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

Dr. Mary Barbera

  • Regressive autism is when a child loses previously acquired skills, especially in speech and social interactions.

  • Early signs of regressive autism include loss of language, social withdrawal, and repetitive behaviors.

  • There are 3 key steps to get words back after regression: tracking words, using real objects and pictures, and interactive play.

  • Assessment, intervention, and professional support are crucial steps in addressing regressive autism.

What is Regressive Autism?

Regressive autism is recognized in the DSM-5 as a subset of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) where a child experiences a significant loss of previously acquired skills, particularly in language and social interaction. You can read more about this definition in the DSM-5 here. Regressive autism is a deeply concerning and heartbreaking experience for many parents. It occurs when a child, who previously had words and skills, suddenly loses them or begins to struggle in areas where they once excelled. Whether it’s a young child who stops waving or speaking, or an older child who suddenly regresses in social or self-care skills, the experience can be confusing and alarming.

regressive autism. lost skills and autism.
Losing skills and regressive autism can be heartbreaking.

Signs of Regressive Autism

 

Some common signs of regressive autism include:

  • Loss of spoken words or language skills

  • Decreased social engagement (e.g., no longer waving, making eye contact, or responding to their name)

  • Increased difficulty with previously learned motor skills

  • Regression in self-care tasks, such as dressing or toileting

  • Increased repetitive behaviors or sensory sensitivities

  • Sudden onset of problem behaviors, such as aggression or self-injury

  • Lack of pointing or gesturing to indicate needs

  • Increased difficulty in responding to their name or maintaining attention

  • Sudden excessive tantrums or meltdowns

Causes of Regressive Autism

Regressing of any skills when young, or older is heartbreaking. A lot of times it could be a medical issue that’s causing the regression. It could be an abrupt regression like overnight your child starts seizing or overnight he starts not talking. According to the research, 20 to 30% of parents report that their child did shows signs of regressive autism, that they were developing on track or mostly on track, and then either had a sudden or slow regression. I noticed a regression mostly in hindsight with Lucas shortly after his first birthday. I was pregnant with Spencer, so I wasn’t really noticing, but he regressed. He stopped saying hi, he stopped waving. He used to really have a nice wave and you think like, oh, he’s just becoming a picky eater or he has a cold or he has an ear infection and he’s just a little off.

While the exact causes of regressive autism are not fully understood, research and clinical experience suggest multiple potential factors:

1. Medical Issues

Many cases of regression are linked to underlying medical problems. Some conditions that can contribute to or mimic regression include:

  • Seizures

  • High lead levels

  • Hearing loss

  • Autoimmune disorders

  • Metabolic conditions

  • Bacterial infections such as PANS or PANDAS

If your child experiences sudden or gradual regression, a thorough medical evaluation is crucial. Make sure to contact your doctor right away. 

For me, I was pregnant with Spencer and didn’t notice the signs right away. Remember, older kids can also have regressive autism, and have regressions so keep an eye out even if your child or client is past toddlerhood. 

2. Developmental Variability

Not all regressions are due to a medical cause. Some children experience slow progress and temporary loss of skills due to changes in their environment, stress, or other developmental factors.

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.

regressive autism. Autism spectrum and regression.
Losing skills and regressive autism aren’t necessarily forever. Follow these steps to help!

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:

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! 

Want to Learn how to Increase Talking & Decrease Tantrums in Children with Autism or Toddlers Showing Signs?

Want to start making a difference for your child or clients?

3 Ways to Get Words Back After Regression

Regaining lost words after regressive autism can take time, but the following strategies can help encourage verbal communication:

1. Imitation and Echoing

Encourage your child to mimic sounds and simple words. Use exaggerated facial expressions and fun sounds to make imitation more engaging.

2. High-Motivation Words and Reinforcement

Start with words that are highly motivating to your child, such as the names of favorite toys, foods, or activities. Reward attempts at speech with immediate positive reinforcement.

3. Consistent Daily Practice

Make communication practice part of daily routines. Narrate actions, use short, clear phrases, and repeat words multiple times throughout the day.

Even if a child has lost skills, there is always hope for improvement. With the right assessment, adjustments to interventions, and patience, many children experiencing regressive autism regain lost words and skills over time.

For more expert guidance,  attend a free online workshop at marybarbera.com/workshop.

Wherever you’re watching/reading this, I’d love it if you would leave me a comment, give me a thumbs up, share this video with others who may benefit or are worried about regressive autism. 

Want to Learn how to Increase Talking & Decrease Tantrums in Children with Autism or Toddlers Showing Signs?

Want to start making a difference for your child or clients?

Top 5 FAQ on Regressive Autism

Regressive autism is a subset of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) where a child experiences a significant loss of previously acquired skills, such as speech and social interactions, typically between 15 and 30 months of age.

Some key early signs include loss of spoken words, decreased social engagement (such as reduced eye contact or waving), increased repetitive behaviors, and sudden challenges with self-care tasks like dressing or toileting.o.

The exact causes are not fully understood, but potential factors include underlying medical conditions (seizures, autoimmune disorders, infections), environmental stressors, and developmental variability.

Yes, with proper intervention, children can regain some lost skills. Key strategies include assessment, structured therapy (such as ABA and speech therapy), and engaging in interactive play that encourages communication.

Speech regression does not always indicate autism. While it can be a key symptom of regressive autism, other medical or environmental factors can contribute to speech loss. Conditions such as hearing loss, neurological disorders, trauma, and even high stress levels can temporarily impact a child’s ability to communicate. If a child shows signs of speech regression, it is crucial to conduct a thorough medical and developmental evaluation to determine the underlying cause and implement appropriate interventions.

Ready to Start Turning Autism (or Signs of Autism) Around?
Ready to Start Turning Autism
(or Signs of Autism) Around?

Get started with Dr. Mary Barbera’s proven strategies and take the next step toward real progress today.