Breakthrough Speech Therapy Apps for Nonverbal Communication in Children with Autism

Breakthrough Speech Therapy Apps: Empowering Nonverbal Children with Autism.

Discover top speech therapy apps designed to help nonverbal children with autism communicate effectively. Learn how AAC technology transforms lives, explore expert recommendations, and find the best app for your child’s needs.

Published By: Aulixo® Clinic

Written By: Dr. Pravin Dhole

Overview

Imagine a world where your child freely communicates their needs, wants, and thoughts without feeling frustrated. Thanks to innovative speech therapy apps, this is now a reality for many autistic children who have trouble communicating verbally. By giving nonverbal kids a voice using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) technology, these apps enable them to communicate more effectively and interact with peers, instructors, and families in meaningful ways.

This article examines how technology is transforming speech therapy and why nonverbal communication is prevalent in autism.

We discuss the special features and advantages of some of the best speech therapy applications, such as Proloquo2Go, Avaz AAC, TouchChat HD, Speech Blubs, and CoughDrop. Additionally, you'll discover how to pick the ideal app for your child's particular requirements, guaranteeing an individualized and successful communication process.Success stories from real life demonstrate these apps' significant influence on kids' lives by giving them a sense of independence and self-assurance. Supported by knowledgeable analysis and easily accessible resources, this book will enable you to make well-informed choices regarding your child's communication development. These cutting-edge resources can open up a world of opportunities for nonverbal children with autism, regardless of your role as a parent, caregiver, or educator.

      I. With Tech, Nonverbal Children with Autism Find Their Voices

You are not alone if you have a child with autism struggling with verbal communication. These children often have difficulties communicating their thoughts, needs, and feelings to other people.

However, technology has made some incredible adaptations for your nonverbal children to get their communication across. Speech therapy apps are changing how children with autism communicate, bridging the divide between thoughts and speech.

However, with the help of technology, specifically Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) apps, there is now a solution in your hands to close this communication gap. One of the most common struggles when your child is diagnosed with ASD is limited verbal communication. Research indicates that 25-30% of children with autism are nonverbal or have few verbal skills. This isn’t to say your child is incapable of communicating; they just need different methods to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and needs.

The neurodiversity of autism influences your child's brain⁠ and how it processes and produces language. Children who may have some challenges in motor planning (apraxia of speech may get anxious and/or be neurodivergent and have sensory processing differences that affect how they communicate verbally. It makes sense to consider what lies behind these digital dialogues, as understanding these deep-seated factors can help you better appreciate how and why digital communication tools can be ever so effective.

   II.  Why is Nonverbal Communication Common in Autism?

Your child's journey through autism might become even more meaningful if you can understand the reasons for the frequent use of nonverbal communication to support him or her better. This complicated neurological difference acts upon communication in some very important ways.

There were many reasons for this, including:

·        Brain processing difference: 

Your child's brain processes information differently than those of neurotypical persons. Research has shown that the areas responsible for language processing and production may develop and function uniquely in the case of individuals with autism.

·        Neurological Differences: 

There is a difference in the way the neurological processes language in children with ASD that hinders them in their ability to create words and sentences.

·        Motor Planning Issues:

 Children with childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) have difficulty coordinating the muscles required for speech production.

·        Sensory Processing Differences: 

If sensory experiences are overwhelming or difficult to process, sensory input can make overwhelming verbal communication.

·        Social communication barriers: 

Includes understanding and using language in social situations and resorting to using alternative communication methods.

 

It's important to recognize that nonverbal communication in individuals with autism is not a deficit but a distinct way of processing and expressing information.

By comprehending these fundamental aspects, you can more effectively support and advocate for your child's unique communication requirements while assisting them in developing the skills that resonate with them.

Your role involves offering understanding, patience, and suitable support tools, whether that includes traditional speech therapy, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, or other communication methods tailored to your child's needs and preferences.

Check out our infographic below to learn how speech therapy apps can help non-verbal children develop their communication skills!

 III. The Best Speech Therapy Apps for Nonverbal Children with Autism

Not all apps for speech therapy are equal. Some have basic pictorial communication, while some have advanced speech-generation capabilities. Modern apps for speech therapy utilize evidence-based methods from both Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) to design the engaging, effective communication tools made available throughout the stores. They provide a voice for your child in their daily life & use symbols, pictures & text-to-speech technology.

Below are some of the most popular and effective speech therapy apps for kids with autism:

a)     Proloquo2Go

·        One of the most recognized AAC applications.

·        Utilizes symbols and text-to-speech technology to assist children in constructing sentences.

·        Completely customizable to meet various communication requirements.

·        Features natural-sounding voices for an enhanced user experience.

b)     Avaz AAC

·        Developed with insights from speech therapists.

·        Aids children in transitioning from picture-based to text-based communication.

·        Provides an intuitive interface with predictive text recommendations.

·        Supports multiple languages.

c)     TouchChat HD

·        Offers customizable vocabulary sets and voice options.

