| This study investigated the language and communication between young children with autism and their caregivers at two time points over 14-months. Natural play interactions were transcribed and coded for functions, forms, and types of communication. Both the children and their caregivers changed significantly in terms of amount of language, and how they communicated over time. Results suggested that while strong relationships existed within each time point, there were not consistent relationships that predicted later child language. Caregivers appear to be responding to, and adjusting, their language and communication to their child's current abilities. |
