Children with the rare genetic disorder know as Mowat-WIlson syndrome display distinctive facial features (including narrow chin, cupped ears, wide-set eyes, open mouth) and other physical abnormalities, along with delayed development and mental disability. Treatment is generally supportive in nature, and speech and physical therapy are essential components of a treatment plan. Early intervention is also important.
Because this disorder is so rare, few SLPs have first hand experience with it. One is Barbara Hallahan, an SLP in Ireland and a TapToTalk Service Provider, who shared this with us:
"I am working with a 6 year old with Mowat-Wilson syndrome. He is using the Nintendo version of TapToTalk appropriately. He has been able to communicate novel statements. He is even trying to repeat the phrases we have programmed into it. He was not doing as well with other alternative communication methods. I am delighted we have found something he enjoys that is not hard to programme."
Barbara also developed a TapToTalk album specially designed to help this child improve his ability to tap. This idea can be used to help any child with fine motor skills issues. See Helping a Child with Tapping Problems use AAC.
Children with Mowat-Wilson syndrome have the same need (and right) to communicate as do all other kids. TapToTalk can be an effective AAC solution for them.
If you have a TapToTalk idea or story you'd like us to share with other TapToTalk users, please email us at blog@taptotalk.com.
The TapToTalk Team
www.taptotalk.com
blog@taptotalk.com
