1. Increasing Communication Options for Children with ASD in the Early Years Kate Palmer Early Childhood Services

2. Autism Association of Western Australia “To advance the personal development, equality of opportunity and community participation of people with Autism”

3. Early Childhood Services Early Intervention Program Autism Specific Early Learning and Care Centre

4. Increasing Communication Options What is expected from a child in their early years? What are the common communication difficulties children with ASD experience? When can Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) be introduced?

5. Augmentative and Alternative Communication A way of communicating other than using speech Augmentative communication - augment or as a supplement to speech Alternative communication - an alternative to speech when functional speech is not possible. Enables increased information, organisation and social networking options

6. Low Tech AAC options Choice boards Single Switch Device

7. Low Tech AAC options Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)

8. Low Tech AAC options Aided Language Stimulation (ALS) Activity Specific Boards

9. Low Tech AAC options Pragmatic Organisation Dynamic Displays (PODD)

10. Hi Tech AAC options Speech Generating Devices

11. Hi Tech AAC options iPad Apps

12. Implementation Comprehensive assessment by AAC Consultant Consider family preferences and environment Individualised vocabulary Consider motor, sensory, cognitive and linguistic skills Device trial

13. Family and School Involvement Vocabulary selection Coaching and training Home and school support

14. Summary Group based and individualised supports available Select the communication options that best suit the child’s communication needs It is their voice, make sure it is available to them Family involvement is essential

15. Thank you!