·        Enables children to communicate through symbols, words, or phrases.

·        Compatible with iPads and other tablets.

·        Available at the App store and Google play store.

d)     Speech Blubs

·        Incorporates voice modeling and interactive visuals to promote speech development.

·        The app bot talks to your child in different voices to keep the communication engaging.

·        Captivates children with engaging, animated characters.

·        Suitable for both verbal and nonverbal children.

e)     CoughDrop

·        A cloud-based AAC application that functions on various devices.

·        Empower users to express their needs, emotions, and thoughts.

·        Enables parents and therapists to monitor progress and tailor communication boards.

·        Easy to use with straightforward navigation.

These applications help bridge the gap in communication with an easily accessible, efficient, and engaging method for the child to explain their needs, feelings, and thoughts.

IV. How These Apps Work: Key Features for Effective Communication

No two speech therapy apps are alike, but the best ones have a handful of similar components that can help improve communication:

1.      Symbol-Based Communication

Numerous applications utilize Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) style symbols, enabling children to choose images that represent specific words or phrases. This approach is especially beneficial for those who face challenges with reading or spelling.

2.     Text-to-Speech Functionality

Apps like Proloquo2Go and Avaz AAC transform symbols and text into audible speech, empowering children to communicate through their devices.

3.     Customization Options

Parents and therapists can customize vocabulary boards, modify voice settings, and establish personalized categories that cater to the child’s specific needs.

4.     Interactive Learning Tools

Applications such as Speech Blubs promote speech practice by incorporating engaging animations, videos, and voice-activated activities

5.     Data Tracking and Progress Reports

Tools like CoughDrop provide real-time tracking of progress, enabling parents and therapists to observe improvements and adjust strategies as necessary.

   V.  Tips for Parents: Choosing the Right App for Your Child

Given there are so many options to choose from, the sheer number of available speech therapy apps can come as a bit of an overload. Here’s some important advice to help you decide

a)     Think About Your Child’s Communication Needs

·        Does your child process information more accurately with images than words?

·        Do they engage better with interactive components or more fixed communication boards?

b)     Look for Customization Features in the App

·        Choose an app that permits the personalization of vocabulary and voice settings.

·        Make sure it can grow as your child’s communication skills develop.

c)     Test the User-Friendliness

·        Select an app that has a user-friendly layout and is easily navigated by your child.

·        Trial versions or demos may be made available to see if the app works for your child.

d)     Check the Capability of Your Device

·        Some apps are only available for iPads or certain tablets, so research compatibility before buying. 

·        Ask Therapists and Other Parents for Recommendations. Speech therapists provide professional recommendations on what apps work best with your child’s therapy objectives. 

VI.  B.R.I.D.G.E.: Breaking Barriers to Communication through Innovative Interactive Digital Expression Guidance

·       B: Breaking Communication Barriers

When your child finds it difficult to communicate their ideas, you understand how upsetting it may be. Apps for speech therapy help nonverbal kids with autism find their voices by serving as a link between expression and silence.

·       R: Revolutionary Technology

The days of relying on conventional speech therapy for communication are long gone. Your child can communicate in ways that work best for them by using interactive tools, text-to-speech, and symbols with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) apps.

·       I: Interactive Education  

Imagine your youngster using an app that promotes involvement that is entertaining, responsive, and simple to use. Through the use of voice recognition and animations, apps such as Speech Blubs make learning fun and encourage kids to try new things.

·       D: Digital Support for Daily Interaction

Speech therapy applications adjust to real-life situations, whether your child is at home, school, or a social event. They give kids immediate access to a digital message board to communicate their needs at any time or place.

·       G: Guidance for Teachers and Parents 

It can be difficult to choose the best communication tool, but these apps provide customization, progress tracking, and advice supported by experts to help you. You can confidently guide your child through their speech development with the correct assistance.

·       E: Expression without limits

Every child should have a means of self-expression. These applications enable independence, self-assurance, and deep connections with friends, teachers, and family, in addition to facilitating communication.Your child will be equipped to connect, communicate, and thrive in a world that is ready to hear their voice if you embrace B.R.I.D.G.E.

VII. Success Stories: How Speech Therapy Apps Have Transformed Communication

The best kind of inspiration comes from the real-life stories of parents who've experienced the wonders of speech therapy apps for themselves. Here are some of its most wholesome examples:

       i.          Sakshi’s Story: Empowered to Speak with Proloquo2Go

 Sakshi’s frustration with being unable to express herself because she had no access to words was her previous life. At the age of six, with nonverbal autism, Sakshi would cry and have meltdowns when she could not communicate her wishes.

When her parents introduced her to Proloquo2Go, everything changed for her. She learned to use picture symbols to form phrases, telling her mom for the first time, "I'm hungry" or "I want a hug." Gradually, her confidence grew, expanding her inner world symbol by symbol. Her parents cannot imagine life without this app for Sakshi now. It has become her voice.

