Visual supports are concrete cues that are paired with, or used in place of, a verbal cue to provide the learner with information about a routine, activity, behavioral expectation, or skill demonstration. Visual supports might include: "pictures," "written words," "objects," "arrangement of the environment,"…

Social narratives describe social situations for learners with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by providing relevant cues, explanation of the feelings and thoughts of others in the social situation, and descriptions of appropriate behavior expectations. Typically, social narratives are individualized based upon the needs of the learner, short, and…

A hallmark of Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is difficulties with social communication, and some learners with ASD experience additional deficits in expressive and/or receptive language that impair their ability to interact with others. However, a strength observed in many learners with ASD is responding to visual cues and structure. The use of…

Research and education law support the use of routines-based interventions for young children with disabilities in the children's natural environments. However, systematic training and practice can provide individuals with the strategies and skills that can enhance these interventions. This article provides guidance for implementing intervention…

All babies communicate. It is through communication that relationships are formed and sustained. All parents must learn how to interpret and respond to their baby's communications in order to form the bonds that become the foundation for development. When a child has both a visual impairment and hearing loss, however, it may be more difficult to…

This factsheet presents numerous ways that parents can interact with their deaf-blind children. The challenges facing children with deaf-blindness are explained and compared to children without disabilities. Ways to recognize and then respond to children's actions are suggested, and tips for developing good communication are presented, including…

This fact sheet presents numerous ways that parents can interact with their deaf-blind children. The challenges facing children with deaf-blindness are explained and compared to children without disabilities. Ways to recognize and then respond to children's actions are suggested and tips for developing good communication are presented, including…

Communication is accomplished in many ways--through gestures, body language, writing, and speaking. Most people communicate verbally, without giving much thought to the process, but others may struggle to effectively communicate with others. The ability to express oneself affects behavior, learning, and sociability. When children are unable to…

Explains the need to establish alternate communication devices between mothers and their blind infants. Mothers must demonstrate a natural ability to respond to auditory and manual cues, rather than visual cues. The importance of "tactual intimacy" is also stressed. (AS)