Non-Speaking Versus Non-Verbal: What is the Difference in Autism?
- Dr. Lisa Marnell, OTD, MBA
- Apr 24, 2023
- 2 min read
The terms non-speaking and non-verbal may sound identical to many people. But there is a different and important distinction which is vital for us to consider with autistic people.
The term "verbal" has been defined to describe when a person understands and uses words, any words, in any way. So, "verbal" includes using spoken words. But it also includes situations in which words are written or signed or typed or pointed to even.
The term "speaking" means using words we form with our mouths and utter out loud.
One important aspect of the definition of "verbal" is that it includes an understanding of both receptive words (ones we hear, read) and the production of words in any manner (ones we speak, sign, write, point to).
People are typically never completely non-verbal, as this would mean that they have no understanding of any words whatsoever, such as their name ("Tyson") or a word they commonly hear ("snack" or "shirt"). It would be almost impossible for kids, teens, or adults to have no receptive language whatsoever, even receptively.
So, when it comes to autism, let's be precise in how we use our words to describe their language skills. The reason that the term "non-verbal" is quite frowned upon and even considered unacceptable today is because autistic people who might be labelled "non-verbal" actually typically have receptive language.
The term "non-speaking" is a simple term which means a person does not form and utter mouth words. But they may communicate with words in a myriad of other ways.
As autistic children grow and develop, we should always step back and consider the development of communication to be far more important than the development of spoken words. Speaking may come in time - and it may not. But imagine the frustration with not being able to communicate needs, wants, emotions, and frustrations.
This is part of the reason that AAC - augmentative and alternative communication - is such an important first step for intervention with autistic children.
More from Dr. Lisa Marnell and Kids Master Skills . . .
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The article’s explanation of the difference between non-speaking and non-verbal was an interesting look at how important it is to understand the meaning behind communication. I found the point about recognising that people may communicate in different ways especially valuable because language is much broader than spoken words alone. It also made me think about how education and learning environments are designed for different needs, which connects with wider questions like Who Invented Homework? and Why. I wonder how many communication methods are still misunderstood simply because people are used to thinking about expression in a limited way. The discussion shows how understanding individual experiences can change the way we view learning, interaction, and inclusion.
This is such an important distinction that so many of us overlook! As a parent of a non-speaking child, I've spent years correcting well-meaning relatives who automatically assumed my son "doesn't understand anything" simply because he doesn't use spoken words. He communicates beautifully through AAC, and his receptive language is incredibly rich. It's a powerful reminder that communication is so much broader than speech. Just like we ask questions such as Is It Good to Take a Multivitamin Every Day — meaning we're always looking for what truly supports our children's overall wellbeing — we should also be asking what truly supports their communication and not just defaulting to outdated labels. The word "non-verbal" carries so much unnecessary weight and…
The distinction between “non-speaking” and “non-verbal” in autism is really important because it helps us understand communication more respectfully. “Non-speaking” simply means a person does not use spoken words with their mouth, but they may still communicate in many other meaningful ways such as gestures, writing, AAC devices, or typing, and they often still understand language. “Non-verbal,” on the other hand, is often used incorrectly and can imply a total absence of communication or understanding, which is misleading. As highlighted in discussions around autism support, language precision helps avoid assumptions and stigma. At ReVeda, we believe overall wellness matters too, because communication, learning, and development are all interconnected with lifestyle factors. For example, maintaining good digestive balance through How To…
Such an important distinction — thank you for breaking this down so clearly! So many parents and caregivers unknowingly use "non-verbal" when their child actually has rich receptive language, and this mislabeling can truly limit the support they receive. Every autistic child communicates — whether through typing, pointing, signing, or AAC — and recognizing that is the first step toward meaningful connection. At ReVeda, we also believe that holistic child development goes beyond communication therapy. Proper nutrition plays a huge role in brain development and focus, which is why the Benefits of Multivitamin Tablets are worth considering alongside therapies — nutrient gaps can quietly affect a child's energy and cognitive engagement. Multivitamin Tablets are thoughtfully formulated to support growing children's…
Such an informative post! The distinction between non-speaking and non-verbal in autism is so important for better understanding and support. It’s similar to the level of clarity and precision needed in the hardest degrees in the UK, where every detail matters to ensure accurate communication and care. Thanks for shedding light on this important topic!