Can a Child Lose Speech and Develop Autism?

PostedNovember 5, 2025

UpdatedNovember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Lucia Alvarez, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, speech regression in autism is a phenomenon where a child may lose previously acquired language skills as part of their autism development. This often occurs between the ages of 18 months and 3 years, a time when many children begin to speak more clearly and expand their vocabulary. However, for some children with autism, language loss can happen abruptly, causing them to stop using words they once knew or show less interest in communication.

While speech regression in autism can be concerning for parents, it’s important to note that it is just one of many autism symptoms that may develop at this stage. Children with autism may also exhibit delayed speech or difficulty with social communication, further complicating their ability to engage with others. This loss of language skills is often linked to the child’s difficulty in processing social cues and sensory input, which can make communication overwhelming.

How Speech Regression in Autism Appears

Typical patterns of speech loss in autism:

Loss of Previously Learned Words:

A child may suddenly stop using words or phrases they were previously using. This language loss can be alarming, especially when speech skills seem to be developing normally.

Reduced Social Communication:

Children with autism symptoms may withdraw from social interactions and avoid verbal or nonverbal communication, such as making eye contact or responding to their name.

Increased Frustration:

Without the ability to communicate effectively, children may become frustrated, leading to behavioural challenges or meltdowns.

Recognising speech regression in autism early on is critical for parents to seek appropriate interventions. Early therapy and support can help the child regain lost language skills and address other developmental concerns. For expert advice and personalised consultations, visit providers like Autism Detect for one-on-one support tailored to your child’s needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Early Signs & Symptoms of Autism.

Lucia Alvarez, MSc

Author

Lucia Alvarez is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience providing evidence-based therapy and psychological assessment to children, adolescents, and adults. Skilled in CBT, DBT, and other therapeutic interventions, she has worked in hospital, community, and residential care settings. Her expertise includes grief counseling, anxiety management, and resilience-building, with a strong focus on creating safe, supportive environments to improve mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.