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Verbal Routines

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Summary

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Verbal routines are words that are repeated predictably during an activity. Verbal routines can help children who have difficulty with learning routines and transitions. They can also help children know what to expect during an activity and provide opportunities for turn-taking.

Table of Contents

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Frequently Asked Question

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Why do individuals with special needs use verbal routines?

Verbal routines can provide comfort and predictability in social situations and help individuals with special needs develop language skills and social interaction.

How can I support my child with verbal routines?

Using predictable and repetitive language, encouraging participation, and varying the routine can help individuals with special needs feel more comfortable and confident in social situations.

Can verbal routines improve over time?

With early intervention and support, individuals with special needs can improve their communication and socialization skills over time, but long-term prognosis can vary depending on the individual’s specific needs and diagnosis.

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Scientific Definition

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Verbal routines refer to the repetitive use of language by a child or individual with special needs. It includes phrases or sentences repeated consistently, such as using the same greeting or asking the same question repeatedly. Verbal routines can be a form of self-stimulation or self-soothing for some individuals with special needs and may also help them develop language skills and social interaction. However, excessive use of verbal routines can also hinder communication and socialization and may be a sign of underlying developmental or neurological disorders.

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Real World Example of Verbal Routines

Susie, a five-year-old girl with Down syndrome, sometimes feels nervous in social situations. She tends to repeat certain phrases and echo questions instead of answering them. To help Susie feel more comfortable and confident, her parents and teachers have introduced verbal routines. Here’s how it works:

  1. Simple and predictable language: They use easy and repetitive phrases like “Good morning, Susie!” or “What color is your shirt?”
  2. Encouraging participation: Susie is encouraged to participate by responding or pointing to her shirt, for example.
  3. Adding variety: They introduce new questions or comments like “What did you have for breakfast?” or “I like your shoes!” to keep the routine interesting.

As Susie becomes more confident, her repetitive language decreases, and she can initiate conversations using the verbal routines she has learned. Although she may still rely on them in certain situations, she can engage with others and express her thoughts and feelings more effectively. Verbal routines can benefit individuals with special needs, helping them gain confidence and build meaningful relationships.

How Does Verbal Routines Work?

Verbal routines are structured and predictable ways of communication for individuals with special needs. Here are some common signs and instances of verbal routines:

  1. Repetitive phrases: Repeating the same phrases like “What’s your name?” or “How are you?” over and over.
  2. Scripted language: Using language memorized from books, TV shows, or movies in inappropriate situations.
  3. Echolalia: Repeating words or phrases heard recently or in the past, either immediately or with a delay. It can serve as self-stimulation or a means of communication.
  4. Comfort and predictability: Verbal routines offer comfort and predictability in social situations, allowing individuals to know what to expect and how to respond.
  5. Difficulty with social interaction: Excessive reliance on verbal routines can hinder spontaneous conversation and appropriate responses to social cues.

For instance, a child with autism may repeat a favorite line from a cartoon or constantly ask the same question seeking reassurance. Similarly, a child with Down syndrome may initiate a conversation using a scripted line but struggle with unexpected questions or comments.

 

This post was originally published on April 14, 2023. It was updated on Jan. 22,2024.

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