UNDERSTANDING CONNECTION AND COMPLIANCE With AAC
As parents a buzz word you hear often is "connection over compliance." It's a guiding principle that holds immense significance in how we approach communication support for our kids. We are going to discuss the ins and outs of it in this blog post.
DEFINING CONNECTION AND COMPLIANCE
Connection:
This revolves around nurturing a strong relationship between your child and their communication partners. It's about fostering rapport, understanding, and meaningful interactions.
Compliance:
This involves task-oriented expectations, where we might ask for specific responses, asks lots of questions, or request specific actions actions from your child.
WHAT DOES THIS LOOK LIKE WITH AAC?
Compliance-Based Interactions
In this scenario, a communication partner might engage your child with direct questions or instructions aimed at eliciting specific responses or actions. Asking “What color is this?” "Where does this go?” or saying things like “put it here,” “that’s not where it goes,” “say “more” etc.
Connection-Based Interactions
In this scenario, a communication partner is focused on engaging with your child's interests, creating enjoyable communication experiences, and waiting for their responses or cues. You will hear more comments and silence (wait time) in these interactions.
WHAT CAN THIS LOOK LIKE?
Imagine playing with Legos. A compliance-based approach might involve giving specific instructions or waiting for your child to request a piece. However, a connection-based approach would encourage communication through comments, sharing thoughts, and participating in the building process together.
DON’T WE NEED TO TEACH THOUGH?
While there's value in targeted teaching and specific tasks, it's equally crucial to infuse these with connection-based activities. It's like finding the perfect mix of structured learning and engaging, enjoyable interactions. When you are just starting with AAC, I encourage you to lean more heavily into connection-based approaches, as they create an environment in which kids are excited to learn. This approach shapes how your child perceives their communication tools, making them more than just devices for answering questions.
BUT WE STARTED WITH COMPLIANCE, NOW WHAT?
For those of you accustomed to more directive methods, don't worry! Transitioning towards connection-based activities can be a gradual, rewarding shift that enhances your child's communication experiences. Start by looking at your current communication with the AAC device. Is there one time during your day that you could take time to make it more connection-based vs. compliance-based? Start there and then add in new opportunities as you get more comfortable.
Understanding and practicing "connection over compliance" in AAC intervention can profoundly impact how your child engages in communication. It's about fostering connections while incorporating structured learning, creating a balance that supports both growth and enjoyable interactions for your child.
Lauren Greenlief