A Gestural Communication Program for Severely and Profoundly Handicapped Children

Abstract
A communication program involving 21 severely and profoundly mentally retarded children was developed. All participants had failed to progress in previous therapeutic attempts directed towards communication. The success of the trial program led to its continuation the following school year. The average number of signals acquired increased from 5.5 in the trial program (Phase I) to 11.8 over the duration of a year (Phase II). Spontaneous verbalization and vocalization increased dramatically, and several participants learned to combine signals. Seizures, medication, and ability to walk were not good indicators of final progress, but successful toilet training, preprogram vocalization, and verbal behavior proved to be strong predictors of success.

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