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Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)

Teaches students communication through pictures. used for nonspeakers or those with limited speech.

Example: struggling to make verbal requests, PECS uses pictures of desired items or needs to indicate students wants.

Implementation:

Teach student to exchange pictures for designated items

increase the complexity and introduce differenciated pictures and incorporate sentence structure

use with consistent across all settings and with fidelity introducing various people or peers.

Evaluate:

Staff would monitor frequency and accuracy of documented picture exchanges. Analyzing if a student generalizes the skill in all scenarios and develops independent communication.

(PECS®: An Evidence-Based Practice -, 2023)

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Developed by Andy Bondy, PhD & Lori Frost, MS, CCC-SLP

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Social Stories

Provide descriptive scenarios describing social situations and appropriate responses to social interactions. Helping students understand social language cues and expectations in their environment.

Example: A student who struggles with impulsive behavior can read a social story about patience, calm body, and turn taking.

Implementation:

Making a personalized story based on a students area of need.

Read the story with the student regularly, ie prompting for a specific challenge

model appropriate response to isolated incidents

reenacting if necessary

encourage practice of the skill

reflect

Evaluation: Narrative or data driven observation specific to skill learned. Collecting data based on frequency of appropriate response.

(Social Stories and Autism, n.d.)

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Understanding Social Stories and Autism

In the realm of autism, social stories have proven to be a valuable tool for enhancing social understanding and communication skills. They provide individuals with autism a structured way to comprehend and navigate various social situations. Let's delve into what social stories are and why they hold significant importance for individuals with autism.

What Are Social Stories?

https://www.verywellhealth.com/

Social stories are personalized narratives that depict specific social situations, events, or behaviors. These stories are designed to help individuals with autism understand and respond appropriately to various social interactions and expectations. Social stories typically include descriptive sentences or paragraphs accompanied by relevant visuals to aid comprehension. They are often written in a simple and concise manner, using clear and concrete language.

The purpose of social stories is to provide individuals with autism a framework for understanding social cues, expectations, and appropriate responses. By presenting information in a structured and visual format, social stories help individuals with autism gain insight into social situations that may otherwise be challenging to comprehend.

The Importance of Social Stories for Individuals with Autism

Social stories play a crucial role in supporting individuals with autism, as they address the unique social and communication difficulties associated with the condition. Here are some key reasons why social stories are important for individuals with autism:

1. Enhancing Social Understanding: Social stories provide individuals with autism an opportunity to learn about social cues, expected behaviors, and appropriate responses. By presenting information in a clear and structured manner, social stories help individuals with autism grasp the intricacies of social interactions.

2. Reducing Anxiety and Increasing Predictability: Individuals with autism often experience anxiety or uncertainty in unfamiliar social situations. Social stories offer a sense of predictability and familiarity by preparing them for what to expect. This can help alleviate anxiety and facilitate smoother transitions.

3. Promoting Self-Advocacy: Through social stories, individuals with autism can develop self-advocacy skills by understanding their own needs, preferences, and boundaries. This empowers them to communicate their needs effectively and seek support when necessary.

4. Facilitating Generalization: Social stories provide individuals with autism the opportunity to generalize social skills across different contexts. By exposing them to a range of scenarios, social stories help individuals with autism transfer their acquired social knowledge to real-life situations.

By harnessing the power of social stories, individuals with autism can develop social skills, enhance their understanding of social situations, and navigate the complexities of social interactions with confidence and ease.

How to Create Meaningful Social Stories

Creating meaningful social stories for individuals with autism requires careful consideration and attention to detail. By following a few key steps, you can develop social stories that effectively address the target behavior or situation and provide valuable guidance and support. Here are three essential steps to help you create meaningful social stories:

Identify the Target Behavior or Situation

The first step in creating a social story is to identify the target behavior or situation that you want to address. It could be a challenging social interaction, a daily routine, or a specific event. By pinpointing the specific behavior or situation, you can focus on creating a story that directly addresses the individual's needs and provides guidance on appropriate social responses.

For example, if the target behavior is having a difficult time transitioning to a new school, the social story can emphasize the importance of adapting to new environments, meeting new friends, and seeking support from teachers or other trusted individuals. By addressing the specific behavior or situation, the social story becomes more relevant and impactful.

Write in a Clear and Concise Manner

When creating a social story, it's crucial to write in a clear and concise manner that is easy to understand for individuals with autism. Use simple and straightforward language, avoiding complex sentences or jargon. Break down the information into smaller, manageable chunks to facilitate comprehension.

Consider using visual supports such as pictures or symbols alongside the text to enhance understanding. Visual aids can help individuals with autism better grasp the concepts being presented in the social story. Providing a clear and concise narrative ensures that the main message of the story is effectively communicated.

