Ginie Pellet, Montessori Teacher
Profession
Organisation
Action scale of the organisation (European, national, local), if relevant
What does your profession involve?
We teach children aged 2-6Y. We use Makaton as another way of communication and to help children having language delay to be able to communicate.
Are you familiar with AAC methods? Since when?
I’ve been using in it for the last 4 years.
In which situations do you use AAC methods?
We use it at circle time as an activity and with children who are non-verbal.
Which are the benefits of using AAC methods?
It helps children who are less confident or shy to express themselves. It also shows children that there are other ways to communicate bringing awareness to difference.
In which situation have you seen these benefits?
It often happens that children who are shy can’t say NO or STOP to another child who is bothering them. In this case they use the signs to give them the confidence to assert themself.
Do you think AAC methods are well known in the educational field in your country?
In the UK it is used in nurseries but there is a lack of material, training and support to help professional learning the method. What exists is not user friendly.
Do you think that AAC-related practices should be improved? Why?
Yes, there should be more training available and offered for free or at a reasonable price. It would be great to have access to material that would help teachers and children.
Do you have any resources to share (websites, portals, books…)?
Advices to implement AAC methods at school?
I would do it in small groups. Always having an older child present to lead and motivate the younger or new children. I would present new signs in themes: colours, animals, food…I would start with 3 signs and then add on 1 or 2 new ones in the session depending on how it goes. Teaching the methods through games, keeping it short and fun.
It can be a good idea to play song with AAC. Then you have words, music and signs at the same time. Children really enjoy that.