communication and language

We use the verbal behavior approach to teach communication and language skills to children who are non-vocal, have language delays or struggle with communication disorders.  

Using the verbal behavior approach to language development, we look at communication in terms of function. Even non-vocal communication serves a specific function for the ‘speaker,’ in relation to their environment. Every communication exchange is considered a specific behavior, which can be shaped, taught and reinforced. The key to this approach is that verbal behavior is categorized differently based on its function, so that even if the behavior looks the same, it may be used for a different reason and under different circumstances. For example, the word ‘water’ may be used to request water in one situation, but it can also be used to label ‘water’ when seeing a water bottle, or used to answer the question ‘what is something you drink?’

Looking at communication and language from this unique angle allows us to assess a child and identify where ‘gaps’ in language development may be, and design programs to teach language across all verbal operants in a way that mirrors the way typical language development occurs. A child may be great at labeling, but have difficulty requesting for things spontaneously or engaging in conversation with friends. Or, a child may have a strong understanding of language (receptive language), but struggle with expressing their wants and needs, labeling and even repeating spoken words.

Non-vocal children usually need to begin with requesting for things they need and want and when that is addressed from a behavioral lens, we are able to use the principles of motivation, shaping and positive reinforcement to develop early communication behaviors. For some children, that may be in the form of signs, pictures or communication devices. It is fairly common for vocal language to emerge when using the verbal behavior approach, especially when the program is individualized to the child and carefully monitored through data analysis.

What about Speech Therapy?

Teaching communication and language through verbal behavior does not take the place of speech & language therapy. Rather, it complements it. Behavior analysis assesses and treats based on function, while speech therapy assesses and treats based on form (what language looks and sounds like). If you have speech therapists working with your child, we typically collaborate with them and work together as part of your child’s team.