Summer can be a source of joy, or anxiety. For nonverbal autistic children, what many see as “fun in the sun” can feel overwhelming: loud crowds, unpredictable routines, and communication barriers that leave them sidelined.
You might wonder, how do I help my child enjoy summer without pushing them into distress? The answer lies in preparation, sensory awareness, and communication that meets your child where they are.
Being nonverbal is not unusual. According to the UK Parliamentary Office of Science and Technology (POST), up to 30% of autistic people are non-speaking, whether completely, temporarily, or in specific situations. Yet structured support for non-speaking communication remains inconsistent in many mainstream activities.
Let’s begin with understanding how nonverbal children express themselves, and how that shapes summer participation.
Understanding Nonverbal Communication and Summer Participation
A child who is nonverbal still communicates meaningfully, understanding their methods helps shape activities that feel safe and supportive.
What “Nonverbal” Means and Why It’s Nuanced
Nonverbal doesn’t mean silent or disconnected. Many nonverbal autistic children communicate through body language, sounds, or alternative tools. Some are minimally verbal or speak only in familiar settings. It’s not a lack of communication; it’s a different form of it.
Common Communication Methods
From gestures and facial expressions to AAC tools (like picture boards or speech apps) and autism visual schedules, communication takes many shapes. Recognising and responding to these builds connection and reduces frustration.
Barriers Nonverbal Children Face in Typical Summer Activities
Without inclusive planning, summer activities autism families try to join can feel chaotic, loud spaces, unclear expectations, and staff unfamiliar with supporting nonverbal children can all lead to stress. By understanding how each child communicates, we can remove these barriers and open the door to joy.
Preparing Nonverbal Children for Summer Activities
Preparation helps reduce anxiety and fosters a sense of control, especially during transitions or unfamiliar events.
Using Visual Schedules or Social Stories
Autism visual schedules and social stories help nonverbal autistic children understand what’s coming next. Use clear images or symbols to show the steps of the day, from leaving the house to snack breaks and home time. Consistency builds confidence.
Pre-Visit Walkthroughs or Picture Books of Venues
If possible, visit a location before the actual day out. Take photos or look up venue images online to build a mini “book” about the place. This helps reduce fear of the unknown and encourages familiarity.
Communicating Expectations with Symbols or Roleplay
Roleplay with toys or drawings can show what to expect at the beach, a park, or a family picnic. Combine this with nonverbal communication autism tools, like symbol cards or gesture-based cues, to set boundaries gently but clearly.
Packing a Comfort Kit
A small bag with AAC tools, fidget items, favourite snacks, and noise-reducing headphones can make a huge difference. Having familiar supports on hand can help your child regulate and re-engage if they feel overwhelmed.
If your child finds change difficult, you might also find this guide to supporting autistic children through summer transitions helpful. It’s grounded in professional insight and lived experience, with practical tools for easing anxiety and creating calm around new routines.
Encouraging Connection and Inclusion During Play
Connection doesn’t always require speech; being present, responsive, and accepting different ways of playing builds trust and joy.
Responding to Nonverbal Communication Cues
Many nonverbal autistic children express connection in subtle, powerful ways: a glance, a hand on yours, standing nearby. These are not random, they’re social cues. When adults slow down and respond; by mirroring, offering a toy, or simply acknowledging with a smile, they affirm, I see you.
Supporting Parallel or Shared Play
Parallel play, where children play side-by-side without interacting, is valid and often preferred. For nonverbal children, this style can feel safe. It reduces pressure while allowing social proximity. Over time, shared play may develop, but it shouldn’t be forced. Being near others, in a way that respects boundaries, can still foster belonging.
Siblings and Peer Education About Non-Speaking Communication
Children are naturally curious. If given the language to understand AAC, gestures, or silence, most are quick to include. A brief explanation like, “She uses pictures to talk,” or, “He might not speak, but he’s listening,” equips siblings and peers to connect with empathy rather than confusion.
Using AAC Devices or Communication Cards During Group Activities
AAC tools can help your child join in, choosing a turn in a game, requesting a break, or just saying “no.” According to Communication Matters, AAC isn’t a last resort; it’s a vital, inclusive way of supporting autonomy and voice.
Making summer activities autism-friendly includes embracing all forms of communication. When visuals and devices are not just allowed but welcomed, every child has a way to participate.
Supporting Parents and Carers
While the focus is often on the child, supporting carers with validation, resources, and community matters too.
Planning Around Energy Levels and Avoiding Burnout
Even joyful days can be exhausting. For carers of nonverbal autistic children, the mental load, communication prep, emotional regulation, and sensory planning can add up fast. Keep plans simple and spaced out. Choose one activity a day, build in recovery time, and don’t feel guilty about quiet days at home.
Connecting with Other Families or Local SEN Groups
You are not alone. Local support networks, online forums, or SEND-specific meetups can offer real comfort, especially when communication support needs feel isolating. Hearing “yes, we go through that too” from another parent can lift the weight. These groups often share autism-friendly summer ideas or events others have tried.
If you’re managing needs across different neurotypes, ADHD Certify’ s summer travel guide for families with ADHD offers well-tested strategies for planning, packing, and managing sensory needs, especially useful for households supporting both autistic and ADHD children.
Knowing It’s Okay to Say No to Overwhelming Events
Not every opportunity needs a yes. If an event sounds chaotic or exhausting, it’s okay to skip it. Protecting your child’s peace, “and your own”, isn’t avoidance.
It’s smart, sensitive parenting. You don’t need to explain that to anyone.
Final Thoughts
Words aren’t the only way children connect. With the right support, nonverbal autistic children can experience a summer that feels safe, expressive, and full of joy. Whether through gestures, AAC, or play without pressure, communication is always possible, and always worth recognising.
There’s no single formula.
What matters is flexibility, compassion, and following your child’s pace. Some days might mean a quiet garden activity; others, a supported museum trip.
All of it counts.
If you’re seeking clarity around your child’s support needs or wondering whether an autism assessment is the next step, our team offers an Initial Screening Consultation, Child Assessment, and Adult Assessment services grounded in both clinical insight and neuro-affirming values.
You’re not alone, and there’s support available for every part of the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some examples of nonverbal communication in autistic children?
Nonverbal autistic children communicate in many meaningful ways, even without speech. Common examples include:
– Gestures (like pointing or reaching)
– Facial expressions (such as smiling, frowning, or eye-avoidance)
– Body positioning (moving closer or turning away)
– Vocalisations (like humming, squealing, or breathing patterns)
– Use of AAC tools, such as symbol cards, tablets, or speech apps
– Routine-based cues, like going to the door or bringing a toy
Understanding these cues helps adults respond with respect and clarity, making connection possible without words.
Can nonverbal children benefit from group summer activities?
Yes, when adapted thoughtfully, group summer activities can be enriching for nonverbal children. Key factors for success include:
– Flexible participation, like parallel play instead of direct interaction
– Visual supports and AAC devices to help with turn-taking and requests
– Calm, sensory-considerate environments
– Staff and peers who understand non-speaking communication
Even quiet presence in a group can help build confidence, connection, and belonging, all on the child’s own terms.
How do I know if my nonverbal child might be autistic?
Non-speaking doesn’t always mean autism, but if your child also shows sensory differences or social communication challenges, a child assessment with professionals may help clarify next steps.
What’s the first step if I suspect my child needs support?
You can start with an Initial Screening Consultation, where a clinician talks through your concerns and helps decide whether a full evaluation is right for your child.
Is it possible for a nonverbal child to become verbal later?
Yes, some children develop speech over time, especially with the right supports in place. But even if speech doesn’t come, communication always can, with AAC and other tools.