Modelling Language and Reducing Prompts

We begin by modelling first, showing her how language is used so she can see and hear it in action. After modelling, we give her time to wait and process, allowing her the space she needs to respond without feeling rushed. As her confidence grows, we gradually reduce support by fading prompts so she can take more ownership of her communication. The goal of this process is independence, helping her use language on her own in a meaningful and confident way.

Who Should Model?

Modelling is important because it shows Giulietta how words are used in real and meaningful situations. By seeing adults use her communication system throughout the day, she learns that the device is a powerful and reliable way to express herself, not just for requesting but also for sharing ideas, feelings, and experiences. Consistent modelling reduces pressure for her to respond, builds her understanding of language, and supports her confidence to communicate independently over time.

All support workers model sentences on Giulietta’s iPad as often as possible during everyday moments. When she is learning a new core word, we pair it with a real object, showing the item as we touch the corresponding button, so she can connect the word to its meaning. After learning the word, we model full sentences rather than single words. We make sure to always follow through with what she says so Giulietta understands that her communication has meaning and real impact.

Give Giulietta Time to Process

After modeling, we pause and wait, avoiding prompting further. This silence shows Giulietta that her response is expected and valued. Since her processing time is longer, we give her extra time before repeating or rephrasing. This patience communicates that we believe she understands and that what she has to say matters. We also recognize that progress does not always happen immediately. Even after waiting, she sometimes does not understand, and we may need to provide further explanation or offer additional support to help her communicate successfully.

Reducing Support Over Time

We reduce support gradually to build Giulietta’s independence. We may start with physical guidance, move to verbal prompts like “What do you want/need to do?”, and then shift to silent waiting. During lunch preparation, Giulietta now independently forms full sentences like “I want mushroom pizza.” We’re currently focusing on helping her expand these sentences by adding action or connecting words, such as “I want mushroom [on my] pizza."

Encouraging Independence

As Giulietta’s independence increases, we encourage her to initiate communication rather than simply respond to prompts or make requests. We create opportunities for her to communicate through choices, routines, or shared interests and then step back to give her space to respond. In addition, we have sit-down learning sessions so that these concepts and strategies are reinforced, ensuring she has the support she needs and is not expected to know what to say without guidance.