When your child has a special need that limits their ability to speak, then you have several options to help. One of the best things you can do for your child is to get them started in regular speech therapy sessions, like the ones we offer at the Connections Therapy Center. In addition, you can find many ways to communicate with your child day-to-day in a way that is comfortable for you both. Here are three useful types of nonverbal communication that you can try today.
Sign Language
Across the world, there are millions of people who use different types of sign language to communicate nonverbally. You will find that ASL, or American Sign Language, is the most prevalent here and there are several books, classes and videos to help you get started. If your child is very young, then there is basic sign language for infants and toddlers that you can try. All you have to do is show each sign to your child while saying the word it represents and over time they will understand. And, you don’t have to strictly follow ASL signs. If your child struggles with fine motor skills to articulate their hands or you find that other hand gestures work better, then you can do what feels natural.
Apps and Technology
Fortunately, there are many devices and applications that have become popular and offer easy, quality, nonverbal communication. You can search for the best-reviewed communication apps and decide which one will work for your child. If they are free, then you can try as many as you want, or try a couple paid ones if you don’t mind the price. Either way, don’t feel discouraged if one in particular doesn’t click with your child because there are many apps that have a different interface that could be more user-friendly.
Music
Although you don’t communicate with music the same way as you do using language, music is a powerful tool for child development. Playing a musical instrument can help your child learn valuable skills for coordination, reading, and work ethic. But most importantly, music gives your child the ability to express themselves in a healthy and constructive manner. It has been clinically proven again and again that listening to and playing music reduces stress and contributes to overall psychological health.
The Connections Therapy Center
The Connections Therapy Center serves families of children and adolescents with disabilities and special needs. We are a team of experts in the fields of pediatric speech, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and behavioral sciences. As a team, we offer intensive hands-on therapy for children and adolescents, as well as informative and useful resources for families. If you are interested in learning more about what we can do to help your family, visit us online or give us a call at (301) 577-4333. Want to get more information on how to help your child thrive? Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.