Autism and unspoken language.

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I have learned American Sign Language to some degree, currently in a couple other classes on campus. Does anyone use flashcards or signs to express themselves when they go socially mute, or get over stimulated?

For me, I flap my hands, close my eyes, and then sign what I need from those around me. Since I learned the basic signs six months ago my communication with strangers has also improved, given most of those I socialize with now are deaf! I used to use flash cards that had different emotions/states (happy, sad, frustrated, over stimulated, tired, hungry) and different actions/cues (clear table, clutter, noise, light, my ear plugs, pen, paper, backpack, etc.) that I used when I couldn't verbally tell my fiance what I needed from him. I kept it on a mini-flash card ring attached to my keys.

I'm interested in seeing how everyone else communicates. I was never in ABA or OT as a child so I've had to learn most of my skills on my own!