Research directions in augmentative and alternative communication for preschool children

Purpose: To review issues related to the use of augmentative systems with young children and present a case study of one child and family's experience with the System for Augmenting Language (SAL). Method: The case involved a preschool child with severe developmental delays who had little functional speech. Acquisition and use of graphic symbols on a speech-output communication device was studied in home and clinical settings. Language and communication behaviours of the child and his communication partners were observed and language assessment measures were collected. Results: Child engagement state varied across the two settings with a stable profile seen in the therapy setting and a clear increase at home. Child communicative attempts increased following the introduction of the augmented system. Parents reported successful use of the SAL. Conclusion: SAL is a viable communication intervention approach for young children.