Here are some ideas:
Requesting More of an Action:
Ask the parents about routines and activities that are very motivating for the child and that require your assistance, for example: bubbles, balloons, taking a bath, taking a walk, reading books, singing a song, playing an instrument or musical recording for the child, action toys (such as a wind-up animal), electronic games or electronic musical devices that the child needs assistance to activate.
Knowing the activities that are of greatest interest to the child is important. If it's not obvious what the child enjoys, try setting up %u201Cpreference tests%u201D to find out what activities are most motivating. For example, give the child a brief taste of one activity after another, observing their reactions to each. These reactions will help you figure out what the child most likes and might want to request more of.
Requesting a New Action
Make sure the child has experience with many different pleasurable activities that require your help or that need two people to play. For instance, song-and-movement games, chasing games, tickling, peek-a-boo, swinging, ball play, rolling cars down a paper tube, listening to music, playing electronic games, walking the dog, feeding the cat, making a sandwich. Before beginning a new game, offer the opportunity to request one by pausing expectantly or asking %u201CWhat shall we do?%u201D, allowing plenty of time for the child to respond, and making sure they have a gesture or vocalization to show you what they want.
Communication Matrix Team - 11/18/2020
