The prayer experience of youngsters using augmentative and alternative communication in haredi (Jewish ultra-orthodox) educational settings

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study examines the prayer experience of haredi (ultra-orthodox) youngsters who are unable to speak because of complex developmental motor limitations. The participants in the study are assisted by augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in order to communicate with their environment. AAC allows children and adults with complex communication needs to communicate with their environment by means of communication systems adapted to their own personal needs.This study seeks to characterize the prayer experience of youngsters studying in haredi institutions who use AAC. The study seeks to answer the following questions: 1) What is the prayer experience of AAC youngsters in religious schools? 2) What are the challenges and difficulties faced in prayer by youngsters using AAC? 3) How do youngsters who use AAC deal with their difficulties with prayer? The importance of this study lies in the rich and complex view it will provide educators and therapists of the inner world of AAC users. Findings can enable therapists and educators working with AAC users to become familiar with how the youngsters cope with prayer in the home and educational environment and to make this a more productive experience for them.