Is Your Child Saying Phrases Over and Over?

We all know that raising kids is an adventure filled with surprises. If you’ve noticed your child using the same words or phrases repeatedly, you might be wondering what’s going on and how to help.

Let’s explore the world of repetitive language in childhood together, with a sprinkle of curiosity and a big dose of understanding.

What is Repetitive Language in Childhood?

Repetitive language in childhood is the tendency to use the same words or phrases over and over again, where the meaning gets a bit lost in the repetition.

It’s like a looping audio track or a reel on repeat. While it’s a common trait in autistic kids, it’s also something that many neurotypical kids do from time to time.

Recognizing the Patterns

Now that we have a general idea of what repetitive language is, let’s look at how to actually recognize it. Repetitive language can take many forms.

Here are a few examples to help you spot the patterns.

• Frequent use of unique words: Your child might use a particular word, like “basically” or “actually,” in almost every sentence.
• Made-up words: Children might invent their own words and expect others to understand their meaning.
• Repeating words when excited: Excitement can sometimes lead to repeated exclamations like “Wow! Wow! Wow!”
• Echoing phrases from movies or shows: Kids might repeat lines from their favorite shows, sometimes obsessively.
• Formal or sophisticated language: Using language that seems unusually mature for their age can also be a form of repetition.
• Echolalia: This involves repeating words or phrases spoken by others, like an echo.

Understanding the Why

It can be helpful to understand why your child might be using repetitive language.

There are several reasons why children might repeat words or phrases.

• Autism spectrum disorder: Repetitive language is a common trait in autistic children. It can be a way of self-soothing, processing information, or communicating when social interaction feels challenging.
• Language disorders: Children with language disorders might repeat words or phrases as they struggle to express themselves fluently.
• Intellectual disability: Processing language can be challenging for children with intellectual disabilities, leading to repetition.
• Head injury: Traumatic brain injuries can sometimes affect language processing and lead to repetitive language.
• Schizophrenia: While rare in children, schizophrenia can involve repetitive or unclear language.

Pitfalls to Avoid

When addressing repetitive language in your child, there are a few things you might want to avoid doing.

• Dismissing it as “just a phase”: While some repetition is normal, persistent repetitive language can impact a child’s social interactions and communication skills.
• Criticizing or punishing: Negative reactions can make the child feel self-conscious and worsen the behavior.
• Ignoring the underlying needs: Repetitive language often masks unmet needs or challenges that require attention and support.

Pearls of Wisdom for Parents

So, what can you do to help?

Here are some practical tips for supporting your child.

• Embrace communication: Engage your child in conversations on various topics, encouraging back-and-forth interaction.
• Prepare for social situations: Role-play social scenarios to help your child practice different conversation topics and responses.
• Explore low-risk social activities: Encourage participation in activities that don’t heavily rely on social skills, such as art classes or Lego clubs.
• Consider social skills groups: These groups provide a safe space for children to practice social interaction and communication skills.
• Provide downtime: Allow your child time to engage in their special interests and express themselves freely.

When to Seek Professional Guidance

It’s important to know when to seek professional help. If your child’s repetitive language is significantly impacting their communication or social skills, it’s a good idea to reach out to a specialist. A speech-language pathologist, psychologist, or school psychologist can assess your child’s needs and provide appropriate support and interventions.

A Final Word on Repetitive Language

Parenting a child with repetitive language can have its unique challenges, but remember, you are not alone. With patience, understanding, and the right support, you can help your child navigate the world of communication and social interaction with confidence and joy.

Resources for repetitive language in children

Baker, Jed. (Retrieved 2017). Social skills books and resources for ASD. http://socialskillstrainingproject.com/books.html

Baker, Jed. (2006) Social skills picture book for high school and beyond.

Berns, Roberta M. (2010). Child, family, school, community: Socialization and support.

Giler, Janet Z. (2000). Socially ADDept: A manual for parents of children with ADHD and / or learning disabilities.

Giler, Janet Z. (2011). Socially ADDept: Teaching social skills to children with ADHD, LD, and Asperger’s.

Gray, Carol & Attwood, Tony (2010). The New Social Story Book, Revised and Expanded 10th Anniversary Edition: Over 150 Social Stories that Teach Everyday Social Skills to Children with Autism or Asperger’s Syndrome, and their Peers.

Fein, Deborah (2011). “The Neuropsychology of Autism”

Kroncke, Willard, & Huckabee (2016). Assessment of autism spectrum disorder: Critical issues in clinical forensic and school settings. Springer, San Francisco.

McConnell, Nancy & LoGuidice (1998). That’s Life! Social language.

Mendler, Allen (2013). Teaching your students how to have a conversation.

Ozonoff, Sally & Dawson, Geraldine & McPartland, James C. (2014). A parent’s guide to high functioning autism spectrum disorder: How to meet the challenges and help your child thrive.

UCLA PEERS Clinic https://www.semel.ucla.edu/peers

Children’s books on social skills

Brown, Laurie Krasny & Brown, Marc (2001). How to be a friend: A guide to making friends and keeping them (Dino life guides for families).

Cook, Julia (2012). Making Friends is an art!: A children’s book on making friends (Happy to be, you and me).

Cooper, Scott (2005). Speak up and get along!: Learn the mighty might, thought chop, and more tools to make friends, stop teasing, and feel good about yourself.

Meiners, Cheri. (2003). Understand and care.