Understanding Regressive Autism: Causes, Assessment, and 3 Steps To Get Lost Skills Back!

What To Do For Children with Regressive Autism

Once a child has a regression, or is diagnosed with regressive autism, we need to start taking steps to help them. Follow these steps and scroll down to see the 3 ways to get words back after regression.

Step 1: Conduct a Thorough Assessment

The first step in addressing regressive autism is assessment. You don’t necessarily need to wait for a doctor or specialist—parents and caregivers can start by gathering key information about their child’s development.

Types of Assessments to Conduct:

• Medical assessment: Rule out any underlying medical conditions.

• Check for other signs of autism with the MCHAT

• Language and communication assessment: Identify words or skills that have been lost.

• Self-care and independence assessment: Assess daily living skills such as dressing, toileting, and feeding.

• Behavioral assessment: Identify any new or worsening problem behaviors.

You can get language, behavioral and self-care scores using the Barbera Early Childhood Assessment, a quick 10 minute digital assessment to give you a starting place! Take it free here

Step 2: Revise the Plan and Set Realistic Goals

If a child is stuck or regressing, their intervention plan needs to be adjusted. Sticking with the same programs, goals, or teaching methods without progress can lead to frustration for both the child and the caregivers.

Key Strategies for Updating Goals:

• Identify the child’s current skill level: Ensure that goals are appropriate for where they are now, not where they were months ago. Look at your most recent Barbera Early Childhood Assessment Scores and make a one page plan. 

• Focus on functional communication: If speech is regressing, work on ways to help the child communicate through gestures, signs, or alternative communication systems. If you haven’t heard of my one word times 3 strategy, you can learn more here

• Use motivating activities and reinforcement: Engage the child with activities that encourage communication and learning.

• Ensure prerequisite skills are in place: If a program isn’t working, the child may need to master foundational skills first. 

Step 3: Encouraging Communication Through Fun Activities

For children experiencing regressive autism, rebuilding language skills takes patience and strategy. Here are three key steps to encourage verbal communication:

1. Record and Track Words

Write down any words, word approximations, or sounds your child makes throughout the day. Setting a timer for an hour and documenting all vocal attempts can help track progress over time.

2. Use Real Objects and Pictures

Gather 3D items and real-life pictures that relate to words your child previously used or might find motivating. Examples include:

• Objects: Ball, book, cup

• Pictures of family members or familiar places

• Flashcards with common words (cut off any distracting text or labels)

3. Interactive and Cause-and-Effect Play

Use simple, engaging activities to encourage speech:

• Shoe Box Game: Place a slit in a shoebox and have the child drop items in while labeling them (e.g., “Ball, ball, ball”).

• Bubble Play: Model single words like “bubbles” and “pop” while engaging in play.

• Matching Games: Have the child match real objects to pictures while repeating words.

Step 4: Prioritizing Safety, Independence, and Happiness

Beyond skill-building, it’s essential to ensure that children experiencing regressive autism feel safe, happy, and independent. Behavioral interventions should be supportive rather than stressful. If a child is struggling, caregivers should:

• Reduce pressure and frustration

• Ensure the child’s basic needs are met

• Provide a predictable routine

• Celebrate small successes

• Learn how to support the child with child-friendly techniques.

Step 5: Seek Support and Professional Guidance

While many steps can be taken at home with my online courses, working with a professional can provide additional guidance. Specialists such as behavior analysts, speech therapists, and developmental pediatricians can help tailor an intervention plan.

Types of Therapies for Regressive Autism

There are several therapies that can help children experiencing regressive autism regain lost skills and improve their quality of life. Some of the most effective therapies include:

• Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): A structured, evidence-based approach that focuses on reinforcing positive behaviors and reducing problematic ones.

• Speech Therapy: Helps children regain lost language skills and develop communication strategies.

• Occupational Therapy (OT): Supports the development of fine motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living skills.

• Play Therapy: Encourages social interaction and communication through structured play activities.

• Music Therapy: Uses music-based interventions to enhance communication, motor, and cognitive skills.

If you are feeling stuck or want more support for your child or client with regressive autism, look no furthur than my online course and community. You can sign up for a free workshop now!