• Season 1

Executive Function For Gestalt Language Processors: The NLA Framework

Executive Function For Gestalt Language Processors, AAC Users, and Autistic Children

Summary

In this episode, Amy Zembriski discusses the intersection of executive function and the Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) framework, emphasizing the importance of child-led therapy and the meaningfulness of echolalia. She explores how understanding executive function can enhance language development for gestalt language processors and autistic children. The conversation highlights the need for explicit supports, self-awareness in communication, and individualized strategies to foster effective communication and learning.

Takeaways

  • Child-led therapy and echolalia are both meaningful
  • Explicit supports to help gestalt language processors make progress does not equate to compliance-based methods
  • Self-awareness is crucial for both children and communication partners.

Resources & References:

Social Media
Instagram: @amyz.theslp

TikTok: @amyz.theslp

Contact information

info@speechtherapyconnectionsllc.com


Blog
https://amyztheslp.com/blog/

References
Blanc, M., Blackwell, A., & Elias, P. (2023). Using the Natural Language Acquisition Protocol to support gestalt language development. Perspectives of the ASHA Special Interest Groups.

de Jong, T. (2010). Cognitive load theory, educational research, and instructional design: Some food for thought. Instructional Science, 38(2), 105–134.


Siller, M., Hutman, T., & Sigman, M. (2013). A parent-mediated intervention to increase responsive parental behaviors and child communication in children with ASD: A randomized clinical trial. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 43(3), 540–555.

Torske, T., Nærland, T., Øie, M. G., Stenberg, N., & Andreassen, O. A. (2018). Metacognitive aspects of executive function are highly associated with social functioning on parent-rated measures in children with autism spectrum disorder. Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, 11, 258.

Venker, C. E., McDuffie, A. S., Ellis Weismer, S., & Abbeduto, L. (2012). Increasing verbal responsiveness in parents of children with autism: A pilot study. Autism, 16(6), 568–585.

Xie, F., Pascual, E., & Oakley, T. (2023). Functional echolalia in autism speech: Verbal formulae and repeated prior utterances as communicative and cognitive strategies. Frontiers in Psychology, 14, 1010615.

Information