I think one of the things I like best about the Communication Matrix is how it breaks expressive communication into recognizable layers of competence, while also recognizing that these layers are fluid. Just because we reach one level of competence in some situations, it does not mean we never resort to previous forms of communication. Although I am able to communicate with language most of the time, when I don't feel well, or I am stressed, I might communicate in a less formal manner. The same is true for for my 20 year old son Dylan. His ability to communicate at one level or another shifts depending on how he is feeling, the environment he is in, the supports around him, and even if the level of expectation is matched to his ability in the moment. Over the past year, he has moved into using formal language for refusal. That is, he can "say, No!" He's got the sign, the concept, and even the ability to adjust the intensity of his sign, depending on how strongly he feels about the refusal. Yet, there are other times, we still get the growl, or the pushing away, or even curling into a ball to express refusal. I have come to believe that in these states, he is most likely to be experiencing pain or stress, that reduces his ability to communicate at the language level. In the same way, I would not want someone pressing me, when I don't feel up to "language", I do not demand "language" from Dylan in these situations, recognizing that either one of us would likely just express a stronger refusal at an informal layer, with what some might call a behavior. I feel respecting what he is saying, must come before demanding a higher level of expression. With that respect, comes the opportunity for further communication exchanges.
Kimberly Lauger - 4/11/2017
Wonderful insight, mom!!!!I am an SLP, and feel it is important to consider how naturally developing people think and act and connect to out therapy. For example, I am able to appropriately communicate no, wait, stop, etc.- however, when I am internally irritated or frustrated/stressed about something in my life/at that moment, my ability to appropriately communicate no wait, stop, etc. can change (into a less controlled manner).
Additionally, something to think about for the one that posted the questions....language is very taxing and exhausting for some of our students. My students know when and/or with who they can get away with a lazier form of communication, or/and, that the expectation in some situations have not been as high compared to other situations/with certain people. With that, it sounds like your student's communication would befit from a a behavior intervention plan that addresses inappropriate communication.
fkriegs - 4/12/2017
Wonderful insight, mom!!!!I am an SLP, and feel it is important to consider how naturally developing people think and act and connect to out therapy. For example, I am able to appropriately communicate no, wait, stop, etc.- however, when I am internally irritated or frustrated/stressed about something in my life/at that moment, my ability to appropriately communicate no wait, stop, etc. can change (into a less controlled manner).
Additionally, something to think about for the one that posted the questions....language is very taxing and exhausting for some of our students. My students know when and/or with who they can get away with a lazier form of communication, or/and, that the expectation in some situations have not been as high compared to other situations/with certain people. With that, it sounds like your student's communication would befit from a a behavior intervention plan that addresses inappropriate communication.
fkriegs - 4/12/2017