There are two main types:
- Immediate echolalia happens right after hearing something (e.g., repeating a question instead of answering it).
- Delayed echolalia involves repeating phrases heard earlier, like lines from a show or past conversations.
While it may seem unusual, echolalia often serves a purpose. It can help autistic individuals process language, express needs, or self-soothe. For some, it’s a stepping stone toward more functional speech.
Understanding echolalia as a communication tool, not just a behavior, is key. With support, many children learn to build on echolalia and develop more flexible language skills.
At Steady Strides ABA, we help families to understand and support echolalia through personalized ABA therapy in Texas and Mexico. Our programs focus on turning repetition into meaningful communication.
Discover how we can help your child grow with confidence. Contact us today!
SOURCE:
https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/about-autism/autism-and-communication
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9578461/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0010027708001613
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/echolalia
https://gershautismacademy.com/blog/the-purpose-of-echolalia-for-children-with-autism/
