Member-only story

A Comprehensive Guide to Developing Meaningful Communication with Children and Young Adults Who Use AAC

Alfred Ross

·10.6k Followers· Follow

Published in Remarkable Conversations: A Guide To Developing Meaningful Communication With Children And Young Adults Who Are Deafblind

6 min read

1.3k View Claps

91 Respond

Save

Listen

Remarkable Conversations: A guide to developing meaningful communication with children and young adults who are deafblind

by Rupert Matthews

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	91277 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	769 pages

Communication is essential for human connection, learning, and development. For children and young adults who have difficulty speaking, using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) can provide them with the means to express themselves and participate fully in their world.

AAC encompasses a wide range of tools and strategies that can be used to support communication. These tools can include communication boards, speech-generating devices, and sign language.

Developing meaningful communication with children and young adults who use AAC requires a commitment from their parents, educators, and caregivers. It is important to create an environment that is supportive and conducive to communication.

This guide will provide you with the information and resources you need to develop meaningful communication with children and young adults who use AAC.

Communication Strategies

There are a variety of communication strategies that can be used with children and young adults who use AAC.

Picture exchange: This strategy involves using pictures or symbols to represent words and phrases. The child or young adult can select the pictures or symbols to communicate their wants and needs.
Sign language: Sign language is a complete language that uses gestures and facial expressions to communicate. It can be used by children and young adults who have difficulty speaking.
Speech-generating devices: Speech-generating devices are electronic devices that allow children and young adults to produce spoken language. These devices can be programmed with a variety of words and phrases.
Communication boards: Communication boards are boards or mats that contain pictures or symbols. The child or young adult can point to the pictures or symbols to communicate their wants and needs.

The best communication strategy for a particular child or young adult will depend on their individual needs and abilities. It is important to work with a speech-language pathologist to determine the best communication strategy for your child or young adult.

Assistive Technology

Assistive technology can play a vital role in supporting communication for children and young adults who use AAC.

Speech-generating devices: Speech-generating devices are electronic devices that allow children and young adults to produce spoken language. These devices can be programmed with a variety of words and phrases.
Communication boards: Communication boards are boards or mats that contain pictures or symbols. The child or young adult can point to the pictures or symbols to communicate their wants and needs.
Eye gaze technology: Eye gaze technology allows children and young adults who have difficulty moving their hands to control a computer or communication device with their eyes.

Assistive technology can help children and young adults who use AAC to communicate more effectively and participate more fully in their world.

Best Practices for Interacting with Children and Young Adults Who Use AAC

There are a number of best practices that should be followed when interacting with children and young adults who use AAC.

Be patient: It may take time for children and young adults who use AAC to communicate their wants and needs. Be patient and allow them time to express themselves.
Be respectful: Always treat children and young adults who use AAC with respect. Listen to what they have to say and value their opinions.
Use clear and concise language: When speaking to children and young adults who use AAC, use clear and concise language. Avoid using jargon or slang.
Use visual supports: When possible, use visual supports to help children and young adults who use AAC understand what you are saying. This could include pictures, symbols, or gestures.
Give children and young adults who use AAC time to respond: When asking children and young adults who use AAC questions, give them time to respond. Do not interrupt them or rush them.

By following these best practices, you can help to create an environment that is supportive and conducive to communication for children and young adults who use AAC.

Developing meaningful communication with children and young adults who use AAC is essential for their development and well-being. By using the strategies and resources outlined in this guide, you can help to create an environment that fosters communication and allows these children and young adults to reach their full potential.

Remarkable Conversations: A guide to developing meaningful communication with children and young adults who are deafblind

by Rupert Matthews

4.5 out of 5