Where to Start When You’re New to Gestalt Language Development

If you’ve just discovered the term gestalt language processing (GLP), you might be wondering where to even begin. Maybe you’ve noticed your child repeating favorite phrases and songs, or you’ve come across posts that finally describe what you’ve been observing.

You’re not alone! Many caregivers start curious, sometimes a little unsure, but always wanting to understand and support their child the best that they can.

What should I focus on first?

When you’re new to gestalt language processing, it can be tempting to search for strategies and step-by-step instructions. But the most meaningful starting point as a caregiver is observation and connection.

Here are a few things to focus on:

• Listen and observe. Notice what your child says or sings or is interested in. Gestalt are meaningful, even if it’s not immediately clear.
• Model naturally. Instead of prompting, asking questions or asking your child to repeat specific words, respond to what they communicate with genuine interest and connection. Offer natural language models that fit and are natural in the moment. Make comments and observations from the child’s perspective or a joint perspective but trying to avoid pronouns like “you” or “you’re” (more on this HERE). However, don’t overthink it!
• Learn about the Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) framework. Understanding the stages of language development helps you see how children move from inflexible gestalts to flexible, self-generated language.
• Follow your child’s lead. When children feel understood, safe, and connected, their language development unfolds naturally.
• Find community. Connect with other GLP parents or caregivers: Share experiences, ask questions and reflect. Find a community that gets it while you start on this new journey. 

Helpful Resources to Get You Started

When you’re ready to learn more, start with resources that are clear, practical, and neuro-affirming. A few helpful places include:

• Our Free Masterclass on Echolalia and Child-Led Therapy. This is an accessible introduction to gestalt language development and the importance of child-led approaches and interactions. Enroll in the Masterclass HERE.
  
• Blog Posts and handouts: we post weekly about topics related to gestalt language development, and child-led therapy. These blog posts are accessible and easy to print or forward to those on your child’s  team or family members. Check out more of our blog posts HERE. 
  
• Podcasts: There are many podcasts on gestalt language development. We have them all listed right on our website. Tune in to some of our recommended podcasts HERE. 

Why community matters?

Learning about gestalt language development is often more meaningful when you have a place to talk through ideas, celebrate wins, vent and connect with others who truly understand.

That is why we created Meaningful Connections, a parent membership designed for caregivers of gestalt language processors and autistic children.

Inside, you’ll find:

• A private forum for conversations with those who GET it.
  
• Quarterly recorded live sessions with Jessi, a parent of two autistic gestalt language processors, and guests (other parents and professional experts). These will be recorded and available for those who cannot attend live. 
  
• A library of free educational handouts and resources.
  
• Opportunities to connect with other caregivers locally, virtually or through the online directory where you can see who is online and start a conversation. 
• A free ticket to our upcoming webinar for caregivers : A Caregiver’s Guide to Supporting your Echolalic Child which will take place in December 2025 and will be recorded for those who cannot attend live. More information to come. 

Those that join in November 2025 will get the membership for only $5/month. After that, the price will increase. 

Our team created this private community because we’ve seen how powerful it is when parents come together to share experiences, ask questions, and support one another. Meaningful Connections was built for that purpose. It is a safe space where you can learn at your own pace, surrounded by people who truly understand. Learn more about it HERE and/or join today!