Talking Bodies: Part 2 Step 1: Exaggerate your gestures

Rationale:

Adding and exaggerating your body language in your verbal communication with your child provides a visual support that stands out and can increase the meaning of the communication. Showing enthusiasm by exaggerating your facial expressions and your gestures (e.g., pointing, showing, clapping, pushing away) draws attention to the body language as part of the communication and can be easily incorporated into daily routines, play with objects, and sensory social routines.

Drawing of a bookRead more:

          Helping your child tune in

Ipad screenView this video:

Baby gestures/toddler gestures

Help your child interpret body language and have fun doing it!

 

I know I have helped my child understand my body language when:

  • She responds to my cues and gestures
  • She reads my gestures and cues in a variety of situations and routines
  • She shows joint attention during sensory social games and routines

Back to Module 4                                         Step 2: Add predictable steps

The content of these pages are adapted from: An early start for your child with Autism: Using everyday activities to help kids connect, communicate and learn. Rogers, S.J., Dawson, G., Vismara, L.A. (2012). New York: Guilford Press.