As a parent communication is one of the most important aspects of connecting with your child. It allows you to understand their needs, share in their joys, communicate in return, and support them through challenges. However, if your child has difficulties with communication, it can be an overwhelming experience. The good news is that there are a wide variety of communication methods available to help your child express themselves, and our team of speech pathologists are here to help you to find what works best for your child and your family.
This year for Speech Pathology Week we are looking at different methods of communication, including spoken, signed, digital, written, and other non-verbal forms of communication.
Spoken Communication
For many children, spoken communication is the primary way they express themselves. This involves using speech sounds to form words and sentences, allowing them to share their thoughts and feelings verbally. Spoken communication includes not only the words themselves but also how they are spoken, such as tone, pitch, and volume, which can convey emotion and intent.
Some children may struggle with spoken communication due to speech disorders like stuttering, language delays, or conditions such as hearing impairments or cerebral palsy. These challenges can make it difficult for them to speak clearly, leading to frustration for both the child and their family. But often this is still the default method of communication among families, making it important to develop speech and understanding as much as possible.
How a Speech Pathologist Can Help: If your child has difficulty with spoken communication, a speech pathologist can assess their specific needs and work on strategies to improve their speech. This may involve exercises to strengthen the muscles used for speaking, techniques to improve fluency, or activities to expand vocabulary and sentence structure.
For children with more severe speech difficulties, a speech pathologist may suggest exploring other communication methods that can complement or replace spoken communication.
Signed Communication
Signed communication, such as Australian Sign Language (Auslan), is a visual form of communication that uses hand movements, facial expressions, and body language to convey meaning. It’s commonly used by the Australian d/Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities, and it can also be a valuable tool for children who have challenges with spoken language.
There are many different types of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Some are “no-tech”, like sign and do not require anything beyond the user’s body. Others are “low-tech” and require something external to the user that may be non- electronic or a simple electronic device. “High-tech” types of AAC are electronic devices similar to computers.
How a Speech Pathologist Can Help: A speech pathologist can introduce your child and your family to sign language, teaching you the basics and helping you incorporate it into your daily life. They can also adapt signs to make them easier for your child to use if they have motor difficulties.
By learning sign language together, you can enhance communication within your family and give your child an effective way to express themselves.
Digital Communication
In today’s digital age, technology offers many tools to help children communicate. Digital communication methods include high and low tech AAC devices, Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs), and text-to-speech apps. These tools can be especially helpful for children who have difficulty with spoken or signed communication.
Depending on your child’s age and abilities it may take time for your child to learn how to use these tools effectively. Additionally, access to the necessary technology and ongoing support is crucial for ongoing success.
How a Speech Pathologist Can Help: A speech pathologist will work with your child to determine which digital communication tools are the best fit for their needs. They will guide you through the selection process, ensuring that the device or app is easy for your child to use and suits their communication style.
The speech pathologist will also provide training for both your child and your family, so everyone feels confident in using the technology to communicate. Customising the device to include your child’s preferred words and phrases can make it even more personal and effective.
Written Communication
Written communication, whether through handwriting, typing, or using symbols, is another way for children to express themselves. This method is especially helpful for children who may struggle with speech but have strong literacy skills or can understand symbols.
Sometimes written communication can be limited while children are young, and some children may find writing difficult due to issues with fine motor skills or literacy challenges. Additionally, written communication might not always convey the full emotional context of a message. So there are definitely limitations, but it can be a great way for children to express complex messages without relying on verbal communication methods.
How a Speech Pathologist Can Help: Speech pathologists can support your child in developing written communication skills, alongside other Allied Health professionals such as Occupational Therapists
For children with motor impairments, it may be recommended to use adaptive devices, such as a keyboard with larger keys or eye-tracking technology that allows them to write without using their hands. These tools can create new avenues for your child to express their thoughts and feelings.
Other Ways to Communicate
Beyond spoken, signed, digital, and written communication, there are other ways your child might communicate. Non-verbal communication methods, such as gestures, facial expressions, and body language, can be powerful tools. Some children may also use objects or environmental cues to communicate.
However non-verbal communication can sometimes be subtle and harder to interpret, which might lead to misunderstandings. Children with limited mobility or cognitive challenges may also find it challenging to use non-verbal communication effectively. But it can be an incredibly effective communication tool; particularly for children who may find it difficult to express their thoughts.
How a Speech Pathologist Can Help: Speech pathologists can help your child develop their non-verbal communication skills, teaching them to use gestures or facial expressions more effectively. They can also work with you to better understand your child’s non-verbal cues, helping you respond more accurately to their needs.
In cases where your child relies on environmental cues, a speech pathologist can suggest ways to modify the environment to support clearer communication.
Conclusion
As a parent, it’s natural to want the best communication method for your child. The journey to finding that method can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Speech pathologists are here to support you and your child every step of the way, helping you explore different communication methods, from spoken and signed language to digital and written tools, and non-verbal techniques.
By working closely with a speech pathologist, you can help your child find the communication method that allows them to express themselves fully and confidently. Every child is unique, and with the right support, they can find their voice in whatever form it takes.
If you’d like to talk to us about how we can support you and your family with any communication barriers, please get in touch!