Communication is the cornerstone of human connection, yet for many children, especially those with autism and developmental differences, traditional expectations around verbal speech can create unnecessary barriers to being heard and understood. At Committed to Kids ABA, we believe that every child has something important to say – and there are countless beautiful ways to say it.
What Are Communication Wins?
Communication wins are those precious moments when a child successfully expresses themselves, connects with others, or makes their needs known – regardless of the method they use. These victories might look like:
- A first signed word
- Successfully requesting a preferred item using pictures
- A breakthrough with an AAC device
- Using art to express complex emotions
- A meaningful gesture that connects parent and child
- Even challenging behavior that communicates an important need
The Spectrum of Human Communication
Traditional Verbal Communication
While spoken language is one form of communication, it’s important to recognize that not all children will develop verbal speech, and that’s perfectly okay. For those who do use verbal communication, we celebrate every word, phrase, and conversation as significant milestones.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
AAC encompasses various tools and techniques that help individuals communicate when verbal speech is challenging. This includes:
High-tech AAC:
- Speech-generating devices
- Communication apps on tablets
- Voice output devices
Low-tech AAC:
- Picture exchange communication system (PECS)
- Communication boards
- Written words and symbols
Sign Language and Natural Gestures
American Sign Language and natural gestural communication offer rich, visual ways for children to express themselves. Many families find that incorporating sign language alongside other communication methods creates multiple pathways for successful interaction.
Creative and Expressive Communication
Communication extends far beyond words and pictures. Children often express themselves through:
- Art and drawing – Visual representations of thoughts and feelings
- Music and rhythm – Emotional expression through sound
- Movement and dance – Physical communication of joy, needs, or preferences
- Play and imagination – Symbolic representation of experiences
Behavioral Communication
All behavior communicates something. At our neuroaffirming ABA practice, we view challenging behaviors as communication attempts rather than problems to eliminate. Understanding what a child is trying to communicate through their behavior allows us to teach more effective communication alternatives.
The Neuroaffirming Approach to Communication
Child-Led Communication Development
Our child-led approach means following each child’s natural communication preferences and building upon their existing strengths. Rather than forcing a predetermined communication method, we observe, listen, and adapt our support to match what works best for each individual child.
Honoring Communication Attempts
Every communication attempt – no matter how small or different – deserves recognition and response. When we consistently acknowledge and respond to a child’s communication efforts, we encourage more attempts and build confidence in their ability to connect with others.
Collaborative Goal Setting
Working closely with families, we develop communication goals that reflect the child’s interests, the family’s priorities, and practical daily life needs. This collaborative approach ensures that communication skills are meaningful and functional in the child’s natural environment.
Supporting Communication Development at Home
Create Communication-Rich Environments
- Provide multiple communication options throughout your home
- Label items with words, pictures, or symbols
- Offer various art supplies and creative materials
- Maintain AAC devices in easily accessible locations
Model Different Communication Methods
Children learn by watching others. Model sign language, use picture cards yourself, and demonstrate how AAC devices work. Show that all forms of communication are valuable by using them in your daily interactions.
Celebrate Small Wins
Acknowledge every communication attempt, whether it’s a new sign, pointing to a picture, or using behavior to express a need. Your celebration and response reinforce the value of communication efforts.
Be Patient with the Process
Communication development takes time and looks different for every child. Some days will show remarkable progress, while others might feel challenging. Consistency and patience create the foundation for long-term communication success.
The Role of ABA in Communication Development
Functional Communication Training
Evidence-based ABA practices focus on teaching functional communication skills that serve real purposes in a child’s daily life. This might include requesting preferred items, expressing emotions, or engaging in social interactions.
Natural Environment Training
Rather than practicing communication skills in isolation, we embed learning opportunities throughout natural daily routines. This approach helps children generalize their communication skills across different settings and situations.
Data-Driven Progress Monitoring
While celebrating all forms of communication, we also carefully track progress to ensure that our approaches are effective and that children are developing new skills over time. This data helps us adjust our methods to better support each child’s unique learning style.
Technology and Communication Innovation
The landscape of communication technology continues to evolve, offering new possibilities for children who benefit from AAC support. From sophisticated speech-generating devices to simple communication apps, technology can provide powerful tools for expression and connection.
However, it’s important to remember that technology is just one option among many. The best communication method is the one that works for each individual child, whether high-tech, low-tech, or no-tech at all.
Building Communication Communities
Communication success extends beyond the therapy session or classroom. Building communities that understand and value diverse forms of communication helps children feel accepted and understood in all areas of their lives.
Family Education and Support
We provide ongoing education and support to help families understand and implement communication strategies at home. When families feel confident supporting their child’s communication development, progress accelerates and generalizes more effectively.
Community Awareness
Advocating for acceptance and understanding of diverse communication methods in schools, community organizations, and social settings helps create inclusive environments where all children can participate and thrive.
Measuring Success Beyond Words
Traditional measures of communication success often focus solely on verbal language development. However, true communication success includes:
- Increased independence in expressing needs and wants
- Stronger relationships with family members and peers
- Reduced frustration and challenging behaviors
- Greater participation in preferred activities
- Enhanced quality of life and social connection
Looking Forward: The Future of Communication Support
The field of communication support continues to advance with new research, technologies, and understanding of neurodevelopmental differences. At Committed to Kids ABA, we stay current with these developments while maintaining our core commitment to child-led, neuroaffirming practices.
Conclusion
Every child deserves to have their voice heard and their communication honored, regardless of the form it takes. By celebrating all types of communication wins – from first words to creative expressions to behavioral communications – we create environments where children can thrive as their authentic selves.
Communication wins remind us that connection transcends traditional expectations. When we open our hearts and minds to the beautiful diversity of human expression, we discover that every child has been communicating all along – we just need to learn their language.
Ready to celebrate your child’s unique communication journey? Contact our team to learn more about our neuroaffirming, child-led approach to ABA therapy and discover how we can support your family’s communication wins.