Sometimes children with Down Syndrome can present as reluctant communicators. They may be shy or have very little intelligible speech. A good way of overcoming this communication barrier and improving your child’s communication competence is by introducing AAC. AAC stands for alternative and augmentative (or supportive) communication.

Lamh sign language is a form of AAC as it supports communication and serves as a bridge between a child’s understanding of language and use of language. Another type of AAC is using a communication device such as the BigMack. The BigMack is a very simple communication device that is also a switch. Single messages of up to 20 seconds can be recorded onto the switch which is activated when it is touched. It is light-weight, robust, uses batteries and can easily be transported between school and home. Most important, it gives a child a voice and helps to build communication confidence.

A BigMack can be used for a huge numbers of activities, such as:

 Greeting and saying goodbye
 Indicating acceptance / rejection
 Requesting activities (especially when in preschool)
 Asking for objects, such as toys or painting equipment
 Making comments to friends and teachers
 Taking messages between home and school
 To sing a song or say lines in nursery rhymes e.g. e-i-e-i-o in Old MacDonald.
 To let someone know “I need a break”
 Directing activities (such as “Simon Says” games)
 Record messages that let others know what has been happening that day, or over the weekend, i.e. my news.
 To indicate ‘more’ of a favourite activity
 To indicate ‘stop’ in an activity
 Tell a joke
 Call the family pet
 And much, much more!

BigMack communication devices are available from the following suppliers for about £98:

QED or Quality Enabling Devices - www.qedonline.co.uk
TFH or www.specialneedstoys.com

© Marinet Van Vuren, DSC 2010

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