Following a review of the literature, the paper describes a total communication approach to the language development of a 4-year-old autistic child. It is explained that the child was videotaped while being trained to simultaneously use elements of American sign language together with the correct spoken word or words. Training procedures are…

Considers the signed speech of nonverbal children and the unsigned speech that evolves. Discusses possible explanations for signed speech as a development of linguistic functions. Makes suggestions for research on the relationship between language acquisition by nonverbal children and by normal infants. (PMJ)

Twenty-one nonverbal autistic children, 4- to 9-years-old, with language ages of 4- to 24-months, participated in the communication learning program from 1 to 3 years. Simultaneous verbal and manual signs were chosen as the communications mode. The children initially displayed infrequent, unrecognizable vocalizations (Screeches, or vocal…

A strict training procedure consisting of English words printed on magnetic particles placed on a magnetic board, was used to advance language in two language- deficient autistic children. The procedure is discussed in terms of its potential advantages for training language. (Author)

Based on papers presented at Convention of American Association on Mental Deficiency (1967) and Annual Convention of American Speech and Hearing Association (44th, Denver, Nov. 15-18, 1968.) (Author)

Reported was a behavior therapy program emphasizing language training for 20 autistic children who variously exhibited apparent sensory deficit, severe affect isolation, self stimulatory behavior, mutism, echolalic speech, absence of receptive speech and social and self help behaviors, and self destructive tendencies. The treatment emphasized…

A program for children with communication disorders (autistic-like behaviors) has been developed by the Kent (Ohio) Public Schools' Special Education program and is intended to eventually integrate the children served into other special education classrooms and, ultimately, into the home school special education program. Among the program's…

Discussed from a behavioral perspective are theoretical approaches and recent educational and research developments in the field of childhood autism. (CL)