Social communication is about more than just talking—it’s how children connect, share, and build relationships. It includes skills like making eye contact, taking turns in conversation, understanding nonverbal cues (like facial expressions and body language), staying on topic, and using language in different social settings.
For some children, these skills develop naturally through play and everyday interactions. But for others—especially children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)—social communication can be a source of confusion or overwhelm.
Understanding Social Communication in Autism
Children with autism often experience differences in how they communicate and connect with others. These differences are not deficits—they are part of who they are. Some children may prefer factual conversations over small talk, may communicate better through gestures or devices than spoken words, or may need extra time to process social cues.
At Approach Speech Pathology, we use a neuroaffirming approach. This means we:
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Respect each child’s communication style and preferences
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Avoid pushing eye contact or masking behaviours
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Focus on building authentic social connection—not on making children “fit in”
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Support children in understanding social expectations without judgment or pressure to conform
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Work collaboratively with families to honour the child’s identity, culture, and sensory needs
How Speech Pathologists Can Help
As speech pathologists, we support children in building meaningful, confident communication—on their terms. This may include helping children:
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Develop communication tools that work for them (spoken words, AAC, gestures, visuals)
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Understand social cues and emotions in a supportive, non-pressuring way
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Build friendships and shared play routines
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Communicate needs, boundaries, and preferences clearly
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Participate in social settings in a way that feels safe and empowering
Support is always individualised—there’s no “one size fits all” approach.
Working as a Team: Speech, OT, Psychology, and Play Therapy
Social communication overlaps with many other areas of development. That’s why we often work closely with:
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Occupational Therapists (OTs) – to support sensory regulation, attention, emotional regulation, and social engagement through play
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Psychologists – who may work with the child and family to build emotional resilience, manage anxiety, or support social confidence
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Play Therapists – who use play to help children explore feelings, relationships, and communication in a safe, therapeutic space
Together, we create a holistic, child-centred plan that builds on the child’s strengths and supports their wellbeing.
When to Seek Support
You may want to consider a social communication assessment if your child:
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Struggles to make or maintain friendships
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Has difficulty understanding social cues or rules
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Communicates mostly through behaviours (e.g., meltdowns, withdrawal)
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Prefers solitary play or has trouble joining in group play
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Has received a diagnosis of autism or is undergoing assessment
We’re here to help your child feel heard, connected, and confident—just as they are.
If you’d like to learn more about social communication support, contact us today or submit an enquiry here.