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68 %u00a9 Elklan Training Limited 2025Elklan Supporting Gestalt Language Processing %u2013 a Total Communication ApproachIt is possible to decode the words from print and read without tapping into the meaning of the words. This is when the child or young person computes or decodes the word as shown in the following model of reading without meaning.8.7 STRATEGIES TO SUPPORT LITERACYThe child or young person may be using their strength of visual memory to read. They may also read numbers, letter names, words, phrases, books without reading for meaning. The child or young person may have had a very high interest in letters, numbers and remember chunks of written information from a young age. Ostrolenk et al (2024) found across two studies that 20 to 37% of autistic children had an intense or exclusive interest in letters. Using the child or young person%u2019s strengths and interests in numbers and letters may be useful. Mapping written words onto photos of items they are interested in and using writing with symbols may support reading and writing with meaning.Using the strength of sight-reading initially to access learning might be more beneficial than focusing on synthetic phonics unless the child or young person is also developing their use of phonics.An individualised approach will include sharing books they are interested in and making bespoke books about their family, their life or their interests. This may encourage reading with meaning.