InterAACt and Positive Behavior Supports
Behavior is a form of communication. For children with autism, behavior may be
the only means by which they have to communicate a need or frustration. Research
tells us that individuals with autism will communicate using the “most effective
and efficient means possible.” (Mirenda, 2005)
Visual supports have been found to be very beneficial for children with autism and
can be used throughout the day to provide information about changes that may occur
or what to expect in a particular situation. This not only prepares the child for
change, but also provides them the tools necessary to communicate in those situations.
Sometimes, the use of visual supports will decrease challenging behaviors because
the child can better understand transitions, changes in the environment and the
expectations that have been set for them.
Some examples of visual supports available on DynaVox communication devices include:
present the abstract concept
of time in a concrete, visual form and present events/ activities in the order in
which they will take place. The purpose of a schedule or calendar is to help children
organize their lives and understand sequence and time. Children can use schedules
and calendars to talk about past or future events.
is a way to help
children with autism understand difficult social information. By presenting this
social information in a way that is easy for children to understand, it is hoped
that they will better comprehend both the situation and expectations. While the
goal is not to change behavior, improved understanding can certainly result in positive
behavior changes.
are a visual depiction of what is expected
in an environment or activity. Visual rules may also depict what will happen if
that expectation is not met. The purpose of a visual rule is to support positive
and appropriate behavior by providing clear and concrete representation of the expectations.