Incorporate Visual Supports and Structure

To make social stories more engaging and accessible, it's important to incorporate visual supports and structure. Visual supports can include pictures, drawings, or icons that illustrate key concepts or steps within the story. These visuals can enhance understanding and retention of information, especially for individuals who are visual learners.

Additionally, organizing the social story with a clear structure can help individuals with autism follow the narrative more easily. You can use headings, bullet points, or numbered lists to break down the story into smaller sections. This structure provides a clear roadmap and facilitates navigation through the story.

By incorporating visual supports and structure, you create a social story that is visually appealing and facilitates comprehension for individuals with autism.

Creating meaningful social stories requires careful planning and attention to detail. By identifying the target behavior or situation, writing in a clear and concise manner, and incorporating visual supports and structure, you can develop social stories that effectively support individuals with autism.

Tailoring Social Stories for Individuals with Autism

Creating meaningful social stories for individuals with autism requires careful consideration and personalization. By tailoring the content to meet the specific needs, preferences, and interests of the individual, you can enhance the effectiveness of the social story. Here are some key strategies to consider:

Consider Individual Needs and Preferences

When crafting a social story, it's important to take into account the individual needs and preferences of the person with autism. Consider their unique challenges, sensory sensitivities, and communication style. Tailor the story to address specific behaviors, situations, or skills that they are working on. By addressing their individual needs, you can make the story more relatable and engaging for them.

Use Personalized Language and Examples

To make the social story more meaningful, use personalized language and examples that resonate with the individual. Incorporate their name, pronouns, and specific details relevant to their daily life. This personal touch helps them connect with the story on a deeper level. For example, instead of using generic examples, use situations that the individual is likely to encounter in their own life.

Incorporate Interests and Motivations

To make the social story more engaging and motivating, incorporate the individual's interests and motivations. Identify what they enjoy, whether it's a favorite toy, activity, or character. Use these interests as a way to capture their attention and make the story more relatable. By incorporating their interests, you can increase their engagement and motivation to understand and follow the story.

It's essential to remember that social stories are highly individualized and should be tailored to meet the unique needs of each person with autism. By considering their needs, using personalized language, and incorporating their interests, you can create social stories that are more effective in promoting understanding and positive behavior.

Effective Strategies for Using Social Stories

To make the most of social stories as a tool for individuals with autism, it is important to implement effective strategies that maximize their impact. Here are three key strategies for utilizing social stories to their fullest potential:

Introduce and Explain the Social Story

When introducing a new social story, it is crucial to take the time to introduce and explain it to the individual with autism. This can be done in a calm and supportive manner, ensuring that they understand the purpose and relevance of the story. It may be helpful to read the story together, discussing the characters and the situations depicted. This initial introduction sets the foundation for understanding and engagement with the social story.

Reinforce and Review the Story Regularly

Consistency in reinforcing and reviewing social stories is essential for their effectiveness. Regular reinforcement of the story helps to solidify its message and reinforces the desired behavior or understanding. This can be done by reading the story together on a consistent schedule, such as daily or weekly. Repetition and consistency provide opportunities for the individual to internalize the information and apply it in real-life situations. It is important to remember that each individual is unique, so the frequency and duration of reinforcement may vary.

Provide Opportunities for Practice and Generalization

To enhance the effectiveness of social stories, it is crucial to provide opportunities for practice and generalization. Encourage the individual to apply the concepts and skills learned from the story in real-life situations. Support them in practicing the desired behaviors or strategies highlighted in the social story. This can be done in various settings, such as at home, school, or in the community. By creating opportunities for practice and generalization, individuals with autism can develop and strengthen their social skills and understanding.

By implementing these strategies, social stories become powerful tools for individuals with autism. They provide structure, guidance, and support for navigating social situations and behaviors. Remember to tailor the strategies to each individual's unique needs and preferences, as what works for one person may not work for another.

In addition to these strategies, it may be beneficial to explore other resources, such as books and websites that offer free social stories for autism. These resources can provide a wealth of additional social stories to address various situations and behaviors.

Remember, social stories are a valuable tool in supporting individuals with autism, but they should be used in conjunction with professional guidance and support. Consulting with professionals who specialize in autism can provide further insights and recommendations tailored to the individual's specific needs. For more guidance, consider reaching out to professionals who can offer support and assistance in creating and implementing social stories.

Examples of Social Stories for Common Situations

Social stories are a powerful tool for individuals with autism, helping them navigate various situations and develop appropriate social skills. Here are some examples of social stories tailored for common situations that individuals with autism may encounter.

Going to the Dentist

Introduction:

Going to the dentist is an important part of taking care of our teeth and keeping them healthy. This social story will help me understand what to expect when I visit the dentist.

Body:

When I go to the dentist, I will sit in the waiting area until it's my turn.

The dentist will call my name, and I will walk with them to the dental room.

The dentist will ask me to sit on the dental chair and will recline it.

They will wear a mask and gloves to keep everything clean and safe.

The dentist will gently examine my teeth using a small mirror and other tools.

