Using augmentative and alternative communication approaches to promote participation of preschoolers during book reading: a pilot study

Abstract

Literacy development is important, especially for individuals using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Early exposure to reading and writing through joint book reading is important in this development. This article describes a project examining the impact of an interactive book reading programme on four preschool-aged children and their mothers. Two of the children were typically developing and two relied on nonverbal communication means. The program used AAC techniques and adaptations to promote the participation of all children. The children's participation was examined in the group and during book reading in the home before and after the group programme.