Communication Sciences and Disorders Commons^™

Assessing Language Abilities In School-Age Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Practices Of Speech-Language Pathologists, Mckayla M. Sprague, Cassandra Callahan, Tyrell Perrigo, Ran An

SACAD: John Heinrichs Scholarly and Creative Activity Days

Through an online survey conducted with 64 certified speech-language pathologists (SLPs) from 23 U.S. states, this study sheds light on the complex process of assessing language skills in school-aged children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The responses gathered reveal the significant challenges SLPs face, stemming from the vast diversity within the ASD spectrum. These insights strongly suggest a need for adopting assessment strategies that are not only more adaptable and thorough, but also deeply mindful of neurodiversity and the distinct communication skills present in children with ASD.