They may clean my teeth using a special toothbrush and paste.

If I need any treatment, the dentist will explain it to me and make sure I understand.

The dentist will answer any questions I have, so I can feel comfortable.

Finally, I will leave the dentist's office with a clean and healthy smile.

Conclusion:

Going to the dentist is an important part of taking care of my teeth. The dentist and their team are there to help me have a healthy and happy smile.

Transitioning to a New School

Introduction:

Starting at a new school can feel exciting but also a little bit scary. This social story will help me understand what it's like to transition to a new school.

Body:

Before I start at the new school, I may visit it with my parents or guardian. This will help me become familiar with the building and meet some teachers and staff.

On my first day, I will go to the school office or a designated area to get my schedule and meet my teacher.

My teacher will introduce me to the class and show me around the classroom.

I will have the opportunity to meet new classmates and make new friends.

The school may have different rules and routines than my previous school. My teacher will explain them to me and help me follow them.

If I need help or have any questions, I can ask my teacher or the school staff.

Throughout the day, I will have breaks, lunchtime, and recess to relax and have fun.

Teachers and staff are there to support me and help me adjust to my new school.

Conclusion:

Starting at a new school can be an exciting adventure. I will have the opportunity to make new friends and learn new things. The teachers and staff will help me feel welcome and supported.

Going Grocery Shopping

Introduction:

Going grocery shopping is an essential part of taking care of ourselves and our families. This social story will help me understand what happens when we go grocery shopping.

Body:

Before going to the grocery store, Mom/Dad will make a list of the things we need to buy.

We will drive or walk to the grocery store together.

Once inside, we will get a shopping cart or basket to carry our groceries.

We will walk through the aisles, looking for the items on our list.

Mom/Dad will help me find the things we need and explain different products to me.

We will choose the items we want and put them in our cart or basket.

At the checkout counter, Mom/Dad will pay for the groceries.

We may need to wait in line for a little while.

Finally, we will leave the grocery store and go back home with our groceries.

Conclusion:

Going grocery shopping is an important task that helps us get the things we need. By going with Mom/Dad, I can learn about different foods and be part of taking care of our family.

These examples of social stories demonstrate how they can be customized to suit specific situations and help individuals with autism navigate everyday experiences. Remember, social stories are a valuable tool in promoting understanding, reducing anxiety, and facilitating successful interactions for individuals with autism.

Additional Resources and Support

Creating meaningful social stories for autism requires careful consideration and understanding. Fortunately, there are various resources and support available to assist individuals in this process. Whether it's finding books and websites that offer ready-made social stories or seeking professional help and guidance, these resources can provide valuable assistance.

Books and Websites for Social Stories

Numerous books and websites offer a wide range of social stories specifically designed for individuals with autism. These resources provide a wealth of ready-made stories that cover various topics and situations. Some websites even offer free social stories for autism that can be accessed and downloaded directly. These resources serve as a valuable starting point for creating social stories tailored to the individual needs of your child.

Professional Help and Guidance

When it comes to creating social stories for autism, seeking professional help and guidance can be immensely beneficial. Autism specialists, therapists, and educators have the expertise to provide personalized support and advice. They can help identify target behaviors or situations, offer insights into writing styles, and guide you in incorporating effective visual supports.

Additionally, professionals can offer valuable feedback and suggestions based on their experience working with individuals on the autism spectrum. They can help tailor social stories to address the unique needs and preferences of your child. If you are unsure where to find professional help, consider reaching out to your child's school, local autism support organizations, or medical professionals for recommendations.

Remember, creating meaningful social stories for autism is an ongoing process that requires continuous refinement and adaptation. It's important to stay open to learning and seeking assistance when needed. By utilizing the available resources and seeking professional help, you can enhance your ability to create effective social stories that support your child's social and emotional development.

In conclusion, books, websites, and professional guidance are valuable resources for creating social stories for autism. They provide a wealth of knowledge, ready-made stories, and personalized support to assist you in crafting meaningful social stories for your child. Take advantage of these resources to empower your child with the tools they need to navigate social situations with confidence and understanding.

Conclusion

Remember, each child is unique, and the implementation process may vary. It's essential to customize the implementation of social stories to meet your child's individual needs.

By implementing social stories effectively, you can help your child with autism gain a better understanding of social situations, develop important skills, and navigate the challenges they may encounter. Social stories provide a valuable tool for individuals with autism to improve their social interactions and overall quality of life.

Sources:

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Unlock the power of social stories for autism! Learn how to create meaningful stories that connect hearts and empower individuals.

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Visual Schedules

Provide a pictorial representation of daily activities/ expectations/ or schedules to reduce anxiety and create predictability within a students day.

Example: If a student demonstrates anxiety or frustration with changes in routines, a visual schedule can be created to allow for understanding of the days tasks creating structure.

