Tools for Schools
Provisions and /or strategies
- Use the child’s name first to draw their attention, followed by key word instructions e.g. Jamie, stop.
- Give simple instructions (avoiding idioms).
- Use objects of reference to support routine.
- Use literal language (avoiding sarcasm and figures of speech).
- Use of symbol communication such as Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) if recommended by a specialist who has provided training to enable practitioners to implement the system correctly.
- Be aware of you own body language: a high percentage of what we communicate is non verbal.
Have an awareness of:
- an appropriate tone of voice (calm, not too loud).
- an appropriate environment (noise, temperature, lighting, layout).
- use of language (some children may need a language rich environment; others may need it to be kept simple).
Last updated 1 November 2022