VIDBE-Q Volume 65 Issue 2
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symbolic, nonconventional communication; (4) pre-symbolic, conventional
communication; (5) concrete tangible symbols; (6) use of single, abstract symbols;
and (7) combinations of 2-3 abstract symbols (see Table 2; Pittroff, 2011; Rowland
& Schweigert, 2000).
Table 2
Levels of Communication
Level Type of Communication
Age (Months) Stage
Occurs
I Pre-Intentional Behavior 0 to 3
II Intentional Behavior 3 to 8
III
Unconventional
Communication
6 to 12
IV Conventional Communication 12 to 18
V Concrete Symbols 12 to 24
VI Abstract Symbols 12 to 24
VII Language 24
Note: This table reflects the communication stages and a timeframe
between which they should develop in typically developing children.
This is where the use of the CM can be helpful as it inherently divides
individual communication skills into these classifications and ranking order.
Professionals can use the CM to create a bi-annual or, at minimum, annual profile
to provide guidance as they seek to determine their student's educational plans or
interventions and supports needed. The CM profiles could also provide these teams
with a way to track the communication development as exemplified in this
examination.
