Communication goes well beyond using one’s voice to get wants, needs and ideas across to others. Communication can be a computer or device speaking for you, use of sign language, exchanging pictures (PECS), or non-verbal body language. Everyone deserves a “voice” to share their thoughts, feelings, and ideas. Communication breakdown occurs when our thoughts, feelings and ideas are not being understood by others, which in turn can cause frustration and outbursts. As we celebrate Speech-Language-Hearing Month in May, Mobile Therapy Centers of America wants to help educate others on various modes of communication.
AAC offers a mode of communication without using one’s voice. One example of a basic mode of AAC is having an array of pictures printed on one sheet of paper for an individual to point to for communicating their wants and needs. Another example is using a Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) where you have individual pictures printed out which are then handed to another person to communicate. Ipad’s and tablets are also a great resource for AAC as there are various apps that can be downloaded ranging in price. There are also dedicated AAC devices which can be purchased with the help of a Speech-Language Pathologist. These are longer term devices that come with support for both the software and device itself. Our team of Speech Therapists at Mobile Therapy Centers helps find the best mode of AAC, from basic to high-tech, based on individual needs.
Using sign language or other non-verbal signals as a mode of communication is also a very helpful tool in engaging with others. When our Speech Therapists at Mobile Therapy Centers start working with a child who is non-verbal, or has a limited expressive vocabulary, we can start with teaching them simple signs to help communicate during interactions with peers, parents, staff or teachers. Signs such as “more,” “help,” and “please” go a long way in our daily lives.
Research has proven that use of other modes of communication actually increases verbal speech and language development. Our therapists at Mobile Therapy Centers have witnessed this increase in verbal speech and language first hand over the years and the excitement is unsurmountable.
A free speech and language screening through Mobile Therapy Centers allows our therapists to speak with parents and teachers and engage with their child on an individual basis. It allows the therapist to then share information with parents to let them know what is developmentally appropriate, as well as provide suggestions for home and in the classroom to continue to support and further the child’s development.
Happy National Speech-Language-Hearing Month from all of us here at MTC!
SCHEDULE SERVICES AT MOBILE THERAPY CENTERS OF AMERICA
If you have any questions regarding our services, please call us at 800-977-9072 to schedule a FREE consultation/screening
Elaina is a part of our MTC Occupational Therapy Department and received an education from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, McHenry County College, and Husson University. She has a strong passion for working with both animals and children. Elaina has always wanted to incorporate both of these passions into her career and is incredibly excited to bring Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) to Mobile Therapy Centers!
Rocky is an Australian Mountain Doodle who loves to learn, play, and meet new people. Rocky joined our MTC team when he was just 8 weeks old and has been training to support the clients of MTC from day one. His kind and loving nature makes him the perfect match for Animal-Assisted Therapy, and Rocky can not wait to meet all his new friends through the MTC AAT program!