Someone meeting your child for the first time may not know what a gesture means, how their device is used, or how they express refusal. A practical handoff explains these details without reducing the person to a diagnosis.
Describe the person’s communication
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) can include gestures, pictures, writing, or speech-generating tools, and a person may combine several methods. A speech-language professional can help assess and support individual needs. Read the Communication Health Support Association’s AAC explanation.
The school, responder, and hospital tools offer places to record communication information. Use language the next caregiver can understand, and include the person’s established preferences.
Five questions for a useful handoff
- How does this person express a choice, agreement, refusal, or discomfort?
- Where are their usual communication tools, and who can explain how they use them?
- What does someone unfamiliar with them need to notice?
- What should a communication partner do when the meaning is unclear?
- Who should be contacted if a tool is unavailable or additional support is needed?
Use a concrete example
“Uses pictures” is a starting point. A fuller note might say: “Lee carries a picture book in the side pocket of their bag. They point to a picture to make a choice. Please ask their caregiver to show you how they use it.” This is an example, not a recommended system for every person.
Carry understanding between settings
Ask the family, school, and care team to agree on current information and where it will be kept. Date the note, update it when something changes, and protect private information when sharing it.
A sample sheet is an organizational aid, not an AAC assessment or a substitute for the person’s established communication system. The autism glossary can help explain unfamiliar terms.