Concurrent developmental language level change for children with autism spectrum disorder using alternative and augmentative communication systems: a cross-sectional study in Cyprus

We examined the concurrent change in developmental language phase (DLP) and linguistic status of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)/autism, identified as Nonverbal/Minimally-Verbal (NV/MV), utilizing Augmentative/Alternative Communication (AAC) systems. We compared the linguistic output of NV/MV autistic children concurrently, with and without use of AAC systems. Additionally, we compared the linguistic level, characteristics, and early developmental milestones for AAC users and non-users. A sample of 23 autistic children (3–12 years-of-age) identified as NV/MV based on the DLP results by the Developmental/Verbal Language Phase parent-report questionnaire, participated in this cross-sectional study in Cyprus. Two groups formed based on AAC systems use (AAC users, AAC non-users). Parents completed the questionnaire through convenience sampling, determining the children's overall DLP concurrently, with and without use of AAC systems. Only 52.0% of participants used aided AAC systems to support their communication. No significant differences were noted in demographic/other variables between the groups. When AAC systems use was included in measuring linguistic expression for AAC users, 75.0% of them displayed improved linguistic level (DLP), half of whom elevated to a verbal-linguistic status. AAC users in the DLP-2 First-Words phase/level were more likely to switch to DLP-3 Word-Combinations and thus to verbal status, than those in the DLP-1 Preverbal phase/level. AAC system use can be associated with improved communication level and status, especially for autistic children already verbalizing at the word-level. Most AAC users were at an advantage in their language skills through AAC systems use, compared to non-users.