Communication
Leaders can use these documents and resources to extend their knowledge about communication and communication strategies and supports. Additionally, the resources offer guidance for using the Communication Navigation Essentials toolkit to facilitate training and professional development with their teams.
Downloads
Discover ways to encourage your team to explore the toolkit and how to use the toolkit for professional development and training.
Promoting Communication Toolkit to Your Team
Access this guidance document to promote the toolkit to your team, colleagues, and others who work with youth with IDD and behavioral health needs to enhance their communication supports and interventions.
Using Communication Toolkit for Training and Professional Development
Access this guidance document to identify ways to use the toolkit videos, tools, and resources in professional development, meetings, or training activities.
Tools and Resources
Use the following resources and tools to further your skills and enhance your team’s knowledge.
- Autism Internet Modules (AIM)
AIM offers free online training to help support people with autism and other developmental disabilities. Two modules that provide information related to the Communication Navigation Essentials toolkit include:
- Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
This module defines PECS, outlines the steps to effectively implement this evidence-based practice, and provides specific examples for its use across settings and age groups.
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Autism
AAC refers to a constellation of tools, strategies, and techniques that are used to supplement existing communication or replace communication modalities lost due to illness or disease. Learn about AAC, the benefits of AAC for people with autism, and support strategies.
- Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
- Assistive Technology Internet Modules (ATIM)
ATIM offers information and training about assistive technology using case studies and instructional videos. Two modules that provide information related to the Communication Navigation Essentials toolkit include:
- Overview of Assistive Technology
This module provides information about specific AT devices and services, implementation, and impact of AT devices and services across various environments.
- AT Considerations in the IEP Process
This module will assist educational professionals and IEP team members in considering and determining student needs for assistive technology.
- Overview of Assistive Technology
- Communication Matrix Assessment
This assessment tool helps families and professionals understand the communication status, progress, and needs of anyone functioning at the early stages of communication or using forms of communication other than speaking or writing. This is a free or low-cost tool.
- American Speech-Langauge-Hearing Association (ASHA) Website
Explore the resources available on the ASHA website. The site provides a wide range of information including speech and language development, speech disorders, social communication, and the role of the SLP in schools.