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Communication intentions are the reasons why a person uses language, gestures, or other behaviors to express their thoughts and needs. It’s about using signals on purpose to change how others think or act.
Why are Communication Intentions important for kids?
They help parents understand a child’s needs, emotions, and thoughts, even without complete verbal communication.
Can rewards boost a child's ability to convey their Communication Intentions?
Absolutely! Rewards motivate kids to articulate their needs and feelings, reinforcing positive communication habits.
How can tools like visual schedules aid in understanding Communication Intentions?
Visual schedules provide clear cues, helping kids express their daily needs and intentions in a structured manner.
Can Communication Intentions change over time for a child with special needs?
Yes, a child’s Communication Intentions can evolve as they grow, develop new skills, and gain a better understanding of their own needs and emotions.
Communication intentions refer to the underlying goals or motives that drive an individual’s use of language and other communicative behaviors to convey their thoughts, needs, desires, or emotions to others. Communicative intent involves the deliberate and planned use of expressive signals, whether verbal or nonverbal, to influence the behavior, attitudes, or beliefs of communication partners. Research has shown that difficulties with communicative intent are common in children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities.
Communication intentions are the driving force behind effective communication. Here are some examples of how they work:
| Intention | Example |
|---|---|
| Requesting | Pointing to a desired object or using words like “want” or “more” |
| Commenting | Saying “big dog!” or gesturing excitedly towards an interesting sight |
| Protesting | Shaking head “no” or pushing away an unwanted item |
When kids learn to express their intentions clearly, they can better navigate their world and build stronger relationships. With guidance and practice, children with communication challenges can develop the skills to make their intentions known.
This post was originally published on Aug. 11, 2023. It was updated on April 23, 2024.
