How to start teaching a nonverbal child with Down syndrome through online sessions?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am a SPED teacher. Currently, I am going to teach a non-verbal child presenting with Down's syndrome. I want to know where to start. I do not know where and how to start teaching the child. It is my first time to handle a non-verbal child. Please suggest.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You can have a one-line answer. Create a situation where he has to communicate verbally. Get their favorite things out of reach and do not respond to nonverbal modes like finger-pointing. Use finger puppet and talk. Give them some time to interact and be silent until for saying a statement. Give an exaggerated explanation about the lexical items. For example, if it is mango, say ooo mmm very sweet. Now I am going to eat it. Do you want to eat it? Then be silent and do not say anything after that for a while. Even a slight or little attempt from his side has to be encouraged and positive reinforcement should be given after the response. Give claps and say very good. These steps will help you to start.