Your Child With Autism: When Is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) an Appropriate Option?
By Cafiero, Joanne M.; Meyer, Ann; Exceptional Parent Magazine, Vol. 38, No. 4, pp. 28-30Publication Date: April 2008
Article discusses the role of aided alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) for improving communication skills in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Examples of aided AAC given are communication boards, speech generating devices, keyboards, email, and instant messaging. Aspects of ASD such as preference for visual stimuli; difficulty with complex stimuli, motor planning and social interactions; interest in inanimate objects; and difficulties with behavior are matched to the functions of aided AAC including its visual medium, use of gradually-increasing stimulus complexity, requirement of simple motor movements, role as a buffer and bridge between communication partners, use of communication devices, as well as its provision of a way to have needs met, thus preempting difficult behaviors. Research case studies are cited where students provided with BIGmacks or SuperTalkers demonstrated a significant increase in expressive communication skills. The article also presents a hypothetical case study of a 4-year-old boy with ASD and behavior difficulties who is aided with a BIGmack single-message device announcing he wants to go outside and a communication board created with the Boardmaker graphic-symbols software program enabling him to communicate food- and daily-activity preferences.
Assistive Products Discussed: BIGMACK COMMUNICATOR
BOARDMAKER (INTERNATIONAL)
SUPERTALKER
Published by: EP Global Communications (Website:http://www.eparent.com)
