autism & glp

Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) is a form of language development that starts with whole memorized scripts and moves to single words. It is a completely normal way to develop language, just like Analytic Language Processing is (or the traditional way most people learn language, from single words to complex sentences).

Watch the video below to learn what Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) is.

Gestalt Language Processing is a fairly new phonemenon. Many SLPs did not learn about it in grad school. Marge Blanc is one of the first SLPs to research Gestalt Language Processing. She wrote a book titled "Natural Language Acquisition on the Autism Spectrum" in 2012. It didn't become a widely known way of learning language until recently, especially when SLP Alexandria Zachos started her company Meaningful Speech. Alex has shared helpful information about GLP on Instagram and has created a GLP course for both parents and SLPs.

Here is the difference between Analytic Language Processing and Gestalt Language Processing:

What does it look like? Let's look at some examples:

Marge Blanc discovered that Gestalt Language Processors follow these 6 stages:

 (it's important to note that the stages are NOT linear. A child can be in multiple stages at one time.)

Listen to a free "crash course" on gestalt language development on The Two Sides of the Spectrum Podcast -Episode 40. You can listen anywhere you access podcasts or Delayed Echolalia & Gestalt Language Processors with Alexandria Zachos | Two Sides of the Spectrum (simplecast.com).

Watch the following videos to help support your Gestalt Language Processor:

These handouts can be helpful to learn more about Gestalt Language Processing:

En Español:

This podcast titled "Let Them Lead: The Child-Led Autism Podcast" is another great resource!

Here are some great Instagram accounts to follow to learn more about GLP:

Meaningful Speech

The Child Led SLP

Boho Speechie

Amy Z The SLP

If you have any questions about GLP, please ask your child's SLP. We are happy to help!