Saturday 8 January 2022

Echo, echo, echo, echo ......



L was non verbal up until he was three. Prior to using verbal speech to communicate, L used a combination of sounds and key word signing to communicate.

L was able to say a few words that he knew and used on a daily basis. There were also others that he used but it was communication through EcholaliaEcholalia is best described as repeating phrases and words after an individual has heard them.

L also used, and still does, Scripted Speech, which is repeating parts of speech that he hears in movies, TV shows and even in general conversation. Often scripted speech is used to express an individual's emotions. They may a particular phrase when they are experiencing an emotion and then on future occasions, will say the phrase as it reminds them of that emotion.

For Autistic individuals, that may also use scripted speech in play - they may act out particular scenes from movies or television shows that we watch, verbatim.


This is one of the phrases that he'll say. But I've recently realised that I too will repeat phrases that I've heard. I will these phrases when it is appropriate and in particular situations. I don't consciously say these phrases, I just find myself saying them.

Like "You're welcome!" from Moana, when someone says thank you to me!

"We're going to need a bigger boat." (Jaws)

"To be faiiir!" (Letter Kenny!)

"Tell him he's dreaming." (The Castle)

"That'll do pig, that'll do." (Babe)

"Round up the usual suspects!" (Casablanca) - when we're organising the little superheroes to go somewhere!

"Houston, we have a problem." (Apollo 13)

"Just keep swimming." (Finding Nemo)

"Ogres are like onions!" (Shrek)

"Roads? Where we're going we don't need roads." (Back to the Future.)

No matter how an individual communicates, please listen to them and respect them ❤❤

I'd love to hear the phrases that you find yourself saying.

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