ABSTRACT
Effective and appropriate communication is a vital prerequisite for creating and maintaining supportive environments for neurodivergent children and their families. Yet communication difficulties are common for autistic children or children with ADHD, dyspraxia or a combination of all three. Communication preference and capacity are further completely unique to each neurodivergent child and their parent/caregiver.
This chapter explores the distinctive communication challenges which may present with autism, ADHD and dyspraxia. The significance of identifying communication methods that are conducive to the child’s unique preferences and ability is discussed, in addition to alternative communication methods and the role of the practitioner in supporting the child and family to have their communication needs addressed. Targeted strategies for enhancing communication with neurodivergent children and their families such as honest and transparent communication and active listening are examined, in the context of creating truly supportive environments.
