Building Better Speech Manual

One, of the three, diagnosing criteria for autism are impairments in communication. This is an excerpt from the DSM-IV:

“Qualitative impairments in communication as manifested by at least one of the following:
(1) delay in, or total lack of, the development of spoken language (not accompanied by an attempt to compensate through alternative modes of communication such as gesture or mime);
(2) in individuals with adequate speech, marked impairment in the ability to initiate or sustain a conversation with others;
(3) stereotyped and repetitive use of language or idiosyncratic language;
(4) lack of varied, spontaneous make-believe play or social imitative play appropriate to developmental level”

Most people with autism will partake in speech therapy at some point in their lives to help them develop their communication abilities. Although speech therapy is important, it is not going to be maximally effective if there isn’t follow-up at home. Speech therapists should teach families how to help their child at home and in the community, but sometimes this just isn’t enough. It is important for families to read about and understand things they can do at home to help their child communicate in the most effective way. The book “Building Better Speech” is one of the resources out there.

In this manual families can learn how to identify, assess, monitor and correct speech concerns with their child. This book will not replace your child’s need for good quality speech therapy, but it will help you learn techniques to help your child. By being informed, and trying to figure out what works for you and your child, you will be a much better team member and be able to effectively collaborate with the specialist working with your child. The most effective treatment does not come from directions given to families by “specialists”; it comes from families and specialists working together to create a treatment plan. Building Better Speech – Press Release

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2. What is your experience in collaborating with speech therapists in regards to carry-over into the home environment?