Every Voice Matters: Supporting Communication in Children with Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Celebrating National Speech, Language and Hearing Month at The Ackerman Center
May is National Speech, Language and Hearing Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of communication and the vital role speech-language pathologists (SLPs) play in helping people find their voice. At The Ackerman Center, this month is especially meaningful because communication challenges are central to many of the conditions we support—especially Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), and other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Communication Is More Than Words
Communication is not just about speaking. It includes gestures, facial expressions, body language, signs, and devices. Many children with neurodevelopmental conditions experience delays or differences in how they communicate—but that doesn’t mean they have nothing to say.
In fact, up to 40% of children with autism are minimally verbal. Some may develop speech later, while others may communicate best through tools like Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)—such as picture boards or speech-generating devices. Our SLPs are trained to meet children where they are and provide the tools they need to connect with the world around them.
Early Intervention Makes a Difference
Early identification and support can significantly improve outcomes. Whether a child is delayed in babbling, not combining words, or not responding to their name, these early signs may point to a speech, language, or developmental concern.
The Ackerman Center offers comprehensive diagnostic services to identify the root of communication delays and build individualized treatment plans. With the right support, many children make remarkable progress—gaining not just words, but confidence, connection, and joy.
Hearing Health: The Overlooked Connection
One of the most important—and often overlooked—factors in speech and language development is hearing. Even a mild hearing loss can impact a child’s ability to pick up sounds and learn to speak. Children with neurodevelopmental conditions are at a higher risk for hearing challenges, and regular hearing screenings are critical to ensuring their communication support is effective.
If a child isn't responding to speech, it could be a hearing issue, a processing challenge, or a developmental delay—and sometimes all three. That’s why our team works closely with audiologists and other specialists to provide truly holistic care.
Empowering Families, Embracing Neurodiversity
We believe that all communication is meaningful—and that no one form of communication is superior to another. Whether a child speaks with their voice, a device, gestures, or pictures, our goal is the same: connection.
This month, we celebrate not only our incredible speech-language pathologists, but also the parents, caregivers, and children who work every day to be heard and understood. We’re proud to walk alongside them on their journeys.
How You Can Support Communication This Month:
Schedule a speech and hearing screening if you have concerns about your child’s development.
Learn about AAC and how it supports—not replaces—verbal communication.
Read with your child daily, even if they are non-speaking. Language exposure builds connection.
Follow us on social media for tips, stories, and ways to support speech and language development in neurodivergent children.
At the Ackerman Center, we know that every child deserves to be heard—in whatever way they communicate. This National Speech and Language Month, join us in celebrating all the ways our kids connect, express, and thrive.
