The home literacy environment of school-aged children with autism spectrum disorders

For typically developing (TD) children, the home literacy environment (HLE) impacts reading competence, yet few studies have explored the HLE of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). We collected information about the HLE of children aged 7-13 with ASD and their TD peers via a parental questionnaire and examined whether there were any differences in home literacy practices. Subtle group differences emerged. Children with ASD and concomitant language disorder (autism language disorder [ALD]) were engaged in shared reading and reading discussion more frequently than were TD children and children with ASD and age-appropriate language skills (autism language normal [ALN]). However, both ALN and ALD children engaged in shared reading for a shorter duration than their TD peers. Across groups, frequency and duration of independent reading were positively associated with reading ability and attitude. Thus, home literacy practices appear to reflect child characteristics, and parents are well placed to facilitate their children's literacy development through encouragement and scaffolding. HighlightsWhat is already known about this topicThe home literacy environment (HLE) impacts the reading development of typically developing children. Many children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have reading difficulties, but little is known about the HLE of children with ASD. What this paper addsWe examined the relationship between the HLE and reading for children with ASD. Poorer readers with ASD were engaged in shared reading practices more frequently than proficient readers. Children with ASD engaged in shared reading practices for a shorter duration than their typically developing peers. Implications for practiceHome literacy practices appear to reflect child characteristics. Parents are well placed to facilitate their children's literacy development through encouragement and scaffolding.