Meet Mathieu
Meet Mathieu. Mathieu is a nonverbal ASD child who communicates through AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication). A bright and energetic child, he initially struggled to follow verbal instructions. His journey at the Omega Center for People with Disabilities has been one of patience, persistence, and growth.
Phase 1: The Challenge
At the start, Mathieu found it difficult to follow directions without physical prompts. Simple tasks, such as transitioning between activities or responding to requests, required direct physical guidance.
Phase 2: The Need for Physical Prompts
To help Mathieu engage, caregivers and therapists at Omega Center continued using physical prompts – like guiding his hands or positioning his body – to encourage responsiveness. This was always accompanied by clear verbal communication as well. While the physical prompts were effective, the goal was to help him transition toward independence in understanding and following verbal instructions.
Phase 3: The Right Approach
With a combination of personalized speech and behavior therapy, structured routines, and reinforcement techniques, Mathieu began making steady progress. The Omega Center team, along with his supportive parents at home, worked consistently to create an environment where he felt comfortable, engaged and motivated.
Phase 4: Significant Improvement
Through targeted interventions, tools, and activities, Mathieu gradually relied less on physical prompts and responded more to verbal prompting.
A key factor in his progress was early diagnosis and intervention, consistent therapy, educational support, the use of AAC, and, ultimately, the involvement and support of his parents, all of which contributed to his steady improvement.
His ability to follow verbal instructions drastically improved, showcasing his growing confidence and communication skills.
Phase 5: The Result – Independence in Following Instructions
Today, Mathieu follows verbal instructions without needing physical prompting. AAC has been a game-changer in his journey, allowing him to connect with others and navigate the world more independently.
🎉 We’re So Proud of You, Mathieu! 🎉
His journey at Omega Center serves as an inspiring example of how the right support system, patience, and persistence – combined with the power of AAC – can lead to remarkable progress.