What is an important strategy for fostering communication in students with mild exceptional needs?

Using strategies tailored to individuals' communication goals is crucial for fostering communication in students with mild exceptional needs because each student has unique abilities, preferences, and challenges. By personalizing communication strategies, educators can effectively address the specific needs of each student. This individualized approach encourages better engagement and more meaningful interactions, enabling students to express themselves in a way that suits their capabilities.

For instance, a student who struggles with verbal communication might benefit from using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, while another might thrive with more traditional speech therapies. By aligning the strategies with the individual’s communication goals, educators can maximize the effectiveness of interventions and support students in developing their communication skills, leading to greater independence and social connection.

Other options do not effectively promote communication. Limiting interactions does not give students the opportunity to practice and develop their skills. Relying solely on peer interactions may overlook specific needs and does not provide the necessary scaffolding from trained educators. Focusing only on verbal communication disregards the various modalities through which communication can occur, such as non-verbal cues or assistive technology, which are especially important for students with exceptional needs.