Notes on Transcript: Tessie's Communication Book

Introduction

• Focus: Tessie's use of a communication book to express her needs and wants.
• Main Goal: Enhance Tessie's ability to communicate effectively with a limited vocabulary.

Tessie's Communication Challenges

• Tessie has about four primary spoken words.
• Words include "MA," "-", and "go".
• Limited verbal communication skills make it difficult for Tessie to convey her needs.

Use of the Communication Book

• The book is a tool to help Tessie communicate.
• Structure:
  • Contains laminated pictures representing various items and activities.
  • Strips of velcro to hold frequently used pictures.
  • Pictures for foods, daily activities, and needs (e.g., naps).
• Tessie constructs sentences using picture strips (e.g., "I want oranges").

Tessie's Progress

• Tessie has been learning to use the book in therapy sessions.
• Demonstrates effective use of the book at home and school.
• Initially hesitant to use the book at school.
• Showed significant progress and engagement at home.

Practical Examples

• Tessie's frequent request: "I want oranges."
• Used the book to request various items like pizza and water during outings.
• Demonstrated understanding and preference accuracy using the book over physical gestures.

Observations and Challenges

• Tessie's enthusiasm for using the book is evident.
• Family members need to rely on the book to understand Tessie's true desires.
• The book reveals Tessie's underestimated language skills.
• Plans to use the book consistently during school breaks for continuous learning.

Conclusion

• Tessie's communication book is a significant aid in enhancing her communication.
• Encourages further use and adaptation to ensure Tessie's needs are met efficiently.
• Highlights the importance of tools like communication books in supporting individuals with limited verbal skills.