As special education professionals, we continuously seek innovative and effective strategies to support our students' communication needs. A compelling case study, "Signed English as a Transitional Step in the Treatment of a Child with Reye's Syndrome," sheds light on the potential of Signed English (SE) as a tool in speech-language therapy. This blog post aims to explore the study's insights and encourage further research and application of SE in therapy.
The case involves a child, R.V., who experienced a cessation of productive verbal language following hospitalization for Reye's Syndrome, a rare but severe condition that can lead to acute encephalopathy and fatty liver degeneration. R.V.'s journey through recovery, particularly his speech-language rehabilitation, offers valuable lessons for practitioners.
Implementing Signed English: The study details how R.V., initially struggling with severe dysfluency and phonatory and articulatory difficulties, was introduced to SE as a means to facilitate communication. This approach was not intended to replace oral speech but to serve as a transitional tool to alleviate frustration and encourage verbal attempts. SE training, coupled with breathing, phonatory, and articulatory exercises, allowed R.V. to use sign language as a prompt for oral speech, significantly reducing his communication-related frustrations.
Challenges and Adaptations: The case study also highlights the challenges encountered, such as R.V.'s fine motor difficulties, which necessitated modifications to certain signs. Despite these challenges, SE enabled R.V. to maintain and even expand his communication abilities, especially when traditional speech-language therapy methods were proving less effective.
Community and Peer Involvement: An essential aspect of R.V.'s progress was the involvement of his classroom community. By integrating SE training for classmates and teachers, R.V. was better accepted and could more actively participate in social and educational activities. This peer support system not only benefited R.V. but also fostered a more inclusive and understanding classroom environment.
Implications for Practice: This case study underscores the importance of flexibility and creativity in speech-language therapy. SE can offer an alternative pathway for children who face significant challenges with verbal communication, providing them with a means to express themselves and engage with their peers and educators. Moreover, the study highlights the potential benefits of incorporating sign language into early education settings, promoting inclusivity and awareness of diverse communication needs.
For practitioners looking to expand their therapeutic toolbox, incorporating Signed English could be a transformative step. It encourages a holistic approach to communication, acknowledging the need for alternative methods that cater to individual student needs. This case study serves as a reminder of our role in continually adapting and exploring new strategies to support our students' growth and well-being.
To further explore the benefits and applications of Signed English in speech-language therapy, and to delve into the detailed journey of R.V., Signed English as a Transitional Step in the Treatment of a Child with Reye's Syndrome is an invaluable resource.
