Echolalia in Autism

At the beginning of typical development, babies begin to babble. This babbling is not language, but rather it is a precursor to communications. It prepares the Lower Brain to bring in language to the Upper Brain.

Many people with autism never went through this stage as a baby and sometimes may instead develop echolalia. Echolalia in autism is basically higher level babbling. Echolalia may be repeating certain sounds, words or phrases frequently or repeating the last word or words said by another. They are not generally communicating thoughts through Echolalia and it can act as a buffer from irritating voices and sounds in the environment.

Many neuro-typical people employ the technique of repeating what someone else has said when they want to be sure they understand something. Some people with higher level autism may repeat what was said in order to garner more time and focus for processing.

For example, when a teacher says, “Go and get the paper and pencil.” The student with autism may say, “Go and get the paper and pencil. OK, I go and get the pencil and paper.” People with autism are frequently unclear of what someone is requesting through verbal communications and may repeat all or some of what another has said.

As the child develops further in the area of communication, Echolalia in autism may decrease.

Have you come across cases of echolalia in your classroom? Share your experiences.

From Professional Learning Board’s online continuing education course for teachers: Introduction to Autism