Play can provide everyday opportunities to share attention, express preferences, take turns, and communicate. Start with an activity the child already enjoys and use their preferred way of communicating.
Follow the child's interest
Cars, water, music, building blocks, movement, or pretend play can create opportunities for interaction. Join the activity without immediately changing its rules or direction.
Pause and allow time
After a comment, choice, or invitation, pause. Extra time may allow a response through speech, sound, gesture, a look, an action, or a communication device.
- Comment on the activity instead of repeatedly asking questions.
- Imitate an action when the child welcomes it.
- Offer clear choices using words, pictures, or objects.
- Respond to intentional communication in any form.
Keep the activity voluntary
Watch for signs that the child wants to continue, change the activity, pause, or stop. Communication support should make participation clearer and easier.