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46 %u00a9 Elklan Training Limited 2025Elklan Supporting Gestalt Language Processing %u2013 a Total Communication ApproachSign systems like Makaton and Signalong can be helpful to support children and young people with many different speech and language communication needs as the signs map onto key words and can draw attention to the key words, and show their meaning, which can then help with verbal comprehension and verbal expression. When using a key word signing system with a Gestalt Language Processor at Stage 1 or Stage 2 GLP, it is useful to bear in mind that the child or young person is not directly mapping meaning onto single words.Considerations for using key word signing systems for the Gestalt Language Processor:%u2022 Continue with the option of signing where key word signing is used as part of a Total Communication Approach%u2022 Use one key word sign mapped onto the meaning of a gestalt. For example, child DB uses the gestalt %u2018You need to wear your hat%u2019 meaning %u2018cold%u2019 then use the key word sign for %u2018cold%u2019 mapped onto the gestalt%u2022 Singing with signs may be positive for those who enjoy music, singing and rhymes5.13 POWER-BASED COMMUNICATION AIDSPower-based communication aids are electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets or laptops, that use specialist software usually with a voice output function to support communication. There is a wide range of communication apps available and commonly they offer a set of functions and a core vocabulary with additional features to upload photos and symbols to personalise the communication device. Individual client studies, including those clients with more complex needs, show the benefits of using power-based electronic aids. Desai et al (2014) in their study found %u2018Marked increases in the student%u2019s communication skills and non-academic school functioning were observed. The need for communication partner prompting declined over time while the student, teacher and parent remained engaged by the iPad%u2019.The assessment for readiness of using a power-based aid can sometimes be measured from observation and evidence of success in achieving functional communication and social communication when using paper-based AAC e.g. visual schedules, choice boards or a communication book. A child or young person may benefit from a power-based communication aid and yet not have widely used paper-based communication aids. Tablets with communication apps are popular with non-speakers or children and young people with some speaking. The Gestalt Language Processing child or young person may not have used paper-based communication aids where one word maps onto one picture symbol, and they may prefer a voice output communication device. In other words, the choice and timing of introducing AAC support depends on individual needs and requires the close collaboration between family, child or young person and supporting adults.