Connecting with a Nonverbal Child

Keep the gestures simple, both so that the child can understand, but also so they will be more likely to imitate them. These include clapping, reaching out your arms, making your mouth open when shocked, pointing, playing peek-a-boo, or opening your hands.

When your child offers gestures, such as pointing, make sure you respond immediately and interact with whatever they are pointing to. When you want to focus their attention on an item, point to it before using it as well.