Communication Support by

Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)

karithomas1 — 2025-05-04 19:55:15 UTC

PECS is a low-tech system in which individuals are taught to select pictures and exchange them to communicate wants and needs. PECS is used with students who are nonverbal or who have limited speech. This system can be helpful when a student is not able to communicate.

Gestures

karithomas1 — 2025-05-05 00:42:41 UTC

Gesturing is an important part of communication. Individuals with autism often have difficulty imitating gestures and making connections. This low-tech strategy may require explicit instruction in both gestural production and gestural comprehension.

Manual Sign Systems

karithomas1 — 2025-05-06 06:23:31 UTC

Sign language is a low-tech system that supports communication for individuals with ASD. There are two common forms of sign language used in the United States among individuals with ASD: American Sign Language (ASL); and Signed Exact English (SEE). ASL is the preferred choice for students who will likely remain nonverbal whereas SEE mirrors the English language and is useful for students who have the goal of achieving verbal communication.

Pen and Paper

karithomas1 — 2025-05-06 06:30:25 UTC

For individuals who are literate or able to draw, using paper and pencil can provide an avenue for communicating. Writing is a low tech strategy that can enhance communication for individuals with autism.

First...Then Cards

karithomas1 — 2025-05-06 06:33:14 UTC

A "First...Then" communication board is a low tech strategy that can teach students with autism the order of activities. For example: first we complete the math worksheet, then we play with kinetic sand.

NovaChat

karithomas1 — 2025-05-06 06:34:06 UTC

NovaChat is a speech generating device from Saltillo. There are different sizes available and vocabulary files are preloaded. Colorful wraps are easy to swap out and the device has a handle for easy carrying. The newest model (NovaChat 8 Active) also comes with easy grip side handles that aid in positioning during use.

Via Pro by PRC-Saltillo with TouchChat

karithomas1 — 2025-05-06 06:35:51 UTC

The Via Pro is a speech generating device by Saltillo. A choice of the communication apps Lamp Words for Life, TouchChat, or Dialogue (or a combination of all three) are available during the order process. The device is less than 3 pounds and has a 5 year warranty. It also meets the requirements to be classified as durable medical equipment, which can aid in funding.

TD Snap

karithomas1 — 2025-05-06 06:37:56 UTC

TD Snap offers a suite of page sets, all eye gaze, touch and switch-enabled, to meet different communication needs. It is a flexible software offering professionals and families a choice of AAC solutions. It comes with a set of powerful tools and resources to empower people with speech and language disabilities to communicate.

QuickTalker Freestyle

karithomas1 — 2025-05-06 06:39:18 UTC

Available through AbleNet, the QuickTalker Freestyle comes with a five year warranty and the support of the AbleNet team. There are 2 sizes available and the iPadOS is the operating system. An AbleNet funding team is dedicated to the finding process and can guide families and providers through needed documentation, speech evaluations, and insurance guidelines.

ProSlate Series

karithomas1 — 2025-05-06 06:40:35 UTC

The ProSlate series has a variety of devices in different sizes, ranging from a 13 inch screen to one that can fit in your pocket. Operating systems are iOS based. ProSlate also offers an eye gaze device.