Date: 21/10/2022
It is important to determine which type of visual support is meaningful and easily understood by the child/young person.
This can be assessed by asking them to match an item at the various levels of symbol representation. For example, object to the T.O.B.I (True Object Based Icon), then T.O.B.I. to photograph, photograph to symbol and finally symbol to word.
Use everyday items that the child/ young person is likely to be familiar with. For example, we have found that some children group together all cutlery and do not recognise a fork and spoon as being separate items.
You will see that this assessment does not require speech. Some children/ young people process better with less language load. You might model matching first, demonstrating how to match and put in the finished box when complete, before the child/young person. To view the video please click here
The visual supports are not a teaching tool. They should be understood by the child/young person at all times, even on difficult days.
For more information on symbolic development and different forms of visual supports, please follow this link