Did you know that it’s estimated that 40% of children with autism are nonverbal? Did you know that approximately 40% of our students with autism are nonverbal, at least when they come to us? Or that other struggles are far more complex than articulation? Communication deficits lead the way with what makes life with autism and other developmental diagnoses so challenging. That’s why it is essential that our students receive the services and supports they need to learn to communicate. Here’s the blog spot to share our Speech and Language stories with you.
Recent Stories.....
Assistive Technology: Empowering Non-speakers in Speech Therapy Sessions 4.18.24
In our speech therapy sessions, assistive technology plays a pivotal role in empowering non-speakers, offering them vital tools for communication beyond articulation. Beyond the traditional focus on speech sounds, our sessions delve deeper, encompassing a comprehensive approach to communication. We go above and beyond to instill in children the fundamental concept of communication and equip them with the skills to effectively convey their thoughts, needs, and desires. Through innovative assistive technology solutions, we provide non-speakers with alternative means of expression, fostering independence, confidence, and meaningful interaction in their daily lives.
Leprechaun Traps, 3.15.24
Mrs. Brittany writes, “We made leprechaun trap snacks in speech groups this week.” Groups embarked on this creative culinary adventure by crafting leprechaun trap snacks. Each delightful treat was meticulously constructed using graham crackers, pretzels, and marshmallows, transforming group time into an opportunity for the children to engage in communication skills and collaboration as they worked together to design and construct their leprechaun trap snacks. Students used language skills to request and describe their ingredients and designs, and to share their excitement for the activity.
Toys and Device Go Hand In Hand 3.4.24
Rosie and her student sit side by side at a table in a favorite therapy spot. Rosie is working on directions and prepositions – put the truck on, put it behind, in, in front of, and so on.
The truck and the garage, among other items, are of high interest to this child, and in learning to use an assistive technology device to understand these placements, using high-interest materials is of utmost importance.
Communication Rights, by Brittany Countryman Fountain 2.27.24
Increased Opportunities, by Brittany Countryman 2.20.24
AAC provides more opportunities to participate in conversation and activities. Using a SGD provides a consistent and immediate verbal model, giving the individual ownership of their own voice. Voice output helps the user communicate even when their communication partner isn’t looking. Just like when we speak to someone who isn’t looking at us. This is different from picture exchange in which the individual relies on their communication partner to provide the verbal model (e.g. the person gives or points to a picture of a swing, you say “swing”).
From P’s parent- “The part that the speech generating device has allowed is for us to talk while I’m driving, a lower tech AAC device like PECs (picture exchange) would be nearly impossible, but there are many times she’s been very clear about what specific song she wants, or who she wants to call over bluetooth and talk to, or that she wants Dunkin. My favorite story is her cracking jokes, asking to use the elevator at home before walking up the two steps it takes to get into our house and then throwing her head back, laughing at herself. The device has truly changed her world and our lives.”
These devices are life-changing for everyone. Imagine you lost your voice and needed to have a conversation with someone. It’s easy to get into a routine of picking up on the way an individual communicates and “knowing” what they want, need, or feel. But providing them with the independence to make these needs known is a powerful thing.
Here are just a few Crossroads student examples of how a SGD has promoted independent communication:
P counts with her peers during calendar time at school
T was able to say trick or treat on Halloween last year
J asked for “more window” when she wanted to look outside
T asks his parents for french fries when they drive past a Burger King
A made animal sounds during “Old Macdonald had a Farm”
P talks to her doctor and nurse during checkups.
SGDs by Brittany Countryman 2.11.24
She Spells Shells! 2.2.24
Meet, C, one of our incredible young communicators! Despite being non-verbal so far, she fearlessly navigates her communication device. When she couldn’t find a PEC for “shells” to adorn the fish tank, she took matters into her own hands. With determination, she referred to the menu on the wall and spelled out the word “shells.” Her ingenuity and resourcefulness showcase the power of alternative communication methods. Every step forward is a victory!
Brittany’s Crusade to Educate on AAC | 2.1.24
Communication deficits pose significant hurdles for our students, making it crucial for them to receive tailored services and support to learn and enhance their communication skills. Recently, Ms. Brittany, one of the speech therapists here, is not only guiding children with autism but also began a course of educating their peers without autism on understanding Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to foster inclusivity and understanding.