Implementation:

Create a schedule and icons to represent each task or activity within the day

Review the schedule by frontloading the student at the start of the day

Update the schedule as needed and use it as a reference throughout the day

Evaluation: Track students compliance and response to intervention. take note of any reduction in behavior or any new frustrations.

(Ccc-Slp, 2023)

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Amy Yacoub, MS, CCC-SLP

Amy is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist and a consultant within the field. She has been practicing for over 10 years. She has a Bachelor's degree in Child Development and a Master's degree in Speech Pathology from Columbia University.

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Why & How to Use Visual Schedules | TherapyWorks

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We explain why and how we use visual schedules for our clients with autism.

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First/ Then boards

Help students understand the sequence of activities. Great for transitions from preferred tasks to non-preferred tasks, providing visual representation of what is expected to limit resistance.

Example: A student who struggles with transitioning centers would benefit from a first this then that board to prompt the upcoming change in schedule. Thus, providing a visual to represent if you complete this then you can do that.

Implementation:

Create a simple board with first then boxs

Create pictures for expected tasks

Place pictures in sequence of task completion. Current activity in the first box and new activity in the then box.

Review the board and reference as necessary before and after transitions.

Evaluation: Monitor student compliance with designated transitions. Track any increase or decrease in behavior.

(Cooper et al., 2007)

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Token Economy

token economies reinforce positive behavior expectations by allowing students to earn tokens for specific behaviors, which in turn can be exchanged for rewards.

Example: If a student is struggling to stay on task, they can earn a token for every 5 minutes that they are focused on their work or engaged in an activity. after earning a specified amount of tokes they can be exchanged for a preferred reinforcer or activity.

Implementation:

Define the targeted behavior needing intervention

Create a token board or system

Explain the system or board to the student

Award tokens for the desired behaviors

Allow students to exchange the tokens for a preferred reinforcer or predetermined reward upon tokens earned.

Evaluate: Track tokens earned and rewarded each day. Assess an increase in targeted behavior over time designated for fidelity.

(Expert Columns: Use Token Economies to Provide Positive Reinforcement and Modify Behavior, n.d.)

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Categories: ASD and DD, Child-focused

When a behavior is reinforced, or rewarded, it is likely to be repeated. For example, when you do something that earns a smile, a "thumbs up," or a pat on the back from a friend, family member, or colleague, it is more likely that you will do it again. The same is true for a child who earns a reward for completing his homework. If the reward, or reinforcer, is something he really wants, he will likely repeat the behavior that earned him the reward.

This response to positive reinforcement is a part of everyday life that we can utilize when we work to modify the behaviors of children and adults with special needs.

One effective method of reinforcement is the use of "token economies." Token economies have three major components: 1) a behavior or behaviors someone needs to exhibit; 2) tokens or points earned for engaging in those behaviors; and 3) exchanging tokens or points for a choice of reinforcing rewards.

Tokens and points can come in many forms. An everyday example is a paycheck. To earn a paycheck, you need to go to work and complete your job responsibilities (behavior); in turn, you receive money (tokens) for working; and you can exchange this money for a nearly unlimited number of reinforcing items (choices).

When working with individuals with autism and other special needs, it is at times most appropriate to use continuous reinforcement and provide a reinforcing item directly after they engage in a behavior you want to increase. In the classroom, however, this can slow down instructional time because you have to interrupt teaching in order to deliver the reinforcer. It can be quicker to have the student work for tokens or points. A token economy will allow for a quicker pace of instruction and, with the correct introduction and exposure, the tokens or points themselves will become reinforcing.

The tokens become what behavior analysts call generalized conditioned reinforcers. In a token economy, tokens can be paired with so many things (all of the choices you can make in regard to exchange) that they themselves become reinforcing in many situations and environments. This makes it a useful tool when preferences change quickly and/or environmental factors change the person's motivation for reinforcement of a certain kind. If he or she becomes uninterested in a certain previously preferred reinforcer, the token may still be motivating because it can be exchanged for a different reinforcer.

The best way to present and explain a token economy will vary depending on the person. The type of tokens, behaviors, schedule of exchange, type of exchange, and choices can all be adjusted for individual needs. Sometimes token economies look like actual economies; students will earn money or fake money they can exchange for items they desire. Other times, a student is earning points on a board, and after obtaining a certain number of points, he or she will be able to earn something. This is a modified token economy, as there is no direct exchange. However, the type of responses, number of responses, and choices are all still present.

It is important to note that, in many cases, token economies need to be introduced and taught in specific ways so the person obtains enough reinforcement and understands the rules as much as possible. The reinforcers and rules are easily adjusted and should change over time as the individual uses the economy.

The goal for all reinforcement is always to get it to a "naturalistic" level where additional resources are not needed. For token economy purposes, this may mean that an individual is no longer working for tokens and instead is working for social praise or the reward of completing a difficult task.

