👋 Hello {{first name | reader…}} Martin Ferguson here.
In this edition of ⚗️DistillED, we’re looking at how clear, calm communication helps autistic students thrive — and why small language shifts can make a big difference for everyone in the classroom.
📊 Before we begin... How would you describe your classroom language style?
📄 View this week’s FREE resource: Inclusive Language Sentence Starters
What is Inclusive Communication?
At its core, communication with autistic children means adapting our language and interaction style to reduce confusion and anxiety, and to create clarity and mutual understanding. Autism is a neurological difference that affects how individuals process language, social cues and sensory input. This doesn’t mean autistic children lack social skills; rather, they have different social skills that need to be respected and understood. I work with autistic students every day and I see how impactful our language choices and instructions are when we interact every day. The students are unique individuals with diverse strengths and needs, but there are teaching methods that help them thrive.
Researcher Joe Butler observed that autistic people often experience heightened stress when trying to “fit in” to an allistic (non-autistic) world, which can make communication exhausting. This doesn’t mean they cannot communicate effectively; it suggests that the responsibility lies with us to make adjustments.
“For an autistic person, communicating with an allistic (non-autistic) colleague – or perhaps several at once – can be confusing and exhausting. Whether consciously or not, autistic people often feel the need to mask their differences in order ‘to fit in’ with the allistic people around them.”
In simple terms, think of it as creating an even playing field where language is clear, direct, and predictable. Essentially, it’s about:
Reducing Ambiguity: During instruction, use clear and concrete language in words, questions, and directions to minimise confusion
Allowing Processing Time: During discussions, pause for at least 10 seconds to give students time to think and respond.
Using Visual Aids: During explanations, pair spoken language with visuals such as symbols, images, or schedules to reinforce meaning.
Respecting Sensory and Emotional Needs: During interaction, be mindful of sensory sensitivities and emotions to create a calm, supportive environment.
Let’s take a quick look at the research.
Why Does Inclusive Communication Matter?
Research shows that when teachers adapt their language, by slowing down, avoiding idioms, and using clear instructions, students feel less anxious and more able to engage. Masking to cope with unclear communication can be exhausting and also have an impact on working memory and cognitive load. Joe Butler notes:
“Allistic communication can be bewildering and baffling for autistic people.”
When this principle is overlooked, students often experience stress, misunderstandings, and exclusion from classroom dialogue. Studies from the Autism Education Trust found that inclusive communication strategies significantly improve participation and confidence which is what a true inclusion looks like.
Teachers who use clear, structured language tend to see better comprehension, reduced anxiety, and more positive relationships. Ultimately, it matters because:
Miscommunication: When language is unclear, it can lead to frustration, confusion, and isolation for autistic students.
Inclusive Communication: By adapting language, we unlock participation and learning potential for every student.
Respecting Differences: When we value diverse communication styles, we build belonging, confidence, and wellbeing.
Clear Language: Using structured, concrete language supports understanding for all learners — not just autistic ones.
So, how do we make sure communication leads to real understanding — not just polite compliance?
Let’s look at some simple shifts and strategies that make every interaction clearer and more inclusive…
How do I Implement Inclusive Communication?
To apply this principle, start by reviewing your everyday classroom language. One practical way to do this is to replace vague time expressions like “later” with specifics such as “Thursday at 10 a.m.” Try modelling this by using clear, concrete examples in instructions and questions.
In your department, agree to pilot some phraseology to reduce ambiguity and create a shared bank of clear alternatives for feedback. Instead of “Good effort, but needs more depth”, say “Add one more example and explain why it supports your point.”. When completing group work for example, clarify roles explicitly Alex will read the passage aloud and Joe will write down the key points.
Language of ‘WIN’
‘Language of WIN’ is a useful way to approach rigidity of thought when working with autistic students. I created a helpful resource after a training day with Education Authority Northern Ireland. This is just one language shift I have used and have seen results. You can download the resource at the end of this post.
