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What is Functional Communication?

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Summary

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Functional communication allows people to share their thoughts and feelings, even if talking is hard. It can be speaking, using signs with their hands, showing pictures, or using special tools. Kids with special needs need to learn the best way to communicate to make friends and do well in school. Everyone works together to help these kids practice talking and listening, and we should always cheer them on.

Frequently Asked Question

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Why is functional communication important for kids with special needs?

It helps kids with special needs express their needs, wants, and feelings, making it easier to make friends and succeed in school.

How can I support my child's functional communication development?

Work with teachers, speech-language pathologists, and other professionals to create plans that help your child learn and practice communication skills that work best for them.

Can technology help with functional communication?

Yes, technology like tablets, AAC devices, and apps like Goally can provide fun and engaging ways for kids to learn and practice functional communication skills.

Scientific Definition

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Functional communication is talking or sharing ideas that help people do daily tasks, make choices, and connect with others. It can include speaking, sign language, pictures, or devices that allow people to talk. For kids with special needs, it is crucial to improve their ability to communicate in ways that work best for them. This helps them feel more confident, make friends, and learn better at school. Teachers, speech-language pathologists, and parents work together to create plans that help kids learn functional communication skills. These plans include teaching new words, using simple sentences, and practicing good listening. Kids can better express their needs, wants, and feelings by focusing on these skills. Each person is different, so finding the best communication method is essential. Encourage and support their efforts, and celebrate their progress along the way.

Treatment to Help with the Symptom Functional Communication

Treating the symptoms of functional communication involves implementing strategies that support and enhance communication skills. Here are some scenarios and strategies that can be implemented:

  • Create a communication-rich environment: Surround your child with visual cues, such as labeled objects and pictures, to support their understanding and expression of words.
  • Use visual supports: Utilize visual schedules, charts, and visual aids to help your child follow routines, understand expectations, and communicate their needs.
  • Encourage social interactions: Arrange playdates or structured activities where your child can practice social communication skills with peers, such as turn-taking, listening, and initiating conversations.
  • Implement AAC systems: Explore augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools, such as communication boards or apps, to enhance your child’s ability to express themselves if verbal communication is challenging.
  • Provide modeling and reinforcement: Model proper communication techniques and provide positive reinforcement when your child attempts to communicate effectively.

With consistent treatment and support, children with functional communication challenges can make significant progress. They may develop improved communication skills, feel more confident in expressing themselves, and have better social interactions.

Conditions Associated with Functional Communication

Introduction: Certain conditions may impact an individual’s functional communication abilities. Understanding these conditions can help parents support their children effectively.

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Individuals with ASD often experience challenges in functional communication and may require specialized interventions and strategies.
  • Down Syndrome: People with Down Syndrome may have speech and language delays, making it important to focus on improving their functional communication skills.
  • Apraxia of Speech: This motor speech disorder affects the ability to coordinate the movements necessary for speech, requiring targeted therapy for functional communication development.
  • Cerebral Palsy: Some individuals with cerebral palsy may have difficulties with muscle control and coordination, affecting their functional communication abilities.
  • Developmental Language Disorder (DLD): Children with DLD struggle with language development, including functional communication skills, and may benefit from intervention and support.

Recognizing the conditions associated with functional communication allows parents to better understand their child’s communication needs. Goally, our tablet, helps kids with functional communication through fun apps like digital visual schedules, AAC, and gamified learning. It also teaches important skills like emotional regulation, executive functioning, and social skills through videos.

 

This post was originally published on April 3, 2023. It was updated on July 10, 2023.