Enhancing Communication through Visual Supports: Insights from an AAC Expert

During a previous Coach2Coach interview with Rachel Madel, MA, CCC-SLP, a dedicated speech-language pathologist specializing in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), we explored the significant impact that early AAC can make for children. Rachel, known for her expertise in technology and AAC, shared valuable insights into the use of visual supports and strategies to enhance communication for children earlier, particularly those with complex communication needs.Some of the biggest takeaways  from this interview included: 

Prioritizing Initiation and Language Modeling: Rachel emphasized two key priorities when using visual supports with young children: initiation and language modeling. Initiation, she explained, is a critical aspect often overlooked in early intervention. Rather than focusing solely on accuracy, Rachel encourages celebrating any form of initiation as a win.

Additionally, she underscores the importance of teaching communication partners, especially parents, how to effectively model language on the child's device, switch, coreboard, etc., to lay the groundwork for a child's communication development.

The Significance of Motivation: Rachel highlighted the paramount importance of motivation in communication, particularly for children with complex communication needs. Recognizing that every child is motivated by something, she stressed the need to identify and leverage these motivators to facilitate communication. Rachel emphasized the role of caregivers in understanding and responding to the child's motivations, whether it be expressing preferences or protesting activities, to foster meaningful communication exchanges.

Low Vision Strategies and Considerations: Exploring strategies for children with low vision, Rachel addressed the challenges faced by those with cortical visual impairment (CVI). She emphasized the need for universal low vision strategies that benefit all children, such as utilizing high-contrast visuals and dimming lights to optimize visual access. Rachel highlighted the importance of early detection and intervention for CVI, noting characteristics such as inaccurate selections and scrolling behavior on devices, which may indicate visual difficulties. For excellent low vision strategies in EI, you can also check out Tara Tompaii's Instagram here and a blog post on her previous Coach2Coach interview. https://www.instagram.com/vision_earlyintervention/

Motor Planning and Visual Supports: Rachel emphasized the significance of motor planning in accessing visual supports, likening it to the seamless navigation of smartphone interfaces. Consistency in the placement of icons and visual elements aids in the development of motor plans, reducing cognitive load and facilitating communication. By maintaining a consistent layout, children can focus on expressing themselves rather than navigating the visual interface.

Rachel's Expert insights shed light on the multifaceted role of visual supports in enhancing communication for children with diverse needs. By prioritizing initiation, leveraging motivation, implementing low vision strategies, and promoting motor planning, caregivers and practitioners can create an inclusive communication environment that empowers children to express themselves effectively.

As we navigate the complexities of communication development, Rachel's expertise inspires us to embrace the power of visual supports in unlocking the communicative potential of every child.

Watch Rachel's complete interview where she also gives feedback on two home visit videos in our Early Intervention Expert Series here. 

Follow more from Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/rachelmadelslp/