If you think that your child could benefit from the use of a token economy, you may want to consult a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA).

By Sarah Helm, M.A., LABA, BCBA

May Institute is an award-winning nonprofit organization with more than 65 years of experience in serving children and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, brain injury and neurobehavioral disorders, and other special needs. May Institute operates four schools for children and adolescents with ASD and other developmental disabilities, including one in West Springfield, Mass. For more information, call 800-778-7601.

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Use Token Economies to Provide Positive Reinforcement and Modify Behavior

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Categories: ASD and DD, Child-focused When a behavior is reinforced, or rewarded, it is likely to be repeated. For example, when you do something that earns a smile, a "thumbs up," or a pat on the back from a friend, family member, or colleague, it is more likely that you will do it again.

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Proloquo2go

This is an Augmentative and alternative communication application for the use on IPADs. It is intended to assist non-verbal or minimally speaking individuals to support communication.

Example: For a person who can not speak, they can use the application to construct sentences to express their wants and needs using pictures and text to speech.

Implementation:

Download and install the application to an IPAD

Customize the vocabulary to meet student needs

Explicitly teach the student how to navigate the application and create messages

Encourage usage across all settings to maintain consistency and exposure.

Evaluate: Monitor the frequency of usage as well as the complexity of messages. Data track improvements in ability to express ones-self and interactions with peers and adults.

(App Store, 2009)

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Tap images. Type words. Speak. Proloquo2Go is an easy to use communication app for people who cannot speak or need help being understood. Featuring natural sounding voices, including real children's voices, Proloquo2Go is a simple yet powerful AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) tool. The app is fully customizable and can be utilized to build language skills and grow with a person's communication, supporting both beginning and advanced communicators.

Parents, therapists, teachers and users around the world recognize Proloquo2Go as the gold standard in AAC solutions. The app is used by people with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, Angelman syndrome, and others with speech difficulties. The app is available in English, Spanish, French, and Dutch and supports bilingual use, so you can switch languages on the fly.

Proloquo2Go in action:

Learn and grow

Studies show that just 200-400 words make up 80% of what we say. Known as core words, they act as the basis of Proloquo2Go's research-based Crescendo™ vocabulary. Users can grow from single words to full sentences in the same app. Crescendo puts core words in consistent locations for easy access and motor-planning. The vocabulary works with AAC best practices like modeling (where you use an AAC system to talk with the user) to develop language skills. Crescendo offers no limit on language development with a 10,000+ fringe word vocabulary and customizable vocabulary levels. Finally, with Progressive Language, words are gradually revealed step-by-step, helping users learn words and their location as their communication expands.

Easy editing

Customizing Proloquo2Go is a breeze! Quickly and easily add new words. Use the app's built-in library of 25,000 symbols or use your own photos by taking pictures within the app or selecting them from your photo library. For users with fine-motor challenges and vision impairments, Proloquo2Go offers options like 23 pre-programmed grid sizes and accessibility settings which support switch scanning and Apple's VoiceOver screen reader. Everything from appearance to access is customizable so you can make it your own.

Type and speak

Besides tapping images, Proloquo2Go also lets you type what you want to say. The app includes a Grid Keyboard arranged alphabetically for people learning to type. For more experienced typists, Proloquo2Go includes a Typing View with a QWERTY keyboard and word prediction that offers suggestions based on what you are typing.

Hello! ¡Hola! Bonjour! Hallo!

Proloquo2Go lets you select a language and region for the Crescendo vocabulary. Two languages can be used at the same time, allowing seamless bilingual speech. Over 100 included downloadable natural-sounding adult and children's voices rounds out your choices to use the app your way.

A helping hand

AssistiveWare is here for you every step of the way. Help articles in Proloquo2Go are there whenever you need them. New to AAC? Our website has easy to understand articles in the Learn AAC section, and the AssistiveWare Core Word Classroom includes activities for teaching communication effectively. You can also connect directly with our community of parents, professionals, and users on our Facebook groups. If you have any questions, our support team is available 7 days a week and is always happy to help. All of these online resources can be accessed by going to the AssistiveWare website.

Note: Discounts are available through Apple's Educational Volume Purchase Program - 50% off on 20 licenses or more. Joan Bruno's Gateway to Language & Learning© vocabulary is available as an in-app purchase (English only).

Version 7.9.5

We update the app regularly so we can make it better for you. This version includes several bug fixes and performance improvements. Thanks for using our app!

