Helping your child to communicate through gestures

This article is based on the first video in Communiverse’s 4‑part series on gestural communication. It focuses on one of the earliest and most important forms of communication for children with autism — gestures. It explores why gestures matter, when to introduce them, and how parents and therapists can work together to build these skills. 

Gestures are one of the earliest ways children connect with the world. They lay the foundation for speech, social interaction, and meaningful relationships. For many children who cannot yet speak, gestures become their first language. However, for children with autism, even simple gestures may not come naturally. Pointing, waving, or signaling “more” can be difficult, and often require structured teaching and support.

Developing gestural communication in children with autism

Why gestures are important

Gestures are a child’s first bridge to communication. In typically developing children, they emerge between 9–16 months — waving goodbye, pointing at objects, pushing away food, or reaching out for something they want.

For children with autism, these gestures may not develop spontaneously. Teaching them step by step is crucial because gestures:

• Help children express wants and needs
• Encourage back‑and‑forth interactions
• Build the foundation for spoken language

When to start teaching gestures

Early intervention is key. If a child is not using gestures by 9–16 months, structured support should begin. Modeling gestures during play and everyday routines can start from day one.

Choosing functional gestures

Start with simple, everyday gestures that are easy to use:

• Give – handing an object
• More – during play or mealtimes
• Finish – to signal they are done
• Pointing – to request food or objects
• No – to indicate negation

How to teach gestures?

Helping children with autism develop gestural communication requires patience, consistency, and a clear plan. Gestures are more than movements — they are the first words of a meaningful conversation.

1. Model the gestures

Begin by modeling simple gestures during natural activities like playtime. For example, while playing peek‑a‑boo, you can model the gesture for “more” to indicate continuing the game. Everyday routines provide the best opportunities to demonstrate gestures in context.

2. Build foundational skills

If a child struggles to imitate or repeat actions, it may be wise to consult an occupational therapist. Therapists can help identify challenges, create a tailored plan, and guide parents in building the skills needed for gestures.

3. Use prompts when needed

• Physical prompts: Gently guide the child’s hands to make the gesture. Visual prompts: Show a video or picture of the gesture.
• Verbal prompts: Encourage with simple phrases like “Can you show me more?” or “Give me.”

Gradually reduce prompts over time, so the child can use gestures independently.

4. Create a supportive environment

Always practice in a stress‑free, happy, and quiet setting. A calm environment helps children feel safe, making it easier to learn and engage.

With patience, modeling, and consistent support, gestures become the child’s first words — opening the door to connection and communication.

Every small step in teaching gestures builds confidence, laying the foundation for language, interaction, and a brighter future.

This video and guidance were created by Communiverse, led by Deepa Bhat Nair, an organisation dedicated to providing innovative, family-focused solutions for neurodivergent children and their caregivers. Communiverse offers both online and in-person support, providing highly nuanced interventions for very young children — with remarkable outcomes. The team is also pioneering path-breaking programs for middle schoolers and young adults with social cognition challenges, helping them navigate school, college, and daily interactions with greater confidence.

If you have questions about Autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, or other intellectual disabilities, or have concerns about developmental delays in a child, the Nayi Disha team is here to help. For any questions or queries, please contact our FREE Helpline at 844-844-8996. You can call or what’s app us. Our counselors speak different languages including English, Hindi, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Telugu, and Bengali.