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#2 - Ideas & Feelings
7. Augmentative Communication Boards - These devices come in an amazing array of shapes & sizes (& prices) and can really allow your child to communicate an awesome variety of messages both practical & more abstract. If you feel like your child is ready for this level of device (a good clue is when they frequently seem to have things to say that they just can't communicate effectively) then there are several things you need to do: „X Find a good speech language pathologist to assist you. „X Have your SLP do a full assessment to determine what type of messages your child needs or wants to send & what types of devices they can operate or learn to operate independently. „X Work with your SLP to narrow down number of possible devices to just 2 or 3. If possible try to borrow devices for an in home trial period from a state technology lending library or actual company that sells device. „X Try to anticipate all of your technology needs up front. Who will train your child to use device? Who will program device, both now & as your child's needs change? Who will train your family & other support people in how to use device? Who will repair device if it breaks down? Will you need help to fund device? If so, what do you need to do now to obtain funding ? This sounds like a lot of effort & it can be. But if your child truly can utilize a communication device to "find their voice" everything you do will be worth it.
8. Teach typing - This may seem like an old fashioned suggestion, but give it some thought. Whether you use an actual typewriter or teach them to type on a computer keyboard you give them 1 tremendous advantage -- free thought. Your child will be able to say virtually anything (& they probably will!). This approach does not rely on anyone else to select pictures or program phrases. It's all their own creation. One advantage of going with computer keyboard -- there is software available that can anticipate frequently used phrases. This saves valuable keystrokes for slow typists that may have lots to say!
9. Comment Cards - A decided more low key approach is comment cards. These are simply index cards with different comments typed on them in a large size. The cards can be color coded to help kids select one they one quickly & easily. So, red card says "I need a break" & blue card says "I want a turn", etc. Comment cards work well for kids who see a lot of different people in course of their day. Even folks they don't know too well will understand a printed message. Communication isn't so secure if they are relying on subtle body movements.
10. Switch activated signals - These signals can be operated a variety of switches that can be geared to virtually any controlled body movement. Signals usually consist of lights, sounds, or vibrations & work well if your child attends group activities where they need to communicate with group leader. Common messages might be, "I'm done" or "I need help with this". Although these tips may seem simple we feel that most communication systems will actually use a combination of approaches. What works at school, may not always be right for home & vice versa. The most important things to shoot for when developing a communication system: „X Does your child understand system & can they use it independently. „X Is your family & other people your child sees regularly comfortable enough with system to use it every day. „X Is system reliable & useful enough that it is working & in use more than it is broken or stuffed in a closet.
Hopefully some of these ideas will allow you to open wonderful world of communication to your child! Happy chatting!
Copyright 2001, Lisa Simmons
Lisa is the director of the Ideal Lives Project, providing practical support for special needs families & professionals. Visit on-line at http://www.ideallives.com or subscribe to her free newsletter at mailto:ideallives-subscribe@topica.com