Teaching Communication Skills to Students with Severe Disabilities

Developed by a highly respected expert, this practical guide has the comprehensive, research-based information professionals need to help students with disabilities realize the benefits of effective communication: more control over their lives and stronger bonds with friends and family.
This book shows readers how to analyze environments for their communicative value, assess the communication skills of students from preschool to high school, teach specific skills such as gaining attention and requesting, make informed choices about AAC, and guide peers and adults in supporting students with disabilities.

In this expanded second edition, readers will find timely new material on students with disabilities in inclusive classrooms, the connection between literacy skills and general communication skills, the critical role of communication in strengthening social relationships, national policies about the communicative rights of individuals with severe disabilities, and a new tool that helps connect intervention with assessment.
With this popular resource, educators and therapists will provide the best possible support for students as they learn and use communication skills.