Total Communication in the Classroom

What does total communication in the classroom actually look like? It can seem daunting! How do you take a hodgepodge of visuals, low-tech talkers, and high-tech AAC devices and turn them into a functional means of communication for all of your students?

The answer is to start small. Look at one daily activity like circle time, snack time, or centers and provide a new accessible way for one of your students to communicate during that time. Whether it’s to ask a question, make a choice, comment, or socialize, you’ll be increasing engagement and growing their communication. After the first activity becomes integrated into your daily routine, add another! Slowly build total communication into every part of the day.

The video below provides real-life examples of how to implement different modes of communication and a variety of devices and visuals into the classroom environment.