AAC
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, which refers to methods used to supplement or replace speech or writing for individuals with communication impairments. AAC includes tools like picture cards, communication boards, speech-generating devices, and sign language. It enhances communication and fosters inclusion for people with special needs.
AVT
AVT stands for Auditory verbal therapy. It is used to teach children with hearing aid/cochlear implant to use their hearing to process spoken language without relying on visual cues such as lip reading or sign language.
Shaping
It involves reinforcing successive approximations toward a desired behavior. This process allows individuals to learn complex behaviors by reinforcing small steps or “shaping” the behavior gradually.
OPT
Oral Placement Therapy (OPT) is a specialized approach used in speech therapy to address speech and language difficulties, particularly those related to oral-motor skills and sensory processing. It focuses on improving the coordination, strength, and movement of the oral structures (lips, tongue, jaw, and soft palate) to enhance speech and feeding abilities.
Jasper
Jasper is a model to plan interventions for children with special education needs by using joint attention, symbolic play, engagement, and regulation.
Prompt
PROMPT, which stands for Prompts for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets, is a specialized therapeutic technique used in speech therapy designed to help individuals with speech disorders such as childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) to improve their motor planning and coordination for speech production.
Chaining
Chaining is a behavioral strategy used to teach students with autism complex behaviors by breaking them down into smaller sequential steps. For example, teaching sandwich-making involves selecting bread, spreading peanut butter and jelly, and assembling. This method fosters skill mastery, promoting independence in diverse activities.
Experiential Learning
Experiential learning is a valuable approach in behavioral therapy, emphasizing hands-on, interactive experiences to facilitate personal growth and positive behavioral change.
Playtime Learning
Teaching by incorporating playtime into the learning process is a great way to make education more engaging and enjoyable. It is particularly important for kids who need to develop their symbolic play and social communication skills.
Hanen Approach
The Hanen approach has pioneered a shift in early language intervention by prioritizing parents to best assist children. In this approach, parents play a central role in designing activities for their children.
Observational Learning
This learning process involves acquiring new behaviors or modifying existing ones by observing others. For example, a child learns to tie shoes by watching a parent. This process allows for the acquisition of new skills or behaviors through observation rather than direct experience.
Articulation Therapy
Articulation therapy is a type of speech therapy that focuses on the correct production of speech sounds. It is designed to help individuals improve their articulation, which refers to the physical ability to produce specific speech sounds accurately.
Counter Conditioning
A technique employed in the treatment of phobias and similar conditions in humans, in which undesirable but beneficial behavior is positively reinforced. Counter conditioning replaces undesired responses with positive ones. Simplified example: someone with social anxiety listens to their favorite music during social situations. Over time, they associate social interactions with enjoyment, diminishing anxiety. This technique utilizes positive associations to modify behavior, fostering healthier responses to triggers.
Gestalt Language Processing
It deals with the child imitating phrases he or she previously heard (delayed echolalia). A child then breaks down the phrase as he or she learns the meaning of the individual words. The child uses those individual words to build other, novel phrases and sentences to communicate.
Strength-based Learning
It allows for open communication, encouraging individuals to identify value and assemble their strengths and capacities. The strength-based approach allows a person to see themselves at their best.
School Readiness Program
A school readiness program specifically tailored for children with special needs is designed to prepare them for the transition to formal education. It emphasizes developing cognitive, social, and adaptive skills necessary for successful integration into school settings.
Analytic Language Learning
Analytic language acquisition is language learning that starts at the single word level which builds to phrases and eventually sentences.
Floor Time Therapy
It is a developmental and relationship-based model used in the treatment of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental challenges. It integrates elements of developmental, behavioral, and relationship-based interventions.
Activity-based Learning
Activity-based learning is a dynamic approach where learning is achieved through active participation in tasks or activities. This method cultivates creative thinking, problem-solving abilities, and engagement among children. By immersing students in practical experiences, rather than passive instruction, it fosters a deeper understanding of concepts and encourages active learning.
Technology-assisted Learning
Technology-assisted learning, often abbreviated as TAL or EdTech (Educational Technology), refers to the integration of technology tools and platforms to enhance the teaching and learning process and communication. It encompasses a wide range of digital resources and applications designed to support and supplement traditional educational methods for special education needs.
Fluency Shaping therapy
Fluency Shaping Therapy is an approach used to treat stuttering or fluency disorders in speech. The primary goal of this therapy is to help individuals achieve more fluent speech by modifying specific aspects of their speech production.
Positive Behavioral Support
PBS (Positive Behavioral Support) takes a proactive rather than a reactive approach to behavior. PBS focuses on understanding and addressing the underlying causes of challenging behaviors. It emphasizes identifying and reinforcing positive behavior to prevent challenges. PBS is evidence-based, promoting positive behavior in schools, homes, and communities.
LD Training Program
Learning disability training involves education and skill development for individuals, educators, and professionals to better understand, support, and address the needs of individuals with learning disabilities.