Using PLAI to Promote Communication in Infants and Children with Multiple Disabilities

Using PLAI to Promote Communication in Infants and Children with Multiple Disabilities

Speaker(s): M. Diane Klein, CCC-SLP, Ph.D; Deborah Chen, Ph.D.

Logistics

Required book(s) or materials: PLAI (Promoting Learning Through Active Interaction): A Guide to Early Communication with Young Children Who Have Multiple Disabilities

Seminar length: 1–2 days

Number of participants: 15–30

Who will benefit from this seminar: Early interventionists, early childhood special educators, speech–language pathologists, occupational and physical therapists, social workers, and psychologists working with families with infants and young children

Speaker Fees: (What do fees include?)
1 day: $2300
2 days: $4400
3 days: $6600

Have another idea? Tell us about it, and we’ll do our best to customize this seminar to your needs!

Seminar Description

Drs. Klein and Chen present five modules participants can use to increase caregivers’ awareness of their infants’ and young children’s early communicative behavior. In a two-day presentation, the speakers illustrate key strategies, show a case study on video, and apply PLAI to the participants’ own work. They also offer guidance as participants practice observing and identifying infant behaviors and caregiver cues using role-plays and video samples.

Following this seminar, participants will be able to

develop a clear understanding of a child’s existing repertoire of cues and behaviors
establish routines and turn-taking
understand a child’s likes, dislikes, and current means of communication
work with a child and caregiver to increase the number, frequency, and clarity of the child’s communicative behaviors
encourage children to initiate interaction
strengthen the interactive relationship between the caregiver and the child

Bonus: The guidebook includes photocopiable recording sheets—in English and Spanish!—for professionals and caregivers to use in monitoring children’s progress.