The Castle Valley Center has been using Lamp for the past 5 years. We have recently received a grant from the Eastern Utah Community Credit Union to purchase (5) I-Pads to use in our speech and language department. Our speech and language professionals report success in communication development using the lamp system.
What is LAMP?
Language Acquisition through Motor Planning (LAMP) is a therapeutic approach based on neurological and motor learning principles. The goal is to give individuals who are nonverbal or have limited verbal abilities a method of independently and spontaneously expressing themselves in any setting.
LAMP was developed out of the clinical practices of John Halloran, MS, CCC-SLP, Cindy Halloran, OTR/L, and Mia Emerson, MS, CCC-SLP. In their interactions with nonverbal individuals with autism, they found that:
Giving individuals access to core words on a speech-generating device,
Teaching those words in sensory-rich activities, and
Accessing each word on the device with a consistent, unique motor pattern with auditory feedback provided a means for developing independent communication.
What Makes LAMP Effective?
Language and social interaction may be affected by impairments in motor skills and auditory and sensory processing. Some interventions currently in use with individuals with autism focus on the perceived strengths associated with autism, such as visual learning and the desire for structure.
The LAMP approach not only utilizes visual learning and the desire for structure, but it also addresses core deficits affecting language delay to improve spontaneous, generative communication.
LAMP strives to improve language and communication by:
Imitating the neurological processes associated with typical speech development
Pairing a consistent motor movement with consistent auditory feedback and a natural response while using a speech generating device.
There are no cognitive prerequisites for the implementation of LAMP as intervention can begin at the cause and effect level and systematically build upon the stages of natural language development.
Transition Kindergarten
Another successful program at the Castle Valley Center is our transition kindergarten. This year we have two classrooms for our kindergarten. Students attending the kindergarten receive intensive instruction in skill development using the standard kindergarten curriculum. Our students are here for a year of kindergarten and in most cases move on to the elementary school near their home. After a year with us our students have developed the skills necessary to succeed in a regular school environment or a setting within an elementary with supports. This allows the student to move through the school system and graduate when the time comes.
Castle Valley Center received a grant for success in communication development
Castle Valley Center