Word finding, word retrieval, expressive language difficulties. Whatever you call it, it’s time to WARM UP our ideas about word finding therapy. Brrr! The wind chill is 30 below in the Midwest, schools are cancelled, and my furnace is running nonstop. Good day to stay inside and blog!
When we talk about word finding difficulties, we think of the kids who say, “Um, uh, uh” or “I know what it is, but I can’t think of it.” But what are some of the nonverbal behaviors we see in our students with retrieval problems?
Facial expressions and body language can offer clues about what a child is experiencing. Watch for snapping/tapping fingers, pounding a fist on his thigh, looking up at the ceiling, or squeezing his eyes shut. One of my students used to always bite her lip when she was stuck on a word. Sometimes kids will act out an action or activity, like gesturing to shoot an arrow or pound a hammer. So don’t always focus on what you are hearing. Also pay attention to what you are seeing.