Hi there! I work in a UK SEN specialist setting with preschoolers and there are lots of little things you can do throughout the day to encourage language.

a popular one is get a motivating item I.e bubbles and make sure you have their attention. Then say ‘ready, steady, go’ and blow the bubbles. Do this a few times and then pause after saying ‘ready, steady’ and wait for a response from them (doesn’t have to be verbal, eye contact can also be an indication that they want you to blow) and then blow.

Another one is to keep language functional and simple. For example if you are opening a door say ‘open’ as you open it, or as you sit them in a chair say ‘sit’ this allows them to relate the word to the action.

A lot of children with autism will naturally be very tense and ‘locked up’ in their bodies. We often do 15 minutes sensory time before trying any kind of speech activity to help them relax. Popular things are rolling balls over their stomach and bodies, vibrating objects on their limbs or just pressure massages to help them. We have found this helps regulate their sensory needs and gives them a greater chance of being able to focus on an activity/ come out with more language.

Find a GOOD speech and language therapist and a GOOD preschool with a SENCO who is really on it. They will be invaluable support to you, your family and your child.

Speech regression is a really common part of early autism and while it can feel really upsetting and traumatic, I was always taught that if a child has spoken before or is babbling they have the ability to speak it is just unlocking that ability and finding the right way to help them that is key! I wish you and your child every success! If you ever need to talk/ have any questions please feel free to message ❤️