Cultivating Communication Through Play | 10.5.23
In the bustling world of Crossroads, a young boy’s journey to improve his communication skills is unfolding through playful exploration with his dedicated speech therapist. Together, they embark on an enchanting adventure with a Little People treehouse, where “V” practices the skill of describing spatial relationships. With every figurine placed carefully in, on, under, or beside different parts of the treehouse, he not only refines his ability to express himself but also unlocks the doors to better understanding his environment.
Communication Resources for a Happy Halloween | 10.27.23
Thanks to our speech therapists for 2 resources that you can use to give your child access to the communication skills they need for trick-or-treating. Print them out, or use them electronically, it’s up to you!
AACTrickorTreatBraceletSwitchandBucketlabels
Trick Or Treating Social Story
Finding His Voice | 11.6.23
In a touching triumph of communication, a young boy has discovered the transformative power of his Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device. It’s a remarkable tool that has opened doors to his desires and the joy of expressing them.
One day last week, he surprised his therapist when he navigated his AAC device and requested a “jelly donut.” When informed that there were no donuts but an abundance of jelly and bagels, he didn’t falter; instead, he requested a “jelly bagel.” With determination, he embarked on a culinary adventure, accompanied by his devoted therapist.
Together, they gathered the ingredients, spreading jelly onto a fresh bagel with precision and care. Then, this young explorer arranged a picnic on the floor, the perfect setting for his delectable creation. With every bite of his self-made jelly bagel, he savored not only the flavors but the sweet taste of newfound independence and the power of communication. It’s a story of resilience, innovation, and the incredible achievements made possible through the gift of technology and supportive guidance.
Cultivating Communication Through Play | 10.5.23
In the bustling world of Crossroads, a young boy’s journey to improve his communication skills is unfolding through playful exploration with his dedicated speech therapist. Together, they embark on an enchanting adventure with a Little People treehouse, where “V” practices the skill of describing spatial relationships. With every figurine placed carefully in, on, under, or beside different parts of the treehouse, he not only refines his ability to express himself but also unlocks the doors to better understanding his environment.
Operation Speech | 8.14.23
If you haven’t noticed, Crossroads employees take fun seriously! Making learning reinforcing is of utmost importance, otherwise, it won’t stick. Here we have Mrs. Brittany playing a game of Operation with “D” a 5-year-old student. As they take turns, she asks him questions and issues instructions to spark his engagement in the goals she is addressing with him this summer. Just another example of how kids are making progress in Speech sessions!
Ice Cream Soup | 7.25.23
Overall, group activities create a dynamic social environment that fosters observational learning, social reinforcement, and cooperative behavior among preschoolers, leading to the modeling of various skills and behaviors from one child to another. It is important for educators and caregivers to facilitate positive interactions during group activities, reinforcing pro-social behaviors and guiding children toward healthy and constructive modeling. Last week, Speech Therapists, Brittany, Sarah, and Amy did a large speech group where they incorporated all of the above. After reading the book Ice Cream Soup by Ann Ingalls, they made their own ice cream soup out of paper, string, pipe cleaners, and other trimmings. The kids worked on skills like answering wh- questions, yes/no questions, articulation, grammar, turn-taking, and, as you can see, they also had a deliciously fun time together.
Unlocking Communication with Assistive Technology | 5.31.23
Communication is a fundamental aspect of human connection and expression. For so many of the children here, the ability to communicate thoughts, needs, and feelings can be a significant challenge. However, with the help of assistive technology, a world of possibilities opens up, offering these children a voice to be heard. Through innovative tools and devices, these youngsters can unlock a pathway to effective communication and self-advocacy.
The positive impact of assistive technology shines through the journey of “A”. With Mrs. Brittany’s unwavering determination and the aid of assistive technology tools, A has been learning to express her desires, share her experiences, and build meaningful connections. Armed with her device, she has learned to express herself in extraordinary ways. With joyful excitement, she now asks to see the fish, to feed them and to add rocks to the tank. As we champion accessibility and inclusivity, we celebrate the power of assistive technology in empowering individuals like A to find their voice, embrace their potential, and enrich the world with their unique perspectives.