Let’s start with a few of the reasons why Narratives have a place in your toolbox: a) Narratives provide information about sequencing–sequencing of events, thoughts, sentences, words; b) Narrative allow the individual to tell a story–something about them–something we cannot see during a formal assessment; c) Narratives complement other assessments; d)Narrative acknowledge a listener, someone who hears the story and then will respond; e)Narratives can show growth in language; and f) Narratives can give us insight into how the individual uses aids to communicate. Narratives can be written or spoken. Maybe a combination of both.

One of my favorite spots on the net for “Narratives” are Ted Talks. Listen to this story about accessibility. https://www.ted.com/talks/kings_floyd_the_cost_of_failing_to_design_accessibly

Think about the structure and movement of the story. How can you structure building narratives for your clients/students–sometimes they need a word, a thought, a place etc. As always, give the client/student TIME to think and then begin building a visual map of connected words and thoughts. A narrative develops.

Enjoy the Journey

PMD