Guides: Education Support and Childcare: Communication

eBooks

Australian Sign Language This is first comprehensive introduction to the linguistics of Auslan, the sign language of Australia. Assuming no prior background in language study, it explores each key aspect of the structure of Auslan, providing an accessible overview of its grammar (how sentences are structured), phonology (the building blocks of signs), morphology (the structure of signs), lexicon (vocabulary), semantics (how meaning is created), and discourse (how Auslan is used in context). The authors also discuss a range of myths and misunderstandings about sign languages, provide an insight into the history and development of Auslan, and show how Auslan is related to other sign languages, such as those used in Britain, the USA and New Zealand. Complete with clear illustrations of the signs in use and useful further reading lists, this is an ideal resource for anyone interested in Auslan, as well as those seeking a clear, general introduction to sign language linguistics.
Publication Date: 2007
Child Development Given that every child is both unique and a competent learner from birth, it is crucial that educators encourage and support each child to thrive in every area of development at their pace and in their own individual ways.
Publication Date: 2018

Websites

EResources - Communication Matters Communication matters commissions research publishes a journal and hosts documents on policy and practice on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
PrAACtical AAC PrAACtical AAC supports a community of professionals and families who are determined to improve the communication and literacy abilities of people with significant communication difficulties
Raising Children Network - Augmented Communication If your child has autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and difficulties with language or communication, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems can add to his existing ways of communicating, including his speech, gestures or writing. They can also give your child new and different ways of communicating
Scope Resources Scope has a collection of free resources available for you to download. Topics include access and inclusion, communication and health/wellbeing.

Books and DVD's in the Library

Augmentative and Alternative Communication As AAC use continues to flourish and new technology revolutionizes the field, tomorrow's service providers need current, authoritative information on AAC for children and adults with communication disorders. This is the foundational text for SLPs, OTs, PTs, teachers, and other professionals in clinical and educational settings, this fourth edition is a definitive introduction to AAC processes, interventions, and technologies that help people best meet their daily communication needs.
Publication Date: 2013
Teaching Communication Skills to Students with Severe Disabilities How can educators and therapists support effective communication for students with severe and multiple disabilities? Today's best research strategies are in the new third edition of this trusted textbook and teaching guide. Current and future education professionals will get up-to-date information and practical guidance on the entire process of supporting communication for students of all ages, from assessing their communication skills to involving peers and adults in intervention.
Publication Date: 2015
The Social Skills Picture Book The nature of autism -- Teaching social skills -- About social skills picture books -- Making your own social skills picture book -- References -- Communication related skills -- Play related skills -- Emotion related skills. "Seeing is learning. Dr. Jed Baker embraces this philosophy in this a dynamic teaching tool that engages the attention and motivation of students who need a little extra help learning appropriate social skills by using pictures of children mastering skills such as communication, play, emotion, and empathy."
Publication Date: 2006
Supporting children with DLD : a user guide about developmental language disorder With activities, prompts and sample questions, this is an essential resource to enable adults to understand the reality of living with DLD, helping children feel heard and respected, as well as providing a solid foundation for tailoring support to individual needs.
Publication Date: 2022

Online Videos

Reaching Ricky Ricky is eleven and has severe autism. Phoebe Caldwell has been working with adults and children with learning difficulties for over thirty years. She uses a communication method called Intensive Interaction to get through to people like Ricky.

Online Journals

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Provides information via original reports on the development of communication competence in persons with severe speech and/or communication impairments. Integrates theory, technology, research & systems development.
Journal of International Special Needs Education Provides educators of children & youth with special needs with information pertaining to the field of special education throughout the world; Contains research & evaluation reports, literature reviews, policy & position papers, program descriptions, etc.