The WIN Approach — Wonder, Imagine, Notice — reframes correction and guidance through curiosity, empathy, and observation.
Wonder: Ask questions that invite reflection rather than confrontation.
“I wonder if you’re finding this topic challenging?”
“I wonder what your thoughts are on this project?”
Imagine: Show empathy by naming possible feelings or challenges.
“I imagine it might be hard to concentrate with all the noise.”
“I imagine that change in routine was unexpected for you.”
Notice: Highlight observed behaviours and link them to positive actions.
“I notice you’ve been working hard on this.”
“I notice you seem a bit distracted today — is something on your mind?”
(Credit: Ursula Mackel and Lesley Blaney - Post Primary Behaviour Support and Partnerships - Children and Young People’s Services training session.)
So, how can we bring this to life in the classroom? Well, in true ⚗️DistillED style, here’s a five-part framework for shaping clear, inclusive classroom communication — blending empathy, clarity, and accessibility.
Shift | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
1. Slow Down and Pause
| Slowing speech and allowing silence reduces overwhelm and supports comprehension. | After asking a question, silently count to ten before prompting again. |
2. Use Short, Direct Instructions
| Keep directions concise and concrete so students know exactly what to do. | Say, “Write three sentences explaining the main idea,” instead of, “Can you expand on that a bit more?” |
3. Limit Idioms and Ambiguous Phrases
| Avoid figurative or abstract expressions that may cause misunderstanding. | Replace “Hit the ground running” with “Start your work straight away.” |
4. Add Visual Supports
| Use visuals, colour cues, or schedules to strengthen understanding and recall. | Use colour-coded timetables, icons, or cue cards alongside verbal directions. |
5. Check Understanding Gently (WIN)
| Use calm, open questions to confirm understanding and encourage self-checking. | Ask, “What’s your next step?” instead of “Do you understand?” |
Additionally, you could use collaborative strategies like agreeing on visual cues for “I need a break” or “I’m ready to talk.” Revisit and refine by asking students what works best for them. Again, this is determined by your own context and setting, but the focus is shaping language to make the lesson accessible and provide opportunities for small or incremental wins.
When we design lessons this way, students feel understood, valued, and able to participate fully.
💬 Try it this week: Choose one phrase from the Language of WIN resource and use it in tomorrow’s lesson.
👉 Download the Inclusive Language WIN and PACE resource below and share it with a colleague who’ll find it useful.
🧠 Want more free one-pagers like this? Join DistillED+ for full access to the growing library.
Thanks for reading — and for taking the time to reflect on how language can build connection, calm, and clarity in every classroom.
— Martin Ferguson
Free Resource Download
Inclusive Language WIN and PACE Free Download
A one-page printable guide that helps teachers use inclusive communication with clarity and empathy. It introduces the Language of WIN (Wonder, Imagine, Notice) and the PACE approach (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy) — simple, evidence-informed strategies to support autistic and neurodiverse learners through calm, respectful, and connection-focused language.
DistillED+ Checklist and Slideshow
This week’s ⚗️DistillED+ resources include an Inclusive Communication Checklist and a CPD Slideshow. Together, they unpack practical ways to adapt classroom language for autistic and neurodiverse learners — showing how to reduce ambiguity, build predictability, and use the WIN and PACE frameworks to strengthen clarity, empathy, and connection. Explore how inclusive communication can lower anxiety, boost participation, and make every learner feel understood.
If you’re a ⚗️DistillED+ member, scroll to the bottom of this post to access the exclusive download. You can also visit the DistillED+ Hub to explore the full library of member-only resources.
Upgrade to DistillED+ to get this content!
Join DistillED+
Members gain access to expertly curated digital evidence-informed content
UPGRADEA ⚗️DistillED+ subscription gets you:
- Full access to new premium one-page guides
- Full access to evidence-informed strategy checklists
- Full access to slide templates (PowerPoint and Keynote)