title: Early augmented language intervention for children with developmental delays: potential secondary motor outcomes.
abstract: This exploratory study examined the potential secondary outcome of an early augmented language intervention that incorporates speech-generating devices (SGD) on motor skill use for children with developmental delays. The data presented are from a longitudinal study by Romski and colleagues. Toddlers in the augmented language interventions were either required (Augmented Communication-Output; AC-O) or not required (Augmented Communication-Input; AC-I) to use the SGD to produce an augmented word. Three standardized assessments and five event-based coding schemes measured the participants' language abilities and motor skills. Toddlers in the AC-O intervention used more developmentally appropriate motor movements and became more accurate when using the SGD to communicate than toddlers in the AC-I intervention. AAC strategies, interventionist/parent support, motor learning opportunities, and physical feedback may all contribute to this secondary benefit of AAC interventions that use devices.
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, Georgia State University , Atlanta, GA , USA.
authors.forename: Ani S
authors.initials: AS
authors.lastname: Whitmore
authors.forename: Mary Ann
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Romski
authors.forename: Rose A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Sevcik
mesh_terms: D002675:Child, Preschool; D003143:Communication Devices for People with Disabilities; D002658:Developmental Disabilities / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D018479:Early Intervention, Educational; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009048:Motor Skills; D016896:Treatment Outcome
keywords: Augmentative and alternative communication; Developmental delays; Early intervention; Motor development; Motor skills