Augmentative Communications
Our speech/language pathologists assist students in developing the use of alternate means of communication. This approach to therapy is appropriate when speech is severely impaired and cannot be used as the primary means of communication. After gathering input from the student, family, teacher and other professionals involved with the student to identify communication needs, our speech/language pathologist will:
- design and fabricate appropriate boards/books for the student
- select and/or recommend appropriate speech output prostheses (electronic communication system) and/or computer system
- along with other members of the classroom team, teach the student sign language or a gestural system
- train the student to use the recommended system
- consult with other members of the classroom team to maximize opportunities for the student to practice functional use of the system
- train families and significant others in the use of communication systems
- provide guidance to the classroom team to offer a total communication experience
