What Is Your Child's Behavior Telling You?
Expertise from Dr. Tisa Johnson-Hooper, Pediatrician and Medical Director, and Dr. Emily LeRose, Speech-Language Pathologist, both from Henry Ford Health.
When a child with autism acts out, withdraws or displays unexpected behaviors, they’re not being difficult — they’re communicating. But what are they trying to say?
Experts share how parents can interpret behaviors and support their child’s communication.
Behavior as Expression
“Whether a child is using words or not, their behavior expresses a want, a need, a feeling or a thought,” explains Dr. LeRose. Many children with autism who struggle to verbally communicate may rely on behaviors instead of words, such as:
- Tantrums or meltdowns when struggling to communicate
- Hand-flapping or spinning to process sensory input
- Pacing or repetitive movements to self-soothe
- Pulling a caregiver toward an object instead of verbalizing a request
How to Help Your Child Communicate
To better understand and build your child’s communication, try these strategies:
- Use simple language — Narrate daily activities and play with simple, functional language, use gestures, and offer choices instead of asking open-ended questions.
- Use visuals — Picture schedules, visual choices, and timers add structure.
- Encourage AAC — Tools like sign language, picture exchange systems or speech-generating devices help non-speaking children express themselves.
- Positive reinforcement — positively acknowledge all of your child’s attempts at communication
“Communication isn’t just about words,” says Dr. LeRose. “It’s about connection, and parents can nurture that every day.”
Need More Support?
If you’re struggling to interpret your child’s behaviors and want to focus on improving communication, a speech-language pathologist can help. Learn more about autism communication strategies from Henry Ford Health.