A must have speech device

The Proloquo2Go app on my son device is the best app you can get,with my son having Down Syndrome & Kleinfelter Syndrome it's a double whammy when it comes to speech as both disabilities have speech problems and this device with the app helps my son a lot I'm able to add things like taking a picture of his mom,dad ,brothers and sister with there names you can take your own pictures and add them and pick a voice to go with it ,I even added our phone number to our pictures and added our address ,you can also delete items on there you know they will or may not use which I have done I've also added certain favorite snacks my son likes,foods,people and so on its very easy to use once you get the hang of we're what goes and what each item is under you can even pick the amount of pictures you want on ease grid and the size as well ,I am so glad my sons speech therapist she took care of all the paper work for my sons insurance to cover his device ,the device also comes with a strong rugged case with a stand which opens and closes and alphas a strong handle and 2 different length straps so you can wear the device with the app across your body so you don't loose it,I highly recommend this device with the proloquo2go app for all kids and adults with Speech problems it has helped my son a lot he doesn't get frustrated no more when you cannot understand what he says or to others.

Hi Suziecue2, thank you for your enthusiastic review of Proloquo2Go and the five star rating! We are happy that you find the easy to customize and intuitive to use. It is great that you were able to get Proloquo2Go, iPad, and accessories covered through insurance by purchasing a bundle through a third-party reseller. To make the most out of Proloquo2Go, please be sure to check out our Proloquo2Go Help section (www.assistiveware.com/support/proloquo2go) and Learn AAC section (www.assistiveware.com/learn-aac) for helpful information on using the app and articles on implementing AAC best practices into your daily family life. Please feel free to drop us an email at support@assistiveware.com if you ever have questions about Proloquo2Go or are looking for advice on an AAC issue for your son. As many of our team members are parents of children who use AAC, we are always happy to lend a helping hand to other parents. :-)

Great app!

Happy that such an app exists. Our toddler who we suspected to be on the spectrum before his second birthday has been using this app for about the past 6 months. He turned three not long ago and has been learning how to communicate using the app with the help of his therapists. I really like that it can be customized for early learners such as my toddler. The only reason I give it four stars is because he uses this app on the iPad, but for some reason he has trouble swiping up/down for some reason even after we try to show him over and over again. We were told it's probably a fine motor issue. For now, we all swipe the page for him to access the rest of his icons. I would love it if the ability to swipe left to right were included since he is able to do that with no problem.

Hi SytheticElegance, thank you so much for sharing about your son's progress with Proloquo2Go and your positive feedback about the app! We are happy to hear that Proloquo2Go helps your son with his communication and that you find the app easy to customize. If your son has issues with scrolling in Proloquo2Go, please know that Proloquo2Go includes an option to use Paging buttons (for more info, see: www.assistiveware.com/support/proloquo2go/customize-for-alternative-access/move-up-and-down-a-page-without-swiping) for people who have difficulty swiping the screen. This may make access easier for him. Please also be sure to check out our entire Proloquo2Go Help section (www.assistiveware.com/support/proloquo2go) and Learn AAC section (www.assistiveware.com/learn-aac) for helpful information on using the app and implementing AAC into your daily family life. If you ever have questions about Proloquo2Go or experience issues with the app, please do not hesitate to email support@assistiveware.com and our team will be happy to help! :-)

Crucial app

My granddaughter is essentially non-verbal. For years, 11 to be exact, we have tried to give her a voice. We thought because she can repeat that she would eventually began to talk. To our dismay it did not happen. Finally with the advice from a girlfriend I decided she needed a communication device. I purchased a iPad mini and loaded Proloquo2Go on it. She is picking it up fairly well to my delight. This program on the recommended intermediate is so expansive. I love how you can customize it. I wish I had done this years ago because we would be on a better speech ground by now. Please to all who have similar circumstances do not delay whether the child has speech or not make the worthwhile purchase of a speech program. This program is certainly affordable and can be utilized into adulthood!!

Hi Tyger 500, thank you so much for taking the time to share your granddaughter's story and the positive impact Proloquo2Go has had on her communication. We are happy that she is making good progress with the app. If you have not done so already, we welcome you to check out our Proloquo2Go Help (https://www.assistiveware.com/support/proloquo2go/help-overview) and Learn AAC (https://www.assistiveware.com/learn-aac) sections on our new website for information on Proloquo2Go and articles on AAC implementation. Please feel free to contact us anytime at support@assistiveware.com if you ever have questions about the app. We are always happy to help! :-)

The developer, AssistiveWare, indicated that the app's privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer's privacy policy.

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

Seller

AssistiveWare B.V.

Compatibility

iPhone

Requires iOS 12.4 or later.

iPad

Requires iPadOS 12.4 or later.

iPod touch

Requires iOS 12.4 or later.

Languages

English, Dutch, French, Spanish

In-App Purchases

Gateway vocabulary $149.99

Family Sharing

Some in‑app purchases, including subscriptions, may be shareable with your family group when Family Sharing is enabled.

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‎Tap images. Type words. Speak. Proloquo2Go is an easy to use communication app for people who cannot speak or need help being understood. Featuring natural sounding voices, including real children's voices, Proloquo2Go is a simple yet powerful AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) tool. T...

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GoTalk

This is a portable application for communication using recorded messages. This application would be useful to students who need simple supports.

