Communication: Is the ability to be understood, we use speech and language to communicate. , we use language to interact with others. Language involves organising our thoughts and ideas, using appropriate vocabulary and grammar sentence structure ready for talking
Speech: is the ability to combine sounds together to say words.
“Parents should talk and sing to their babies as much as possible or use infant-directed speech like nursery rhymes because it will make a difference to language outcome.”
Non verbal communication:
Non-verbal communication is a way of conveying messages without the use of words. It involves various forms of body language, gestures, facial expressions, and other non-verbal cues to express thoughts, emotions, and intentions.
5 Ways Children Who Are Non-Speaking Communicate
Children who are non-speaking communicate through body language, sounds and movements, including:
Sign language: Some children can communicate without words by using hand gestures in sign language.
Makaton: Makaton is a language system used to communicate through signs and symbols.
Motor gestures: Children can point to things they want or clap or blink to communicate an idea.
Touch: A child may touch your hand to get your attention or face to express affection.
Sounds: Squealing may indicate happiness, and a grunt can mean they are stressed.
Strategies to communicate with a non verbal child
Communicating with a non-verbal child requires patience, creativity, and a variety of strategies. Here are some effective approaches to consider:
1. Use Visual Supports
Pictures and Symbols: Use picture cards or visual schedules to represent activities, objects, or feelings.
Gestures and Sign Language: Teach and use simple gestures or signs to communicate basic needs and feelings.
2. Technology and Apps
Communication Devices: Utilize speech-generating devices or tablets with communication apps that allow the child to select images or words to express themselves.
Apps: There are many apps designed to aid communication for non-verbal children, such as Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, and others.
3. Body Language and Facial Expressions
Pay close attention to the child's body language and facial expressions. These can provide valuable clues about their needs and emotions.
Use your own body language and facial expressions to communicate in a clear and exaggerated manner.
4. Create a Communication-Friendly Environment
Ensure the environment is conducive to communication by minimizing distractions and providing a calm, organized space.
Have communication tools easily accessible, whether they are pictures, devices, or other aids.
5. Consistent Routines and Predictable Schedules
Implement consistent routines to help the child understand and anticipate daily activities.
Use visual schedules to outline the day's events, which can reduce anxiety and improve communication.
6. Use Repetition and Consistency
Consistently use the same words, gestures, or signs for specific actions or objects to help the child make associations and learn.
Repetition reinforces learning and helps with memory retention.
7. Encourage Social Interaction
Engage in play-based activities that promote interaction, such as turn-taking games or cooperative play.
Encourage peer interactions and provide support during social activities.
8. Model Communication
Demonstrate how to use communication tools and strategies by modelling them in everyday situations.
Speak clearly and at a slower pace to help the child understand and follow along.
9. Positive Reinforcement
Offer praise and rewards for attempts to communicate, even if they are not perfect. Positive reinforcement encourages continued efforts.
Celebrate small achievements to boost the child's confidence.
10. Work with Professionals
Collaborate with speech-language therapists, occupational therapists, and other professionals who can provide specialized strategies and support.
Attend workshops or training sessions to learn more about effective communication techniques.
Practical Example:
Using a Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS):
It teaches a child that he will receive something in exchange for a picture given to the supporting adult/ parent
Introduce a picture of a favourite toy.
Encourage the child to hand you the picture in exchange for the toy.
Gradually expand the system to include more pictures representing different needs and activities. Here are some ideas to encourage nonverbal communication in children12:
Play games that involve guessing to help children tune in to nonverbal communication.
Watch a TV show with the sound off.
Take turns at dinner practising different tones of voice.
Draw pictures of faces with your child, or use toys to act out emotions.
Model nonverbal communication yourself by using expressive hand gestures, clapping to give praise, pointing to the toy when you say ‘There’s your bear’, shaking your head when you say ‘No’ and nodding it when you say ‘Yes’2.
Nonverbal communication includes things like facial expressions, eye contact, personal space, hand gestures, and physical touch like a hug.
Remember, every child is unique, and it may take time to find the most effective methods. Patience, understanding, and a willingness to try different strategies will go a long way in supporting a non-verbal child's communication skills
Комментарии