Good Communcation with Your Child

Communication is the process by which one person gives or receives information from another person.  It is through communication that individuals express their wants and needs and build relationships with others.  Unfortunately, communication is often difficult for our loved ones with special needs.  It is important to remember that communication does not only occur when using spoken language.  Communication takes on many forms and can occur through spoken language, facial expressions, body language, sign language, picture symbols, writing and/or the use of a communication device.  Below are some techniques to keep in mind when communicating with your child.

Recognize Different Forms of Communication

It is important to recognize what form of communication your child uses and responds to.  Your child may use multiple forms of communication to express himself or herself and it may be different from the type of communication they respond to.  For example, your child may respond to spoken language; however, he or she may use picture symbols to express his or her wants and needs.  Unfortunately, not everyone who interacts with your child will understand their dynamic communication; therefore, it is important for you to educate your family and friends about your child’s communication techniques.

Be Face to Face

Sometimes your child might find it hard to look at you and establish eye contact.  At these times, it will be easier for your child to look at you if you are face to face. By getting on the same level with your child, your child will know that you are present and ready to communicate.  In addition, you can identify what he or she is looking at and you can comment on their interests. If your child finds being face to face overwhelming, start by being at the same physical level (i.e., crouching down, lying next to them).  Talking and playing are much easier if you can see each other!

Use an Appropriate Language Level

It is important to modify your language to a level that your child will understand.  If your child has an understanding of one to two word utterances or phrases, use simple language.  Try to pair a verb with an object (i.e., drink water, go out).  If you use more complex language, accompany your spoken language with a visual support (i.e., an object, picture symbol).

Be Flexible

If your child is having difficulty understanding you, adapt your message. Try using different words and speak at a slower rate. In addition, you may need to change your mode of communication.  For example, if you used spoken language, you may need to incorporate gestures and/or visual supports.

Provide Enough Time to Process Information

Moments of silence can be uncomfortable and it is natural to feel an urge to eliminate the silence; however, it is important to give your child ample time to respond.  When you ask a question or see that your child wants to say something, count to ten in your head and give your child more time to respond.  In addition, watch for any sound or body movement by your child.  When this occurs, respond promptly.  The promptness of your response will help your child feel successful and understand the back and forth or communication.

Utilize Visual Supports

Visuals supports work for many individuals with communication difficulties. Visual supports can be photographs, drawings, objects, written words, or lists.  They can be used in many ways to enhance understanding. Individuals with special needs often develop stronger visual skills than auditory skills.  Visual supports allow them to use this visual strength to process, organize, remember, and respond to information.  Visual supports can be used in isolation to represent single words or actions, in stories, timetables or schedules to help with routines, and as additional cues to spoken language to increase understanding.

Do Not Force Language

Unfortunately, you cannot control when or how your child will respond to your question.  During times of silence, expand your child’s receptive language by commenting about the environment or talking to them about what they are doing.  In addition, provide a model for your child to provide a response. Furthermore, remember that asking your child to say a word does not mean that they understand what they are saying.  As a result, when possible, pair spoken language with visual supports.

Resources

Helping Your Child with Autism Develop Social Communication Skills

http://www.speechtherapyct.com/whats_new/Helping%20Your%20Child%20with%20Autism%20Develop%20Social%20Communication%20Skills.pdf

The Power of Using Everyday Routines to Promote Young Children’s Language and Social Skills

http://www.hanen.org/Helpful-Info/Articles/Power-of-Using-Everyday-Routines.aspx

How Do Visual Aids Help Special Needs Kids?

http://everydaylife.globalpost.com/visual-aids-special-needs-kids-12313.html