Many parents begin to wonder about their child’s communication development during the toddler years. Questions like “Should my child be talking by now?” or “Is it normal that they don’t use words yet?” are common—and valid. Understanding what it means to be nonverbal or minimally verbal can help families know what to look for, when to seek support, and how to best support their child’s communication. 

At The Buddy Center, we believe that communication takes many forms. Being nonverbal or minimally verbal does not reflect a child’s intelligence, understanding, or potential—it simply describes how they currently communicate. 

What Does It Mean to Be Nonverbal or Minimally Verbal? 

Completely nonverbal typically refers to children who do not use spoken words to communicate. These children may still communicate effectively through gestures, pointing, facial expressions, body language, vocalizations, or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. A child who is completely nonverbal often understands far more than they are able to express verbally. 

Minimally verbal describes children who use a small number of spoken words or short phrases inconsistently. Speech may appear in specific situations—such as during familiar routines or preferred activities—but is not yet functional or reliable across environments. These children often rely on gestures, visuals, or AAC to supplement speech. 

Both terms describe a child’s current communication profile, not a fixed outcome. Communication skills can and do change over time, especially with early, individualized support. 

My Child Talks, but Speech Is Slurred or Mumbled 

Some children may use spoken words, but their speech is difficult to understand. This can include slurring, mumbling, or pronouncing words inconsistently. Speech that doesn’t make sense can be caused by a variety of factors, including: 

• Oral motor difficulties: Challenges with coordinating the lips, tongue, and jaw to produce clear sounds 

• Apraxia of speech: Difficulty planning and producing the movements required for speech, despite understanding language 

• Developmental differences in speech and language processing: Including delays in articulating sounds or forming words 

Even if a child’s speech is unclear, it is important to treat all communication attempts as meaningful. Early evaluation by a speech-language pathologist, along with ABA or other therapies, can help identify strategies to support clearer speech, alternative communication, and reduced frustration. 

At What Age Do These Concerns Typically Arise? 

Every child develops at their own pace, but there are general communication milestones that can help guide parents: 

• By 12 months, most children use gestures (pointing, waving) and may say a few words 

• By 18 months, many children attempt several spoken words and show clear intent to communicate 

• By 24 months, children often use words consistently and may begin combining words into simple phrases 

If a child has few or no spoken words by age two, or if speech remains very limited and inconsistent beyond this age, clinicians may describe the child as nonverbal or minimally verbal at that time. These labels help guide support strategies—they do not predict a child’s long-term abilities. 

Signs Parents May Notice 

Parents are often the first to recognize differences in communication. Some signs that may indicate a child is nonverbal or minimally verbal include: 

• Limited or no use of spoken words 

• Reliance on pulling adults, leading by hand, or crying to communicate 

• Inconsistent use of words that appear and disappear over time 

• Difficulty imitating sounds or words 

• Frustration or challenging behaviors related to communication difficulties 

• Strong understanding of language but limited ability to express wants or needs verbally 

It is important to remember that many nonverbal or minimally verbal children do communicate—just not always through speech. 

Practical Tips for Supporting Communication at Home 

Parents can take meaningful steps at home to support speech, clarity, and overall communication: 

• Respond to all communication attempts: Treat gestures, vocalizations, or slurred words as intentional messages 

• Model clear speech and slow, simple language: Repeat words clearly and pair them with gestures or visuals 

• Use visuals and AAC consistently: Picture cards, boards, or devices can supplement or replace unclear speech 

• Provide choices and opportunities: Encourage children to express preferences during daily routines and play 

• Practice oral motor exercises: Simple activities like blowing bubbles or making funny faces can help strengthen mouth muscles (with guidance from a speech-language pathologist) 

• Keep communication low-pressure and fun: Avoid forcing speech; instead, create enjoyable moments where communication is naturally motivating 

Consistency and patience are key—small, repeated interactions help children build confidence and skills over time. 

Why Early Support Matters 

Differences in speech development among autistic children are often related to how the brain processes sensory input, motor planning, and social information—not a lack of motivation or understanding. Early intervention can help identify the most effective ways for a child to communicate and reduce frustration during critical developmental periods. 

Introducing communication supports early—such as visuals, gestures, or AAC—does not prevent speech development. In fact, research shows these supports often enhance communication and language growth. 

How Communication Is Supported in ABA Therapy 

At The Buddy Center, our ABA therapy programs focus on functional, meaningful communication. Strategies may include: 

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC): Picture systems, communication boards, or speech-generating devices 

• Functional Communication Training (FCT): Teaching practical ways to express needs and reduce frustration 

• Natural Environment Teaching (NET): Creating communication opportunities through play, routines, and daily activities 

• Visual and Gestural Supports: Supporting understanding and expression without pressure to speak 

All approaches are individualized and adjusted as a child’s skills grow. 

What Progress Can Look Like 

Progress does not look the same for every child. For some, it may mean more consistent use of AAC or gestures. For others, spoken words may gradually emerge. All forms of functional communication are meaningful and valuable. 

At The Buddy Center, success is defined by increased independence, reduced frustration, and stronger connections—not by a single communication outcome. 

How The Buddy Center Can Help 

If you are wondering whether your child may be nonverbal, minimally verbal, or struggling with unclear speech, our team is here to help. Through individualized ABA therapy, we support children in developing communication systems that honor their strengths and empower them to connect with the world around them. We provide collaborative care that helps ensure all communication skills are maintained and generalized across each environment. Supporting learners and their families as part of their well-rounded care team.  Early questions can lead to early support—and meaningful progress.