How Can Peers Support Autistic Friends with Nonverbal Differences?

PostedDecember 5, 2025

UpdatedDecember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Autism peer support with nonverbal differences is essential for fostering meaningful friendships and promoting inclusion. Many autistic individuals experience challenges with nonverbal communication, such as difficulties with eye contact, facial expressions, or body language. These challenges can affect how they connect with others, making peer support crucial in creating a positive social environment.

Peers can play a significant role in supporting autistic friends by being patient, understanding, and adaptable. By recognising and respecting nonverbal differences, friends can help create a more inclusive atmosphere where autistic individuals feel understood and accepted.

Ways Peers Can Offer Autism Peer Support with Nonverbal Differences

Here are a few key strategies peers can use to make communication more inclusive and supportive for their autistic friends.

Be Patient and Observant

Understanding that nonverbal communication may look different for an autistic person is key. Peers should be patient and observe how their autistic friend communicates, whether through gestures, body language, or written words.

Use Clear and Direct Communication

Autistic individuals may find it easier to process verbal communication than nonverbal cues. Peers can support them by using clear, direct language and avoiding vague or indirect social signals. By using straightforward language, peers can make communication easier, helping foster stronger friendships.

Foster an Inclusive Environment

In group settings, peers can encourage inclusive activities where all individuals, regardless of nonverbal differences, feel comfortable participating. This might include activities that don’t rely on complex social cues, like games or hobbies that focus on shared interests.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to learn more about autism peer support with nonverbal differences and how peers can play a key role in fostering friendships and inclusion.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Nonverbal Communication Differences.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and 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.