Nonverbal communication therapy in Mission Viejo, CA helps children build meaningful connections through gestures, eye contact, facial expressions, and body language. At Let’s Talk Speech and Language Therapy, Jill Dews, M.A., CCC-SLP, provides compassionate, individualized therapy that helps children express themselves even when words are difficult.
With over twenty years of experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist, Jill creates ASHA supportive programs that nurture communication, confidence, and connection.
Nonverbal therapy focuses on helping children understand and use communication in ways that fit their abilities and daily lives. Whether a child is on the autism spectrum, has a developmental delay, or is still learning to talk, this therapy offers practical tools to build interaction and understanding.
Understanding Nonverbal Communication
Nonverbal communication includes all the ways we share ideas without words. For many children, this form of communication develops naturally through imitation and play. When it does not, therapy helps teach these skills step by step, making it easier to connect with others.
Common signs that a child may benefit from nonverbal communication therapy include:
- Limited eye contact or facial expression
- Few gestures, such as waving or pointing
- Difficulty understanding others’ body language
- Trouble engaging in turn-taking or shared play
Therapy supports these skills in a calm, encouraging setting where every small success is celebrated. Children learn that communication comes in many forms, and every attempt matters.
How Nonverbal Communication Therapy Works
Jill begins therapy with a complete evaluation to understand each child’s strengths, interests, and communication style. She uses play, visuals, and real-life activities to make learning interactive and motivating. Each program focuses on building both understanding and expression. Therapy may include:
- Teaching gestures, signs, and facial expressions
- Encouraging shared attention and turn-taking
- Using visual supports or picture systems
- Strengthening social awareness through play
These activities help children feel more connected to family, friends, and teachers. Over time, nonverbal communication can lay the foundation for verbal language development.
The Role of Family Involvement
Families play a vital role in building communication skills outside of therapy. When parents use consistent strategies at home, progress happens faster and feels more natural.
Simple ways parents can support communication
- Follow your child’s lead and respond to gestures or sounds
- Use clear facial expressions and gestures to model meaning
- Encourage eye contact during play or routines
- Give extra time for your child to respond
- Celebrate any attempt to communicate, not just spoken words
Families in Mission Viejo often find that these techniques make daily interactions easier and more enjoyable. When communication feels positive, children are more likely to try new skills and stay engaged.
Comparing Communication Support Options
Every child’s communication journey looks different. Nonverbal therapy often works alongside other forms of support to create a full communication system.
| Therapy Type | Primary Focus | How It Helps Communication |
| Nonverbal Communication Therapy | Gestures, facial expressions, and attention | Builds connection, shared understanding, and engagement |
| Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) | Devices, pictures, or apps | Provides additional tools for expressing needs and ideas |
| Social Communication Therapy | Group and peer interaction | Strengthens confidence in real-world social settings |
This combination ensures that children have multiple ways to connect and express themselves, whether with gestures, visuals, or words.
Building Confidence Through Connection
Many children feel frustrated when others do not understand them. Jill’s therapy sessions focus on reducing that frustration by creating success through small, achievable goals. As children learn to communicate more clearly, their confidence grows, and they experience more joy in interactions.
Each session encourages curiosity, patience, and positive reinforcement. Jill uses play-based activities and familiar routines to make therapy engaging and meaningful. Over time, children begin to use new skills naturally during daily life.
Strategies That Strengthen Progress
Consistency and repetition help communication become automatic. When parents, teachers, and caregivers use the same techniques, children gain a stronger sense of confidence and understanding.
Helpful strategies for everyday practice
- Use simple gestures and expressions throughout the day
- Create short, face-to-face moments for interaction
- Pair gestures with words to support comprehension
- Practice social games like peek-a-boo or turn-taking
- Keep expectations realistic and celebrate each success
By turning therapy goals into small daily habits, families help children feel successful in every environment, from home to school to the community.
Taking the Next Step
If your child struggles to connect, make eye contact, or express needs without frustration, nonverbal communication therapy can help. Jill Dews, M.A., CCC-SLP, offers individualized programs in Mission Viejo designed to help children communicate in ways that work for them.
At Let’s Talk Speech and Language Therapy, Jill combines clinical expertise with warmth and creativity, helping children build understanding, trust, and joy in communication. Every program is tailored to each child’s age, abilities, and family goals.
To schedule an evaluation or learn more about nonverbal communication therapy in Mission Viejo, contact Let’s Talk Speech and Language Therapy today and take the first step toward stronger, more connected communication.
Let’s Talk Speech and Language Therapy was recently voted “Best Speech Pathologist” in Ladera Ranch California, a fantastic accomplishment. Schedule your consultation today and see why parents love us!