Example: Asking for help or asking to play using pre recorded blurbs.

Implementation:

Pre record messages into the GoTalk app or device relevant to the students skill set

Teach the student how to press the appropriate buttons when needing to play a message

Use the device in regular routines across all settings for modeling and acceptance

Evaluation: Tracking the students ability to independently use the device and appropriate usage of communicated messages.

(App Store, 2011)

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‎Attainment has been making augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools for 25 years. Our experience is front and center in GoTalk NOW, a flexible, easy-to-use, yet powerful app for people who have difficulty speaking. NOW combines the simplicity of GoTalks (Attainment's popular original...

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LAMP Words for Life

This is an augmentative and alternative communication application using pictures and words to create phrases or sentences to assist students with autism develop language and communication skills.

Example: A student who has verbal communication challenges can use the application to build phrases or sentence to express wants and needs in a more complex way.

Implementation:

Download and install the application to an IPAD

Set up personalization for student vocabulary need

Train the student how to use the application with modeling and guided practice

Use the application across all settings with fidelity

Evaluation: Assess the frequency of usage and evaluate the students ability to initiate or maintain conversation with peers and adults.

(LAMP Words for Life®, n.d.)

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About the LAMP Words for Life® App

LAMP Words for Life ® is structured to enable early success and allow the client's vocabulary and communication skills to grow in a way that doesn't require re-learning along the way. Because this is a pre-programmed vocabulary program, Words for Life doesn't require extensive customization.
Learn more about the app Did you know you can get this app on a funded device? Find out how
New! Inclusive Voices and The VoiceKeeper free with every app

Features to Support Language Learning

LAMP Words for Life ® has thousands of words to support robust communication. It allows the individual to put words together to say whatever they want to say, use verb and adjective forms, and add word endings to use language the same as verbal speakers. Having a robust communication system even if the individual is an emergent communicator, allows for words to be learned the way they will always be said on the device. It provides a pathway for unlimited growth with no change and relearning along the way. There are features in the app to simplify learning while maintaining consistency.

One Motor Pattern per Word

With verbal speech, a word is always produced by the same motor movement. That movement becomes automatic so we don't have to think about how to produce those sounds. LAMP Words for Life ® follows the same principal. Each word is produced by a unique motor movement that remains consistent whether there are 10 words or all words showing.

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Vocabulary Builder

When teaching words to beginning communicators, it may be helpful to limit the words available on the screen to increase success. Vocabulary Builder lets you target select words during engaging activities so the learner can practice the motor movement without visual distraction while hearing the word and learning it through a natural response.

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Word Finder

Word Finder helps you learn where a word is stored. For example, if you want to teach the word "thirsty" but you don't know where to find it, use the Word Finder tool to type in the word to see where it's located. Touch the picture sequence to practice the motor plan.

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Support & Education

We know achieving communication success is a process that involves much more than providing an app, so we have created a variety of resources and training to support you along the way! We offer support articles, video tutorials, live and recorded webinars on teaching strategies and app use, along with free email support and premium support offerings for those who want more personalized, real-time assistance.
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The Approach Behind the App

The LAMP Words for Life ® app is unique in that it was designed specifically to support the Language Acquisition through Motor Planning approach. LAMP Words for Life ® is a therapeutic approach based on neurological and motor learning principles that uses a speech generating device to provide opportunities to learn language in engaging activities by using a consistent motor plan to say words and getting a natural response to that communication.

The Center for AAC & Autism is dedicated to building awareness of the power of AAC to change the lives of individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities, who are challenged by limited spontaneous communication skills. The Center offers trainings on the LAMP Words for Life ® approach and collaborates with PRC-Saltillo to assure LAMP Words for Life ® meets the needs off communicators using the approach.

Visit aacandautism.com

Meet the App Developer

When you can't speak, life can feel overwhelming - but it doesn't have to be that way. Experience the life-changing joy of meaningful communication through our world-renowned, customized AAC vocabularies, assistive technology, and our unmatched training and personalized support. Trust our 50+ years of AAC experience to guide you to the right communication solution. Connect with us to learn more.

Visit prc-saltillo.com

Testimonials

See what people are saying about LAMP Words for Life ®

"

LAMP has been life changing for my son! He went from being 4 years old and having less than 20 words to typing 2-4 word expressions within a couple months. He was so happy to finally tell us all the stuff he was thinking, but had no way to express. LAMP has given him a voice to express his needs, wants, emotions and so much more, just like other kids. With LAMP he fully participates in school and family life. I can't imagine how hard he would struggle with frustrations if didn't have his talker.

