AAC For Gestalt Language Processors
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As a speech therapist supporting autistic clients for over a decade, I have come to deeply appreciate the unique needs of gestalt language processors (GLPs). Combining the best practices of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) with the specific needs of GLPs can be challenging but immensely rewarding. The moments when you see your child or student’s face light up with delight as they hear their favorite songs and personal language gestalts are some of the best ever.
But, how do we get there?
Well, there are certain factors that are universally important when it comes to supporting any AAC user, whether they are an analytic or gestalt processor. Let’s talk about those first:
Motor Planning
We know that keeping icons in the same location is so important for an AAC user’s motor planning. Ensuring that icon locations remain in the same location across all pages is essential. This consistency helps users to build motor memory and reduces the cognitive load of having to constantly search for icons.
Display Size
Whenever physically possible for your child, use a display size of 60+ icons. The larger display accomodates more vocabulary and allows for more robust communication. When you start with a smaller number of icons on a child’s AAC device, they will have to learn a new motor plan any time you increase the grid size. Because of this, starting with a smaller amount of icons is not easier in the long run. A larger display aids in motor planning, as the locations of icons never has to change. There are ways to support a child in learning to use their device, such as temporarily hiding icons while a child is starting out. This will reduce the grid size without forgetting about the importance of motor planning. We always want to program AAC with our current child’s needs in mind, as well as their future needs!
Keep the Homepage Intact
Whenever possible, do not change the homepage of the AAC device. The homepage serves as a familiar starting point for the user, and altering it too often can create confusion and frustration. Allow the user to become comfortable and proficient with the homepage layout before making any significant changes.
Patience and Modeling
Patience is paramount when working with AAC users. Some children may need a long time to explore their system before they begin to use it for communication, and that's perfectly okay. Provide plenty of modeling without expectation to show them how to use the device in various contexts. This can help them understand the power of their AAC system and encourage them to use it more confidently.
With those best practice principles in mind, let’s consider how we can specifically use AAC with GLPs. I’ll give my top 5 tips for supporting early gestalt language processors with AAC:
Program their gestalts- What gestalts is the child currently using? If it is a certain line from a show or lyrics from a song, we want to program it in! Sometimes, early GLPs will use their body to produce gestalts (referred to as echopraxia). We want to be tuned-in communication partners to notice these things when they’re happening, so that we know what language is meaningful to the child.
Add in potential gestalts- Using your child’s favorite shows or songs, add in language or sounds that seem to be meaningful to your child. For example, one of my clients really loves the show Trash Truck on Netflix, and there are certain episodes that he watches repeatedly. We made a list of the scenes that he replays and watches closely, and pulled language out of the episodes to program onto his device. We then recorded the audio from these clips right onto his device!
Keep motor planning in mind- When it comes to programming gestalts, think of the main word or idea in the audio that you are programming. For example, if the line, “let’s run away!” you might consider programming the audio on the “run” icon on your GLP’s device. This honors the child’s gestalts and favorite shows while also attributing meaning to the language by helping the child recognize the words that make up the gestalts.
Make a gestalts folder- Some experts recommend making a folder of gestalts for your GLP. I have done this for a few of my GLPs, as it allows them to access their favorite gestalts without changing the rest of their device. Remember, a GLP will eventually begin to break down their gestalts and self-generate language, so we want to make sure we are thinking of their future progress while programming for their current needs.
Use visual scenes- many AAC apps, such as TouchChat, offer different layouts within the grid. For example, you can use a visual scene that is a photo of something your child loves that has either ‘hot spots’ or icons with language that relates to the picture. For example, it could be a visual scene of your child’s playroom, with icons that have language such as “let’s play!” and “I’m all done!”
Honoring Gestalts
Understand and Acknowledge Gestalts: Recognize that your client has connected with specific TV clips or songs. Show them that you understand and honor these connections. This can be a powerful way to build trust and rapport.
Teach Vocabulary Meaningfully: Use the gestalts as a starting point to introduce new vocabulary. For example, if a child loves a particular song, use the lyrics to teach relevant words and phrases. This method makes learning more engaging and relevant to the child's interests.
Build Connection and Buy-In: By incorporating elements that the child is already passionate about, you can increase their engagement and willingness to use the AAC device. This connection can lead to more meaningful and effective communication.
Support GLD Progress: Use the gestalts to support the child's progress through the stages of Gestalt Language Development (GLD). Tailor your approach to their current stage and provide appropriate support to help them advance.
Want to learn more?
What do you think? How are you using AAC with your GLPs? I’d love to hear all of your ideas and experiences! Sharing our collective knowledge can only help us support our GLPs better!
If you're looking for more in-depth strategies and personalized guidance on connecting and communicating with speaking, minimally speaking, or non-speaking GLPs, I invite you to check out my signature course, The Great Language Partner Program.
This course was created for parents, caregivers, and professionals who support gestalt language processors of all abilities. It will transform your connection with your child or students by teaching YOU how to be your GLP’s Greatest Language Partner.
