Validating word prompts & directions

Polish language translation of this resource

German translation of this resource

Children on the autism spectrum often do not make typical and expected statements in conversation to indicate interest.  This happens for two reasons.  First, they might not be at all interested in what the other person is saying.  Second, they might be interested, but they are not aware of the importance of validating words and phrases in conversation and they are not well practiced in using them.

Validating words and phrases, such as “cool,” “you don’t say,” “really,” how about that” and others are very common in typical conversation.  But many individuals with autism spectrum disorders use these words very seldom.  Without the special lubrication of validating words and phrases, the conversation can fall flat.

My short Youtube video on how to use validating language prompts is available through this link: http://bit.ly/wiL3dW .  If you watch it, a lot of this will probably become much more clear.

How make the written prompts:

Print out the PDF onto card stock or else paper that you laminate.

How to use the written prompts:

1.  Hold up the prompts during times when validating language is called for.

2.  Switch roles.  You play the person who does not know how to use these words.  Have the kids hold up the cards while you are talking to someone so you know what to say.

3.  Learn and use these short, easy songs from the YouTube video (with younger kids).  This helps them to learn and remember these important words.

Joel Shaul, LCSW

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