Pragmatics refers to the social rules of communication—knowing what to say, how to say it, when to say it, and to whom. Social communication skills are essential for making friends, succeeding in school, and navigating daily life. Children with social communication difficulties may struggle with conversations, making friends, understanding unwritten social rules, and interpreting nonverbal cues.
Pragmatic language encompasses the social aspects of communication—the 'rules' that help us interact effectively with others. While grammar and vocabulary are important, pragmatics is about how we use language in real social situations.
Pragmatic skills develop throughout childhood and are learned through modeling and social interaction. Some children pick up social communication naturally, while others need explicit instruction to understand these often unspoken rules.
Many social rules are unspoken and assumed. Children with social communication difficulties often need these 'hidden rules' explicitly taught: personal space, when to use formal vs. casual language, how to read a room, and what facial expressions mean.
Social skills improve with practice, but the right kind of practice. Structured activities with clear expectations are often easier than unstructured free play. One-on-one playdates may be less overwhelming than group situations.
Preparing your child before social situations is more effective than correcting them after. Role-play, social stories, and discussing expectations ahead of time help children succeed.
TV shows, movies, and books provide safe opportunities to discuss social situations. Pause to discuss: 'How do you think she feels? Why did he do that? What might happen next?'
Children with autism spectrum disorder experience a wide range of communication differences, from minimal speech to extensive vocabulary with challenges in social use of language. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) provides powerful tools to support communication—and research consistently shows it supports, not hinders, speech development. One-third to one-half of minimally verbal children with ASD benefit significantly from AAC intervention.
Learn moreStuttering is a speech fluency disorder affecting about 5-10% of children at some point, with approximately 1% of adults experiencing lifelong stuttering. It's a neurological condition—not caused by anxiety or nervousness, though these can be effects of stuttering. With appropriate support, most children achieve fluent speech, and people of all ages can learn to communicate effectively and confidently.
Learn moreLanguage is the foundation for communication, learning, and social connection. It includes both understanding others (receptive language) and expressing yourself (expressive language). The first three years of life are the most critical period for language development when the brain is optimally wired to absorb language. Strong language skills are essential for reading, writing, academic success, and building relationships throughout life.
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Social Communication Disorder (SCD)
Social Communication Disorder is a diagnosis for individuals who have significant difficulties with verbal and nonverbal social communication that cannot be explained by low cognitive ability. SCD was recognized as a distinct diagnosis in 2013.
SCD differs from autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in that individuals with SCD do not have the restricted interests and repetitive behaviors seen in ASD. However, social communication difficulties ARE a feature of autism, and many children with autism also receive social communication intervention.