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