The anatomy of an S2C session
An S2C session might look a little different than other typical therapies. At the heart of an S2C session is a concept called
PRESUMING COMPETENCE. This means that the therapist/practitioner will be acting on the belief that each individual not only is capable of learning but wants to learn- no matter what their body is doing. We know that are spellers are capable with or without tangible or perceivable evidence.
Spellers often have Apraxia/Dyspraxia which is a neurological difference that results in poor motor planning/execution of purposeful movement. This means that even if a Speller is intending to sit in a chair, look at the speaker and execute perfected spelling pokes, their body may be moving, trying to standing, looking at things other than the board or just generally not displaying “typical” body language signaling attention. However, we know that listening doesn’t actually have a look and our spellers have told us to not trust their body as it often misrepresents their internal experiences. And so, we presume competence, coach the body and motor to complete lessons.
We use LESSONS & LETTERBOARDS. Lessons are written about specific topics to provide structure and substance for intentional communication practice. Using a specific hierarchy of questions, spellers move up in complexity and length of questions as skills are acquired. Each speller has their own unique profile, and based on this, a practitioner will recommend what boards to use. Letterboard begin with only 8-9 letters per board and advance to 26 letters, numbers, punctuation and more!
SENSORY SUPPORTS are another thing you are sure to find in a S2C session! We work on regulation throughout our spelling to help Spellers develop strategies to support their body in accomplishing what they are trying to do. This can include turning up/down lights, noise-cancelling headphones, fidgets, body engagement tasks, pressure/weighted vests, tactile inputs and much more!
Finally, the CRP or COMMUNICATION & REGULATION PARTNER facilitates spelling with the speller by holding boards, providing support and prompting as needed. CRPs include practitioners, parents, friends and others who are coached in how to facilitate communication for their loved ones.
