Using Picture Symbols and Objects to Aid Communication

5 ways to Facilitate a Child Who is Pre-verbal or Has Limited Language

1. Adapt Environmental Input

Manipulate the room so that there are less distractions. Turn the TV off and remove any distracting toys or items so your child can focus on you and whatever it is you're using!

2. Provide the Power of Choice

Feeling in control is a huge thing for kids, especially those who are not yet able to verbally express what they want. Present two items and let the child choose which one he wants. You can present pictures to represent food/drink, toys, desired locations such as the park or library...the list is endless...but give your child a choice!

3. Use Pictures

Find some time to snap a few pictures of your child's favorite toys, games, and places to visit. You can also use generic pictures that you find online. Print them and present two pictures in order to provide opportunities for the child to make a choice. 

The use of picture symbols may help the child understand object-referent association. Let's say, for example, that the child chooses the picture of the park, but says nothing. You would then say, "Park," with an excited tone. "We will go to the park!" Through this method, you have allowed the child the opportunity to attach meaning of the picture (i.e., tree, playground equipment, grass) to the spoken word park. 

**You could have said, "Do you want to go to the library today or the park?" **  However, by using pictures, providing the word, and then using it in a short phrase, you have reduced the demand of the child needing to process the information, make a choice, and attempt to use the vocabulary. 

Recap: 1. Hold up the picture, 2. Say the word with emphasis, 3. Use the word in a short phrase

4. Use Aided Language Stimulation

Pair a spoken word with a gesture or point to a visual representation of the word. This can be used to improve the child’s ability to comprehend the language directed to him.

5. Be Repetitive

Provide the same sorts of opportunities for picture choices throughout the day. Use the same language structure to allow the child to first hear the word by itself and then hear it in context. 

Have fun using these tips with your child! I'd love to hear how these ideas work for you! Post pictures of your experiences and use the hashtag #talktoomey so that I can see them! Thank you for reading!

Sources: Drager et al., 2006; Goossens’, Crain, & Elder, 1992, 1994

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