Pediatric Speech and Communication, AAC, Augmentative Communication, Communication Devices

Communication Devices and Aids

“Talkables,” “Communication Builders,” and “Picture Communicators” are some of the communication devices and aids offered today. Many of the devices are electronic talking and recording message devices, used to record and play back messages that define wants and needs, or respond to simple yes/no questions. These devices are available with different numbers of messages recordable at various lengths. Some are wearable around the waist or hanging from a lanyard around the neck.

Communication aids in this category are of particular importance for “emerging communicators,” those children who need and want to participate in interactive situations, but whose ability to communicate orally is limited. By making a choice (pressing a button) in response to a question, the user can participate in decisions about food, activities, clothing and their own comfort. Such systems allow non-verbal persons to participate more fully in activities with others, and help special needs children in their social interactions throughout the day.

These communication devices provide solutions that range from a simple “yes/no” level to more sophisticated multi-level tools that allow users to communicate needs, tell stories, sequence activities and link sentences together. Pictorial icons may be customized and individualized messages recorded for playback when a choice is made.

As the user learns new skills, communication choices can be refined and additional levels may be added. Some of the units include the ability to expand to 16 different icons at the highest level, representing 16 choices in a single frame. These special aids help people express themselves, and may increase school performance, social interaction and feelings of self-worth.

Oral Motor Exercisers and Other Assistive Devices for Speech Therapy

The Rehabmart selection includes oral motor exercisers and chewable tools. These allow for the practice of biting and chewing, which may assist children with the urge to chew constantly, or with other motor problems. Oral motor exercises are important for lip and breath control, as well as muscle tone, which are important for proper speech and safer feeding. Oral motor therapy is also useful in assisting adults with aphasia and other language deficits resulting from brain trauma or neurological disorders.

Rehabmart also offers speech assistive devices that allow users to listen to their own voices, and mirror assistive technology devices to help speakers visualize the formation of words and speech (which also encourages self-attention during therapy sessions). There is also a “ladder lights” tool that lights up more fully at louder sounds, to help teach volume control and breath control.

Kits for Use by Speech Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Special Education Teachers and Parents

The Rehabmart selection includes portable kits suitable for itinerant speech-language professionals to help ensure that all of the proper tools are at hand for assessments and/or therapy sessions designed to help restore a patient’s ability to communicate.

There is also a portable “rehab cabinet” for use by all types of therapists, special educators and parents who work with patients of all ages with multiple disorders. The contents of the cabinet may be customized with items that work on fine-motor skills, individual self-care, oral-motor skills, attention-memory sequencing, hemianopia, eye-hand coordination, motor planning and sensory issues.

And there is a games/socialization kit to help children explore senses while working on gross motor skills, color recognition, feelings and emotions — all while having fun and interacting with peers.

Should you need assistance choosing the right product for your needs, do not hesitate to contact us. We’d be happy to help.

Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO

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