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Communication Any Way
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Situation
I have a student who uses a communication book. At times he will just point to an item on the snack table instead of using his book in response to a question. Sometimes he will indicate yes or no with a headshake instead of using his book. We keep prompting but then he becomes frustrated and displays other behaviors such as throwing materials or yelling. How can we increase his communication book usage?
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Summary
If a student uses another means of communication that is clearly conveyed, accept it. Many times the form a student uses may be a more ‘normalized’ form. Do not force a student to use a display if he/she quickly and efficiently communicates through another means. Communication is the goal.
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Definition
Communication Any Way simply means acceptance and responding immediately to a clear communicative intent by a student.
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Quick Facts
- Child's Age: 0-2, 3-5, 6-10, 11-13, 14-17, 18+
- Planning Effort: Low
- Difficulty Level: Easy
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Pre-requisites
none
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Process
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If a student nods his head to a question RATHER than using a communication device – immediately respond to the communication.
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You can then model the use of a device if it is being utilized – “Oh you do want the crackers?” and use the device but provide the item.
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Documents and Related Resources
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