"

- Tessa Hurd

"

If you've never watched the scene from Mr. Holland's Opus where the mom had a heartbreaking meltdown over communication with her son-you would not understand the daily frustration and heartbreak we went through prior to LAMP. LAMP has been an absolutely life changing tool for our family! Our daughter has Robertsonian Unbalanced Translocation Down Syndrome, Dyspraxia of speech, sensory processing issues, and is mostly unintelligible even to trained or familiar ears. LAMP has given us so much hope for an independent life for our girl. LAMP has given us a way to communicate with our daughter and a way for her to give us her thoughts on what's happening in her day to day life.

"

- Heather Johnson

"

We did not find LAMP WFL until our son was 4 years old. Week after week after week of speech therapy and developmental preschool, and he refused to use any method of communication they tried. And then an SLP at his intensive feeding program brought me into a session where she had let him use LAMP WFL. I cried happy tears listening to him intentionally communicate for the first time in his life with what would become his voice. He had needed access to a robust language system, and LAMP WFL was able to provide it in such a way that his communication skills soared. When our son was able to start verbally speaking over 3 years later, it was with the consistency and confidence LAMP WFL had given him.

"

- Jessica Savage

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We only use strictly necessary cookies for this website. Please see the privacy policy for more information. Got it! LAMP Words for Life ® is structured to enable early success and allow the client's vocabulary and communication skills to grow in a way that doesn't require re-learning along the way.

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Speak for Yourself AAC

This application is designed to support more complex communication needs. It offers a large vocabulary set which a customizable screen.

Example: A student with autism who has multiple complex communication needs can use the application to express thoughts or emotions with the click of a button.

Implementation:

Install the application

Personalize the home screen and adpat the vocabulary to students needs

Provide as many opportunities for modeling, guidance, and expression using the application

Encourage usage of the application at all times across all settings.

Evaluation: Data track the students ability to communicate efficiently in a variety of ways with appropriate expression and application usage. Measure any increased or decreased frustrations in communicating of wants and needs.

(Speak for Yourself AAC – Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) App: Changing the World, One Voice at a Time., n.d.)

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What is Speak for Yourself?

Speak for Yourself (SfY) is an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) application that was created by speech-language pathologists. This AAC app turns the iPad into a communication device. It gives a voice to adults and children who are not able to speak or are limited in their ability to express themselves verbally.

Speak for Yourself is being used by thousands of individuals around the world with autism, cerebral palsy, apraxia, and genetic syndromes. Additionally, it is also being used in preschool classrooms to promote word-finding, visual language support, and verbal speech development.

If you know someone who has complex communication needs (CCN), this AAC app bridges the gap between current communication abilities and all that the individual wants to say. Using AAC does not interfere with the development of verbal speech...in fact, it promotes it! Many parents say that using a device to provide communication is the single best thing they did for their child's verbal speech!

Ready to give it a try?

We offer codes at no cost to speech-language pathologists (SLP) and AAC evaluators so that clients can try it! If you're a SLP or AAC Evaluator and you'd like to explore the SfY app, please email us at info@speakforyourself.org.

Take the first step today and learn more about SfY and AAC. Provide access to language and communication today so that the people in your life with CCN have a voice. Give them the basic human right to speak for themselves.

Here's how you can start:

Find out more about the evidence-based research behind Speak for Yourself and the features that make it a favorite among speech-language pathologists, parents, AAC users, and teachers!

Join the Speak for Yourself Users Group on Facebook to ask questions and interact with parents and professionals who have experience with the SfY AAC app!

Take a look at SfY in action: Small Talk with AAC

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What is Speak for Yourself? Speak for Yourself (SfY) is an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) application that was created by speech-language pathologists. This AAC app turns the iPad into a communication device.

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TouchChat

A customizable communication application with a large vocabulary, language support, and text to speech voices. This application can also use head Tracking for those with mobility impairments.

Example: If a student is orthopedically impaired they can use the head and face tracking capability on an IPAD or Iphone which tracks simple movement to identify word choice and sentence creation, the application also speaks in different voices to meet the students needs.

Implementation:

Download and install the application to an IPAD or IPhone

Customize the vocabulary to meet student needs

Assess need for head tracking if necessary

Explicitly teach the student how to navigate the application and create messages

Use modeling and guided support as necessary to meet students need

Encourage usage across all settings to maintain consistency and exposure

Evaluate: Analyze the complexity of language learned and used to communicate with peers and adults. Track students ability to use the application independently. Track any decrease or increase in communication frustration.

(Prc-Saltillo, n.d.)

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Communicating with the world around you is challenging when you have difficulty speaking with your natural voice. Using the familiarity of iOS technology, the TouchChat app offers you a dynamic communication solution with easy-to-customize features and a wide range of vocabularies, languages, and voices.

Did you know you could get this app on a funded device? Learn how
New! Try TouchChat FREE for 30 days with TouchChat Discover

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Communicating with the world around you is challenging when you have difficulty speaking with your natural voice. Using the familiarity of iOS technology, the TouchChat app offers you a dynamic communication solution with easy-to-customize features and a wide range of vocabularies, languages, and voices. Did you know you could get this app on a funded device?