No AccessPerspectives on Augmentative and Alternative CommunicationArticle1 Dec 2012

Training Partners in AAC in Culturally Diverse Families

Gloria Soto

Department of Special Education, San Francisco State UniversitySan Francisco, CA

Abstract

This article focuses on culturally responsive AAC practice. Including parents in the process is essential to ensure that children with significant communication impairments receive the most appropriate communication tool and the most effective intervention strategies. Often, the roles expected or demanded from parents may conflict with the values, expectations, and abilities of many families, particularly those from culturally diverse backgrounds, which may contribute to low levels of participation. If clinicians are to work effectively with families from a range of different backgrounds, they need not only a greater understanding of culture and cultural values as they relate to AAC, but an increased awareness of the cultural influences affecting their own practices and recommendations. In this article, I describe the process of culturally responsive assessment and intervention and discuss the need for professionals to build opportunities for a truly reciprocal collaborative relationship with families.

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