 

     ii.          Lokesh Journey: Gaining Independence with Avaz AAC

Lokesh, a 9-year-old bright, witty boy, was completely dependent on gestures for communication. His teachers and friends had difficulty understanding him, which gave him a feeling of isolation. Then, Avaz AAC came into his world.

At first, he was hesitant; he did not know how to operate the app. But once he started, it took time, and with motivation, he began to express himself in full phrases, for instance, "I want to play outside" or "Can I have my favorite toy?" Teachers recognized the shift in Liam-if he was not engaged anymore, he was participating in class on occasion, taking part in group activities, and making some friends. The app made him verbal and independent.

VI.  Conclusion: Embracing Technology for a Brighter Future

Speech therapy apps are vehicles, not just a means to an end, they are an opportunity for a better world in which children are heard and they are understood. If your child is starting to communicate or working on their communication skills for up to date, these apps can be game-changers.

By choosing the appropriate app, tailoring it to your child’s requirements, and providing incessant encouragement, you can enable your child to achieve their maximum communicative abilities. Every little bit you communicate is just an enormous huge step toward independence and self-expression Remember that!

You can also explore our FAQ section to learn more about non-verbal communication.

 FAQs

1.     My child doesn't speak at all. Can an app for speech therapy be helpful?

Of course! Using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) apps, many autistic nonverbal youngsters can communicate effectively. These applications assist your child in communicating wants, feelings, and ideas by substituting spoken words with visuals, symbols, and text-to-speech features. With regular app use and therapeutic assistance, some kids eventually even acquire spoken speaking!

Disclaimer: While speech therapy apps can help people communicate, they shouldn't take the place of specialized intervention plans or professional speech therapy.

2.     Which app is ideal for my child's speech therapy?

Your child's communication style, requirements, and preferences will determine which app is ideal for them. Apps like Proloquo2Go or Avaz AAC are great if your youngster communicates best through pictures. They might be a perfect fit for Speech Blubs if they like interactive learning. When choosing, take into account therapist recommendations, ease of use, and customizability.

Disclaimer: Every child is different, and different apps have different levels of efficacy. You can choose the best course of action by speaking with a speech-language pathologist (SLP).

3.     Do speech therapy apps replace in-person speech therapy?

Not at all! Speech therapy apps are effective instruments to complement conventional speech therapy but not substitute them. A lot of therapists are currently using these apps in therapy, and they also propose these apps for home practice. When technology is combined with professional supervision and parental support, the best results are achieved.

Disclaimer: Digital tools facilitate therapy but cannot substitute for the knowledge and skills of licensed speech therapists. Always follow professional advice.

4.     By using a speech app, will my child stop speaking?

No, speech development is not inhibited by the use of an AAC app, rather, it can be promoted! Evidence indicates that children relying on AAC devices are at risk of developing spoken language over time due to this confidence in the communication process. The app is a stepping stone, not a substitute.

Disclaimer: While AAC apps support language development, speech outcomes vary. Regular monitoring and professional input are recommended.

5.     Are these apps easy for my young children to use?

Yes! The majority of speech therapy apps have child-appropriate interfaces and visual supports with a navigation that is easy for the user to find. Several applications let you adapt the layout, and they thus become more usable by younger children or people affected by motor disabilities.

Disclaimer: There may be the need for an initial steer to allow the app to be used successfully by some children. Parental involvement is key to a successful experience.

6.     How can I encourage my child to use a speech therapy app regularly?

Consistency is key! Make the app part of daily routines such as mealtime, playtime, and social interactions. Acknowledge the importance of your child’s efforts, work through the app partnership, and note down every positive outcome. The more enjoyable and interesting an experience is, the more likely your child is to use it.

Disclaimer: Development is not instantaneous, and each child learns differently. Patience and positive reinforcement are essential.

 

References

1.     American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (n.d.). American Speech-Language-Hearing Association | ASHA. https://www.asha.org/

2.     Autism speaks. (n.d.). Autism Speaks. https://www.autismspeaks.org/

3.     Proloquo2Go - AAC app with symbols - AssistiveWare. (n.d.). https://www.assistiveware.com/products/proloquo2go

4.     Avaz Inc. (2024, December 4). Home - Avaz Inc. https://www.avazapp.com/

5.     American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (n.d.). American Speech-Language-Hearing Association | ASHA. https://www.asha.org/

6.     CoughDrop - Every voice should be heard. (2025, February 10). https://www.mycoughdrop.com/

7.     Zhang, M., Ding, H., Naumceska, M., & Zhang, Y. (2022). Virtual Reality Technology as an Educational and Intervention Tool for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Current Perspectives and Future Directions. In Scott D. Lane (Ed.), Behav. Sci. (Vol. 12, p. 138). https://doi.org/10.3390/bs12050138

8.     Free Photo | Adorable little boy doing an online session of speech therapy. (2021, September 23). Freepik. https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/adorable-little-boy-doing-online-session-speech-therapy_18682868.htm