What to Do When Your Child Points Instead of Talks

Pointing is communication.

When a child points, they are already telling you something. They may be asking, choosing, showing, protesting, or inviting you to look. The goal is not to stop pointing. The goal is to build more communication around it.

Respond first

If your child points to water, say, “Water. You want water.” Then give the water. This teaches that communication works.

Add one word

After responding, model one simple word: want, more, help, open, go, stop, all done. Keep it short so your child can hear the important word.

Pair pointing with AAC

If the AAC board is nearby, tap the word that matches the point. For example, if your child points to the door, tap go or outside. You are adding a word to the gesture.

Avoid withholding too long

It can be tempting to hold the item until your child says the word. Too much waiting can cause frustration. A short pause is okay; a power struggle is not helpful.

Build from what your child already does

Pointing can become pointing plus a sound, pointing plus AAC, pointing plus a word, or pointing plus a short phrase. Each step counts.