills groups – To help non-verbal autistic children interact with and understand their peers
- Counseling services – To help non-verbal children process and express their emotions
- Parent education classes – To help non-verbal children’s caregivers understand and support them
Early intervention can make all the difference in helping them reach their full potential later on in life. Camp Worth offers specialized services for teens on the spectrum who have difficulty expressing themselves verbally and need extra support learning communication skills. Camp Worth provides individualized programs tailored specifically for those with non-verbal autism to reach their goals and succeed academically and socially.
Find Support for Teens Diagnosed with Non-Verbal Autism in Texas at Camp Worth
Non-verbal autism can be challenging to identify due to its wide range of symptoms that vary significantly between individuals. However, if you know what signs to look for, you can better prepare yourself for helping your child reach their fullest potential later in life. Camp Worth offers specialized services designed specifically for teens diagnosed with non-verbal autism. Hence, they can develop communication skills to help them succeed academically and socially into adulthood. Contact Fort Worth today at 855.915.2545 to learn more about non-verbal autism and how our knowledgeable and compassionate staff can help you and your child.
