What Is Functional Communication?

What is functional communication?

Functional communication is the everyday, practical, real-life way kids let us know what they need, what they want, and how they feel. It’s the kind of communication that actually works in the moment. It may not be perfect sentences or fancy vocabulary, but it's the starting point for advocacy, connection, and navigating the world around them.

Communication can include:

• Get something you want

• Ask for help

• Reject something (“no,” pushing away, shaking their head)

• Share a comment (“look,” “wow,” pointing)

• Ask for a break

• Express a feeling

• Participate socially

Functional communication is NOT limited to spoken words.

Communication may also look like:

• Gestures (reaching, waving, pushing something away)

• Facial expressions (smiles, frowns, raised eyebrows)

• Signs or simple motions

• Body language (moving closer, turning away)

• Vocalizations (“mmm,” “uh!”)

• Single words

• Picture cards or choice boards

• AAC devices (tapping “more,” “help,” “go”)

• Eye gaze (looking at the thing they want, or at you then back at the item)

• Bringing you an object

Examples of functional communication

Here’s what functional communication looks like in everyday moments:

At home

• A toddler reaches toward the fridge to say, “I want that.”

• A preschooler signs “help” when they can’t open a container.

• A child pushes away broccoli as their way of saying “No thanks.”

• A non-speaking child says “more” on their AAC device.

• A child brings you a book because they want to read together.

At school

• A student hands a picture card to the teacher that says “break.”

• A child says, “My turn,” during a game.

• A student points to the playground while saying, “outside.”

• A child says “stop” when something feels uncomfortable.

During play

• Saying “go!” before a slide.

• Signing “more bubbles.”

• Moving your hand to the toy because they want assistance.

These small moments are the foundation of communication, connection, and independence. They help us connect with others, share our thoughts, and build our independence.

BUT, WHY does functional communication matter so much?

Functional communication plays a HUGE role in a child’s emotional well-being, confidence, and ability to learn. Here’s why it’s foundational:

1. It cuts down on frustration

When kids can communicate reliably, they don’t have to resort to crying, yelling, grabbing, or shutting down.

2. It helps with regulation

Talking gives kids the tools to handle challenging moments, ask for breaks, and express their needs in ways that grown-ups can respond to.

3. It builds confidence and independence

Every time kids succeed in communicating, it sends a strong message: “My voice counts. My needs matter.” That’s how self-advocacy starts.

4. It boosts connection

When kids feel heard, they can connect with those around them. At home, in therapy, at school, and in the community, good communication makes relationships safer and more predictable.

5. It sets the stage for future language and social skills

Being able to comment, protest, ask for help, or share happiness helps with:

• Vocabulary building

• Play skills

• Taking turns

• Social skills

• Expressing feelings

• Getting ready for school

Functional communication is the starting point for everything else.

Functional Communication: Myths vs. Reality

This isn’t about right or wrong. It’s about expanding our understanding of communication so every voice and every ability has a place to be heard.

Sometimes you may think functional communication means: ❌ Full sentences

❌ Perfect grammar

❌ “Use your words” at all times

❌ Only spoken communication

❌ Communication on adult terms

But in reality: ✔️ A point

✔️ A gesture

✔️ A sign

✔️ A head shake

✔️ A single word

✔️ A picture card

✔️ An AAC button tap

Every kid deserves a way to communicate, and it doesn’t have to look just one way. Whether they use words, gestures, AAC, signs, or a mix, their voice is important and valued.

This skill opens the door to independence, connection, and emotional growth. When we help kids communicate in ways that work for them, we’re supporting the whole kid.

Let’s celebrate their voices and watch them grow!

Every Voice. Every Ability!