Making December Magic Accessible for All Children
As a new year begins, many families find themselves reflecting on growth and setting goals for the months ahead. For parents of children with autism spectrum disorder, this time offers a meaningful opportunity to focus on communication development, a fundamental skill that opens doors to connection, learning, and independence.
Communication challenges affect individuals with autism in different ways. Some children may be nonverbal or minimally verbal, while others struggle with social communication, understanding nonverbal cues, or expressing their needs effectively. Regardless of where your child is on their communication journey, setting thoughtful, achievable goals can make a significant difference in their progress throughout the year.
Understanding Communication Beyond Words
When we think about communication goals, it’s important to recognize that meaningful communication extends far beyond spoken language. For children with autism, communication might include gestures, picture systems, assistive technology, or alternative and augmentative communication methods.
“We embrace a holistic view of communication that goes far beyond words,” says Samantha Moore, Director of Home & Center-Based Children’s Services at the Trudeau Center. “Many children we work with may not communicate verbally, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have powerful emotions to express. Our job is to help them find their voice – whatever form that might take – and ensure they have effective ways to share their feelings, wants, and needs with the important people in their lives.”
Setting Effective Communication Goals
The most successful communication goals are specific, measurable, and functional. Rather than broad objectives like “improve communication,” effective goals might include teaching a child to request preferred items, respond to their name consistently, or initiate greetings with family members.
For younger children, goals might focus on foundational skills such as making eye contact, responding to simple instructions, or using gestures to communicate wants and needs. As skills develop, goals can become more complex, incorporating multi-word phrases, conversational turn-taking, or understanding abstract concepts.
The Role of Evidence-Based ABA Therapy
Applied Behavior Analysis provides a scientifically validated framework for developing communication skills in children with autism. Through systematic instruction, positive reinforcement, and data collection, ABA therapy helps children acquire new communication abilities while reducing frustration.
“The relationship between communication and mental health is profound, especially for children with developmental disabilities,” explains Andre Bessette, Ph.D., Vice President of Children’s Services at the Trudeau Center. “When children lack the tools to express their needs and emotions, feelings of frustration can manifest as behavioral challenges. By providing them with effective communication strategies, we’re not just addressing behavior. We’re supporting their overall emotional wellbeing and helping them build meaningful skills and connections with others.”
At Pathways Strategic Teaching Center, Board Certified Behavior Analysts work alongside families to create comprehensive treatment plans that address each child’s unique communication needs. This collaborative approach ensures that skills learned during therapy sessions generalize to home, school, and community settings.
Practical Steps for Families
While professional support through ABA therapy provides crucial structure and expertise, families play an essential role in supporting communication development. Creating consistent opportunities for communication throughout daily routines helps children practice emerging skills in natural contexts.
Consider your child’s interests and motivations when setting goals. Focusing on functional communication that helps your child navigate their daily world often yields the most meaningful progress.
Looking Ahead with Hope
For over 60 years, the Trudeau Center has helped children with autism and related disorders develop essential communication skills that transform their ability to connect with the world around them. Whether your child is taking their first steps toward communication or ready to refine more advanced skills, the dedicated professionals at Trudeau are here to support your family’s journey.
To learn how our comprehensive ABA services can support your family, visit www.trudeaucenter.org/pathways or call (401) 739-2700 to take the first step toward creating brighter futures through communication.
AI may have been used in the initial drafting and research of this article. The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be, nor should it be interpreted as, medical, therapeutic, or individualized service advice. Every person’s needs and circumstances are unique. For information about services specific to you or your loved one, please contact the Trudeau Center.
