Here is an idea to build communication in your child or students. Make Items Inaccessible- Place items in a spot where the child can see the items, but cannot obtain the item, without the assistance from the adult. This can be done in a number of ways. First, highly motivating items can be placed behind the adult, but in clear view. Since the child cannot go through the adult, he or she must communicate with the adult to receive the item. Second, items can be placed inside a cabinent, container or a closet and picture icons or photographs can be placed on the outside of the closet or cabinet door. Once again, providing the need for adult assistance to obtain the item. Third, the adult assistance can be made inaccessible. This can be accomplished when it is recognized that the child is having difficulty opening, activating, or obtaining an item. Instead of providing immediate attention to the child's needs, give 5-10 seconds of wait time to see if the child will attempt to initiate the request for help or for the item. Communicaiton can be in the form of words, signs, picture icons, photos, labels, logos or real actual object exchanges.