Total communication approach

What is communication?

Communication is the process of sharing information, ideas, thoughts, feelings, and needs with other people. This can happen through spoken language, as well as through other means such as gesture, facial expression, signing, pictures, or communication aids. Communication enables us to express ourselves and understand others.

 

Communicating differently

Some people communicate without speech, or without using speech as their primary means. Terms such as ‘non-speaking’ and ‘non-verbal’ are used to describe this. This often applies to children and young people with SEND. However, communication is not limited to talking; a person who does not speak may still communicate effectively through the other means that work better for them. 
Children communicating in different ways - Speech and Language UK: Changing young lives

 

Total communication

“Total communication is an approach based on valuing all means of communication equally. No single form of communication is valued above others and the aim is for individuals with communication difficulties to communicate in whichever way, or combination of ways, works for them.”

• Multi-modal communication means using lots of communication methods alongside each other, such as signing, pointing to pictures and speaking.
• A Total Communication Environment should include pictures displayed around the home or setting, everyone signing to each other, communication systems readily available, and accessible information about each individual’s personal communication needs and preferences.

Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust

 

How can I support my child? 

 

What is AAC?

AAC stands for ‘augmentative and alternative communication’.

• Augmentative = supporting spoken language  
• Alternative = instead of spoken language  

AAC is an umbrella term used for a wide range of communication means that might be used to support speech or instead of speech.

Paper-based AAC includes systems such as communication keyrings, communication boards, communication books, photo/symbol exchange, objects of reference, eye-gaze communication boards.

Powered AAC includes iPads, tablets, and dedicated devices with a voice output, which run communication programmes.

Switch-based AAC includes battery operated switches with a voice output.

Unaided communication is a form of AAC that relies only on the individual’s body and natural communication methods, such as body language, gesture, facial expression and signing.

AAC is used by people who are pre-verbal/non-speaking, have learning disabilities and/or have unclear speech.

AAC does not affect speech development! AAC can actually support speech and language development.

The best way of supporting AAC use is through Aided Language Stimulation (a sort of modelling). This means using the person’s AAC ourselves whenever we speak. This shows the AAC user how to use their system without putting pressure on the person to use it themselves! It normalises AAC use for everyone around the person and you get to experience what it’s like to use AAC.