Assessing the Functions of Behavior: The Importance of Understanding Communicative Intent

• By: Cecelia McCarton, MD Mary Jane Weiss, PhD, BCBA-D Ivy Feldman, PhD Jackie Hickey, MA, BCBA The McCarton Foundation
• October 1st, 2009
• 3603    0

Autism is associated with significant impairments in language/communication, deficits in social interaction and restricted interests/stereotypical behavior (American Psychiatric Association, 1994). Learners with autism have difficulty in all aspects of communication, including receptive...

Providing a United Front

• By: Sheree Incorvaia New York Institute of Technology Vocational Independence Program
• July 1st, 2009
• 1243    0

As an educator for the past 20 years, I have been afforded a unique view of the parent- student-teacher relationship. As a parent myself I have been on two sides of this triangle. At times, I can honestly say, it has not been easy. I always wanted the best for my child and believed that as a parent...

Building Communication Skills in Non-Verbal Children with Autism Using Augmentative or Alternative Systems

• By: Cindy Alterson, PhD, BCBA Jennifer Naughton Basch, MS, CCC/SLP Devereux Millwood Learning Center
• January 1st, 2009
• children, communication, nonspeaking
• 1959    0

According to the National Research Council (2001), approximately one-third to one-half of children and adults with autism do not use speech functionally. When verbal speech or gestures are insufficient for an individual with autism to communicate their needs and wants, augmentative or alternative...