Language development is a crucial missing element in children with autism. By definition, language development is either absent or significantly impaired. In most cases, our students have started developing language but by age 3-4 that language has disappeared fully or partially. Language therapy plays an important role in the program at PHCS. All of our students receive language therapy 5 days a week in order to maximize the potential for developing effective communication skills.
The therapy model that we have found to deliver the best results is multi-faceted. PHCS has 3 full time Speech/Language Pathologists and 1 Speech Language Pathologist Assistant. The therapist works in the classroom and collaborates with all staff working with each student. This model accommodates a variety of learning situations including - one-on-one therapy, small group therapy, group social skills, and alternative augmentative communication systems. All of the therapists are trained to use a variety of assistive technology to facilitate communication development. An array of education and communication applications including Proloquo2go and Touch Chat are also used.