By Michelle Retzlaff, M.A., CCC-SLP
The holidays are approaching. During this time, we find ourselves surrounded by family and friends …and maybe some presents. Catching up with family and friends means that we may:
- Say “hello” and “goodbye” a bit more
- Ask questions to connect (e.g., “How have you been?”, “What presents to you think you’ll get for Christmas or Hanukkah?”, “Did you watch the latest episode of X show?”)
- Have more opportunities to say “thank you” and “please”. As in, “Please pass the potatoes.”
The above are examples of social language skills. We use these skills and words to connect with others all the time, but the holidays allow us even more opportunities to say them. Where can you begin?
- Check out the Social pages on your communication devices. What buttons are already programmed on that page? Maybe you need to add a button here or there.
- Travel plans? Bring a few extra low-tech core boards with you to use while in the car, on a plane, etc. https://www.prc-saltillo.com/classes/aacteletips/#/lessons/KJbq2Tq5ngzPvAcjXhGjlBKdmCTCFdIw
- Locate the HOLIDAY pages within your vocabulary file. Can you find where to say “Happy Holidays”, “Merry Christmas”, “Happy Kwanza” or “Happy Hanukkah”?
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Stories and Strategies fo... - aac, implementation, communication, holidays, hanukkah, christmas, kwanzaa, family