The function behind a behavior must be found before a plan can be made to reduce a behavior. The function is determined by performing a functional assessment. If the individual emits the behavior in order to obtain a preferred item, then this behavior is labeled as “access to reinforcement” or “tangible maintained.” Once the function is identified, the individual can learn more appropriate ways to gain access to preferred items. Functional communication training can be used to teach carrier phrases such as: “I want” and “can I have.” If you want to learn more, contact Cogwheel Clinic today! Email us at contact@cogwheelclinic.com or give us a call at (425)-748-7000.
Month: June 2017
What is “self-talk”?
In Speech-Language Pathology, “self-talk” is a technique to promote your child’s speech and language development. To use “self-talk” at home, narrate what your child is seeing, hearing, touching, or doing out loud. Speak to your child’s level (keep it simple!), and don’t expect your child to reply. For example, as your child is making and eating breakfast “pour milk” or “mmmm, eating cereal”. If you want to learn more, contact Cogwheel Clinic today! Email us at contact@cogwheelclinic.com or give us a call at (425)-748-7000.
“OWL” in for Language!
Use the acronym “O.W.L” (from the Hanen Centre) to let your child lead in communication interactions. First, Observe: Notice what your child is looking at or what he/she is interested in. Next, Wait: Give your child some space to start an interaction or respond to you. Lean forward and look expectantly! Last, Listen: Pay close attention to all words and sounds. OWL to open up opportunities for communication! If you want to learn more, contact Cogwheel Clinic today! Email us at contact@cogwheelclinic.com or give us a call at (425)-748-7000.
Why why why?! The Importance of Questions
Why do speech-language pathologists care about questions? Did you know that children develop their grasp on asking and answering question words in a pretty predictable order? Usually, “what” comes first, followed by “who” and “where”. “When” is a tougher question word, and “why” is the toughest of all. Mastering question words lays important language groundwork! If you want to learn more, contact Cogwheel Clinic today! Email us at contact@cogwheelclinic.com or give us a call at (425)-748-7000.
Beads: A Surprisingly Dynamic Activity
Beading is a great way to warm up the fingers for fine motor exercises! Beading can be graded to fit the individual, whether that be easy (large wooden beads on a pipe cleaner), to difficult (small plastic beads on a thread). This activity not only requires pincer grasp, manual manipulation, and motor planning – but hand eye coordination as well! If you want to learn more, contact Cogwheel Clinic today! Email us at contact@cogwheelclinic.com or give us a call at (425)-748-7000!