Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) Framework
A recent article was shared to explain gestalt language processing and following the natural language acquisition framework to support language development.
Authors, Marge Blanc, Amanda Blackwell and Paulina Eilas did a great job of outlining development and describing research by Ann Peters and Barry Prizant.
We first recognize the difference between analytic and gestalt language development. Analytic language development begins with single words.
We measure development for analytic processors by growth in vocabulary (new words), putting words together (more words), and grammatical development.
Gestalt language development starts with larger “chunks” of language. Children first acquire gestalts or phrases.
Gestalt development follows a different path than the one listed above. Language (gestalts or phrases) may start out rigid and require support to become more flexible, unique, and self-generated.
As we recognize the development is different, we should recognize the support for individuals should be different too.
It is also noted, that gestalts can be connected to not only the language spoken, but deeper meanings. Phrases can have strong links to environments or situations that might require background knowledge to understand the intended meaning of a gestalt.
Suggestions for support at each stage were provided as well as language examples.
Stage one: whole gestalts, scripts, songs, etc.
To support, follow the child’s lead, build a trust based connected, acknowledge all communication, decipher deeper meaning, model new gestalts
Stage two: mitigations (mix-and-matching) or partial gestalts
To support, model mitigations, provide new opportunities to mitigate
Stage three: isolated words, two-word combinations
To support, acknowledge single words, model variety of combinations (no grammar needed)
Stage four: original phrases, beginning sentences
To support, model short phrases using beginning grammar.
Stage five: more complex grammar
To support, model more advanced grammar.
Stage six: original sentences with complete grammar
To support, build more advanced grammar in conversations and narratives.
The overall takeaway I got from the article was to build a connection with clients to build trust and better understand their language. Tips were also provided at the end of the article including collaborate with families, recognize links between language and experiences, and to honor preferred modes of communication.
