Alternative and Assistive Communication

With regard to facilitating Angie’s communication, Dr. Schwartz advocated use of the Picture Exchange System (see description in Angie’s Success Story). More important, Dr. Schwartz did not dictate this decision. Rather, she facilitated and informed team discussion of a range of alternative and assistive communication (AAC) products the parents and teachers had heard about. With her guidance, team was able to analyze and compare a variety of devices in relation to Angie’s specific needs and abilities. These included “higher-tech” devices like the Dyna-mite and Touch-Talker and lower tech and no-tech interventions such as manual communication (signing).

Typically, deciding on the best alternative communication system can be a difficult process; this was no exception. The team’s concluded that the Velcro cards and pictures of the PECS would be most efficient for now, i.e. that they would support all of the present goals for her communication with minimal new technology to learn and at a very modest cost. They recognized that if Angie becomes much more fluent and sophisticated, other devices may become appropriate to meet her needs.

Angie has, in fact, continued to acquire new developmentally appropriate skills in language, social skills, functional skills, and pre-academic skills. She now enjoys interacting with the other children and has been actively using the PECS. She can be seen regularly imitating, sustaining eye contact with teachers, and continuing to develop communication skills. Progress is slow and regression is a constant possibility. She requires intensive one-to-one instruction to maintain these skills. Ongoing video conferencing with Dr. Schwartz has contributed to the development of her IEP as Angie’s transition into her kindergarten class continues.