Parent-Implemented AAC Narrative Intervention

Abstract

The current study investigated the implementation of a parent-implemented narrative intervention for individuals who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), Storytalker. A nonconcurrent multiple baseline across participants design was conducted with three parent-child dyads. Parent implementation fidelity of the Storytalker intervention was assessed along with parent language outcomes. Child narrative macrostructure and microstructure was assessed from narratives generated from picture books. The acceptability and generalization of the intervention was assessed through parent surveys, interviews, and book sharing probe measures. Parents demonstrated gains in their use of language facilitation strategies after training was provided and implemented the intervention with high levels of fidelity. Mixed effects were observed for parent language measures. Child participants also demonstrated mixed effects in both narrative macrostructure and microstructure measures. Parents rated the intervention with high levels of acceptability. They also qualitatively reported changes in their child’s daily communication after the intervention.