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34 %u00a9 Elklan Training Limited 2025Elklan Supporting Gestalt Language Processing %u2013 a Total Communication Approach5.2 ACCESS TO SPACEFind out about the child or young person%u2019s interests/preferred activities and sensory needs. They may enjoy an activity, such as repeatedly placing items in a bowl, tipping them onto the floor and then scooping them up. They may have an interest in a specific topic such as dinosaurs, or a TV/film or book character or singing particular songs. Whatever their preference, allow opportunities for them to engage in their chosen activity or play.A suitable location should be found that allows space so the child or young person can move freely around, can use their physical gestalts and enables the adult to follow their lead. Using a soft play area, a gym, a hall, or a sensory room might be suitable depending on the individual%u2019s need.5.3 FOLLOWING THE CHILD OR YOUNG PERSON%u2019S LEADOnce a suitable environment that will encourage a child or young person%u2019s communication has been selected, then provide the resources required for them to engage in their interests.The golden rule for positive support is to follow their lead so:%u2022 Join in with their preferred activity%u2022 Follow their play%u2022 Respond to physical communication%u2022 Encourage echolalia and affirm gestalts (see page 35)%u2022 Remember the importance of reciprocity and Double Empathy (see page 9).Benefits of following their leadWhen the adult follows the child or young person%u2019s lead there is no pressure on them to engage or respond or to interact so there is a reduction in demand. The child or young person chooses their activity and by following their lead this:%u2022 Provides engagement in a shared activity%u2022 Allows an opportunity for taking turns in an exchange of positive interaction%u2022 Shows them others are interested in their preferred play%u2022 Develops relationship building%u2022 Supports positive interaction%u2022 May help build social confidence.