4 Ways To Improve Communication With Your Neurodivergent Child

Having a strong foundation of communication within your family can make a big difference in everything, from your children’s confidence to their social skills. But, when you have a neurodivergent child, communication can come with a unique set of challenges.

It’s important to keep in mind that neurodivergent doesn’t mean that your child can’t learn or communicate effectively. It simply means that their brain works differently. Finding ways to work with them will make a big difference in their communication efforts and can bring you closer. 

It can take time to improve communication with your neurodivergent child, but by implementing a few healthy strategies, it’s absolutely possible. Let’s take a look at four things you can start doing right away to foster better communication.

1. Be Patient

Perhaps the best thing you can do to improve communication with your neurodivergent child is to be patient with how they already communicate. While you should encourage them to open up and express themselves, don’t force them to do more than they’re ready for. If they don’t want to participate in a conversation, try not to push too hard.

Additionally, be compassionate when it comes to their feelings. The more compassion and empathy you show, the easier it will be to understand how your child processes things. It can take them more time than it might take you to fully understand and to think of how they want to respond. A combination of patience and compassion will let them know you are safe to talk to, and they’ll be more likely to open up. 

2. Be Clear And Concise

Your child might not communicate the way you’re used to. They might not pick up on subtle cues or sarcasm, for example. So, it’s very important to be as clear and simple as possible when communicating with them.

Don’t mince words or assume they’ll know what you’re talking about if you’re vague. Don’t exaggerate or use rhetorical questions; expand on what you’re saying through body language. 

3. Slow Down

We live in a fast-paced world, and you might be used to speaking quickly to most people. Try to avoid fast talk when you’re talking to your neurodivergent child. Remember that because they process information differently, it can take more time.

If you speak quickly, they can easily become overwhelmed by the amount of information they receive at once, leading to confusion, distress, and discomfort.

Speak slower when you’re talking to a neurodivergent child so they have the opportunity to comprehend and process what you’re saying. They will appreciate it, and it will give you the chance to think about what you want to say before you actually say it.

4. Find Different Ways Of Communicating

Just because your neurodivergent child doesn’t communicate the way others do doesn’t mean they don’t have things on their mind that they want to share. 

Observe your child as often as possible and learn from them. Maybe they’re exceptionally gifted at art or music. Or, maybe they seem to come alive while playing with certain toys. Choose to get on their level to find different, unique ways of communicating with them that help them feel validated. Maybe that includes using more gestures or even drawing pictures. Encouraging different forms of communication can make it easier for your child to feel comfortable opening up.

Again, improving communication with your neurodivergent child can feel like a challenge. But with a bit of patience and a willingness to think outside the box, you can enjoy a healthier, happier connection while learning more about how your child thinks.

If you’re still struggling or looking for more strategies, feel free to contact me for information or to set up an appointment for child therapy.