Session 1 of 2 

*NB You will need to attend both session 1 and session 2

Course summary

Increasingly schools are learning to support children who are at the earliest stages of communication development. They may use or repeat occasional words or use a combination of methods to express themselves e.g., vocalising, looking, facial expression, reaching, gesture, leading, signing, vocalising, using objects.  These children may not yet have developed a consistent way to communicate effectively.  This may lead to frustration and anxiety.   

This course runs over 2 sessions and is designed to equip the learner to have confidence in supporting the communication of skills of children at early stages of communication.

Trainers- This training is delivered by members of the Speech and Language Therapy Service.

Content

Stage 1 session

 • What is early communication?

 • How does the child already communicate, with whom and why?

 • What might be the next steps?

 • Understanding your role as the child’s communication partner

 • Key strategies to support communication • Increasing reasons and opportunities for communication

 • Implementing a key strategy with the child you are supporting

 

Stage 2 sessions: - (attend one of the following two….)

2a:  “Supporting children who are early communicators: Early interaction skills” – this session is for those working with children who are still learning about sharing a space or activity with another person.  It will cover strategies you can use at pre-intentional or early intentional communication levels, such as intensive interaction, people games and making simple choices between objects.

OR

2b: “Supporting children who are early communicators: Using tools (AAC)” – this session is for those working with children who are starting to make choices, make requests or comment.  They will be beginning to recognise visuals and communication tools (e.g. photos, choice boards, now/next, communication boards).

Course dates: NB you will need to attend both session 1 and 2

Stage 1 sessions: Tues 19.09.2023 or Wed 20.09.2023 3:30-4:30pm

 

Stage 2 sessions (either, depending on need of child you are working with):

• Early interaction skills: Tuesday 14.11.2023 3:30-4:30pm

OR

• Using tools (AAC): Wed 15.11.2023 3:30-4:30pm

 

 

Venue: Remote via Microsoft Teams

 

Who should attend? Training pairs of a Teaching assistant + either teacher or SENCO supporting a child at the earliest stages of communication, as described above.