Communication and the nonverbal, multihandicapped child.

Area of Science:

• Assistive Technology
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
• Pediatric Rehabilitation

Background:

• Children with severe motor impairments, including cerebral palsy, often face significant communication challenges.
• Effective communication is crucial for social integration and academic participation in educational settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the Auto-Com device for a student with cerebral palsy.
• To assess the impact of the Auto-Com on the student's communication abilities and classroom engagement.

Main Methods:

• An occupational therapist provided training on the Auto-Com device to a pupil with cerebral palsy.
• The student used the Auto-Com for communication within the school environment.

Main Results:

• The pupil successfully learned to operate the Auto-Com device.
• The use of the Auto-Com facilitated effective communication for the student.
• The student demonstrated increased involvement in classroom activities.

Conclusions:

• The Auto-Com is a viable assistive technology for enhancing communication in individuals with severe motor impairments like cerebral palsy.
• Occupational therapy intervention is effective in training individuals to use AAC devices.
• Improved communication can lead to greater social and academic integration for students with disabilities.