Neurodivergent Speech Therapist in Kent - Jamie Louise Hollis - ADHD SLT

GESTALT LANGUAGE PROCESSING

Gestalt language processing is a way of learning language where people—especially some autistic individuals—acquire phrases instead of individual words (Zachos, 2024). Instead of learning single words first, they start by repeating whole phrases or sentences they’ve heard (echolalia). Over time, they break these down into smaller parts to form unique expressions.

This differs from analytic language processing, where language is learned step by step, starting with smaller units like single words.

Example of Gestalt Language Processing

Here’s an example of how this might look in practice:

Why Understanding Gestalt Language Processing Matters

Recognizing gestalt language processing is important because it highlights that some people—especially autistic individuals—learn in larger chunks instead of single words. This understanding helps parents, educators, and therapists provide support that matches their natural way of processing language. As a result, language development becomes more effective and affirming.

By embracing this unique learning style, we can change how echolalia is viewed. Instead of seeing it as “meaningless,” we can recognize it as a natural stage of language development. Gradually, this approach encourages spontaneous and independent communication, allowing individuals to express themselves authentically.

Quick Facts About Gestalt Language Processing

  • Many autistic children are gestalt language processors, though neurotypical children can be as well (Zachos, 2024b).
  • Some people are a mix of analytic and gestalt processors, with a preference for one style (Evans, 2022).
  • Echolalia, a key feature of gestalt processing, has often been mislabeled as “meaningless,” but research proves otherwise (Cohn et al., 2022).
  • Echolalia plays an important role in identity and serves many purposes, including communication, self-expression, and self-soothing (Cohn, Harrison, & McVilly, 2023).
  • Marge Blanc’s NLA framework has been highly effective in supporting gestalt language processors (Blanc, 2022).

Supporting Gestalt Language Processors

Here are some ideas and tips for supporting gestalt language processors. While these strategies are especially helpful for gestalt learners, they can benefit all children!

honouring echolalia

Repeated phrases (echolalia) aren’t “random” or “meaningless”—they hold real meaning for gestalt language processors. These phrases can express thoughts, emotions, or connections to past experiences. Recognizing echolalia as a valid form of communication shows children that their way of expressing themselves is valued and understood.

This approach builds confidence, encourages engagement, and helps us understand their unique perspective. By honoring their communication, we help them feel seen, heard, and supported as they develop language in their own way.

Modelling Gestalts

When we model gestalts, we use phrases, sentences, or chunks of language instead of single words. This aligns with how gestalt language processors naturally learn—by hearing and using whole expressions.

For example, instead of saying just “drink,” you could say, “Let’s have a drink” or “Time for a drink.” This method allows them to absorb language in a way that feels natural. Over time, it helps them develop more complex and meaningful speech patterns.

The ideas below are adapted from Blanc (2024).

Follow Their Interests

Building on a child’s interests makes learning more engaging, natural, and enjoyable. If a child loves a TV show, incorporating its phrases, characters, or themes can help them feel understood and valued, creating meaningful opportunities for language development.

For therapists, Chat Mats (created by me!) can help identify a child’s likes, neutrals, and dislikes using simple gestalts. These adaptable visual supports adjust to the child’s stage of gestalt processing, ensuring communication remains relevant and meaningful.

Reduce Questions

For individuals in the early stages of language development, limiting questions is helpful. They might not yet be ready to answer them (Zachos, 2024c). If you do need to ask something, try offering choices instead. This makes it easier for them to respond.

declarative language

Declarative language focuses on describing what you see, feel, or experience without pressuring the child to respond. Instead of asking, “What’s that?”, you could say, “I see a big red truck.” Or instead of instructing, “Say ‘hello,’” try saying, “It’s nice to see you.”

This approach removes the demand for a response, creating a relaxed and natural way for the child to absorb language. By reducing the pressure to “perform,” it allows them to engage and respond in their own time, helping to build confidence and connection.

Why These Strategies Support Gestalt Language Processors

💖 Recognizing Echolalia as Meaningful:

Repeated phrases are not random; they carry meaning, express emotions, and connect to past experiences. Validating echolalia helps children feel understood.

✨ Building Confidence and Engagement:

Honoring a child’s communication style fosters trust, encourages participation, and supports natural language development.

🏆 Modelling Gestalts Instead of Single Words:

Instead of Single Words – Using phrases or chunks of language (e.g., “Let’s have a drink” instead of “drink”) aligns with how gestalt language processors naturally learn.

📱 Incorporating Special Interests:

Using familiar TV shows, characters, or themes makes language more engaging and relevant, supporting meaningful communication growth.

🖥 Using Chat Mats for Communication Support:

Communication Support – Visual supports like Chat Mats help identify likes, neutrals, and dislikes, adapting to a child’s stage of gestalt processing.

❓ Reducing Questions:

Reducing Questions – Many gestalt language processors may not be ready to answer direct questions. Instead, offering choices makes it easier for them to respond.

❗️Using Declarative Language:

Declarative language focuses on describing what you see, feel, or experience without pressuring the child to respond. Instead of asking, “What’s that?”, you could say, “I see a big red truck.” Or instead of instructing, “Say ‘hello,’” try saying, “It’s nice to see you.”

This approach removes the demand for a response, creating a relaxed and natural way for the child to absorb language. By reducing the pressure to “perform,” it allows them to engage and respond in their own time, helping to build confidence and connection.

summary:

This section has explored key aspects of communication, including speech and language therapy, speech, language, and gestalt language processing. We’ve covered how people develop communication skills, the challenges they may face, and how therapy can offer meaningful, affirming support.

For more information, explore other sections of the website:

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