Published by Breakthrough ABA 

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Communication is how children connect, express needs, and build relationships. Whether it’s a toddler requesting juice or saying “I love you” for the first time, these moments are milestones. But for many children with autism, developing those language and communication skills doesn’t always come easily. 

That’s where Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy can make a significant-changing difference. At Breakthrough ABA, we specialize in helping children, effective communication —spoken or otherwise. 

🧠 Understanding Communication Challenges in Autism 

Children with autism may face a wide range of communication delays. Some are nonverbal, while others may use words but struggle with social interaction. 

Common challenges include: 

• Delayed or absent speech 

• Limited use of gestures (e.g., pointing, waving) 

• Echolalia (repeating phrases without intent) 

• Difficulty with back-and-forth conversations 

• Limited eye contact or facial expressions 

Families searching for autism therapy or ABA therapy often come to us concerned about these very signs. The good news? ABA offers structured, research-backed strategies to support progress—at every stage of language development. 

💬 How ABA Therapy Builds Communication Skills 

ABA therapy is highly individualized. Whether your child is just beginning to vocalize or working on holding conversations, we meet them where they are—and build from there 

🔑 1. Teaching Functional Communication 

One core strategy is Functional Communication Training (FCT), which helps children learn meaningful, effective ways to express themselves. 

For example: 

• A child who screams for a toy might learn to sign “play” or use a picture card. 

• A child who grabs your hand toward the fridge might be taught to say or gesture “snack.” 

Even if your child isn’t speaking, we can use sign language, PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), or speech-generating devices. This is especially valuable for families seeking in-home ABA therapy. 

🎯 2. Creating Motivation to Communicate 

ABA therapists make communication motivating and rewarding. We teach children that asking appropriately leads to getting what they want—whether it’s attention, toys, or a favorite activity. 

Example: 
If your child loves bubbles, we’ll prompt them to request it (verbally or nonverbally). When they do, they get bubbles! Over time, they realize that communication is powerful. 

🤝 3. Building Social Communication Skills 

ABA doesn’t just teach language—it supports social communication, including: 

• Eye contact and joint attention 

• Initiating conversations 

• Understanding facial expressions and tone 

• Asking and answering questions 

• Turn-taking during play or dialogue 

These are often taught through naturalistic teaching, role-play, and structured interaction, both in center-based ABA and in-home ABA services families trust. 

📈 4. Tracking Progress with Data 

At Breakthrough ABA, every communication goal is data-driven. Our team: 

• Tracks your child’s language milestones 

• Adjusts strategies based on progress 

• Collaborates with caregivers to maximize growth 

Whenever you’re receiving ABA therapy from Breakthrough ABA, our consistent data review ensures your child is making meaningful strides. 

Communication Doesn’t Always Start with Words 

We often hear from parents concerned that their child isn’t speaking yet. But it’s important to understand: communication isn’t limited to spoken language. 

Through ABA, we help your child: 

• Express wants and needs—however they can 

• Use gestures, visuals, or assistive devices 

• Build foundational skills that often lead to verbal speech 

And this progress doesn’t stay in the therapy center. We coach parents on how to foster communication at home and during daily routines like meals, transitions, and playtime. 

We’ll help you: 

• Reinforce communication attempts 

• Use prompting and positive reinforcement 

• Respond consistently to all efforts 

With your involvement, your child will get more practice—and more success. 

💛 Final Thoughts: Giving Your Child a Voice 

Whether through words, signs, pictures, or devices, our goal is simple: 
Help your child find their voice. 

When children learn to communicate, their world opens up: 

• They reduce frustration 

• Build friendships 

• Gain independence 

• Share their thoughts and personality 

At Breakthrough ABA, we’re honored to help families throughout the Greater Houston area, including: 

• Cypress 

• Katy 

• Spring 

• The Woodlands 

• Sugar Land 

• Missouri City 

• Memorial 

• Energy Corridor 

• Montgomery 

• Conroe 

Whether you’re just starting your search for ABA therapy  or already part of our community, know this: we’re here to support your child’s journey toward confident communication—every step of the way.