Using Declarative Language with GLPs

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A post shared by Halle Demchuk, MSc(A), SLP (@haepislp)

One of the first strategies I encourage those working with gestalt language processors to use is...

Eliminating questions and using declarative language.

This is harder than it looks! We ask our children tons of questions each day, and with our GLPs who aren't ready for questions until stages 3+, this can result in frustration for both the adult and the child.

We can set our GLPs up for success by naturally modelling declarative language. Try making observations and suggestions while narrating what is happening. This kind of language allows us to share an experience while taking the pressure off the child to respond in a particular way.

We also want to validate the language the child uses. I try to repeat what is said so they know I hear them and what they say really matters to me!

The benefits of using declarative language include:

• Encouraging independence
• Increasing spontaneity
• Deceasing prompt dependency
• Modelling natural language for GLPs
• Reducing performance-based stress
• Allowing space for connection

I encourage you to try asking *NO QUESTIONS* the next time you play with a GLP. I still catch myself doing it! 

by Halle Demchuk, SLP

Paediatric SLP | GLP-Trained Clinician | Owner of HAEPI SLP