Populations With Special Needs

CDA's require the knowledge to provide communication intervention to clients with special needs. Students examine current trends and issues related to individuals with disabilities, including an overview of a variety of disabilities, their characteristics and management. Topics include underlying pediatric conditions that affect communication and the particular communication and associated challenges of children and adults with developmental disabilities, Down Syndrome, cleft lip and palate, cerebral palsy, multiple disabilities, hearing impairment, Autism Spectrum Disorders, learning disabilities,attention deficit disorders, environmental deprivation, etc. Students are exposed to a sampling of screening and assessment tools and reports, intervention activities and strategies reflective of various treatment approaches for clients with special needs. The role of the Communicative Disorders Assistant in implementing program recommendations for clients with special needs is emphasized.