[Source:  Complex Child Magazine]
Young children with significant physical impairments may require the use of specialized devices in order to communicate.  While it is extremely important for all young children to communicate, in some ways it is even more important for children with medical issues to be able to indicate their wants and needs.  For these children, early augmentative communication may help them either to develop speech or to transition to a sophisticated communication device as they get older.
Children who cannot communicate often get very frustrated.  In some cases, they also begin to feel helpless.  Frustration and helplessness may lead to negative behaviors such as acting out, self-injury, or shutting down.  In addition, children who cannot communicate may have trouble socializing, acquiring knowledge, or progressing with development.
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