Children with disabilities often have a range of communication styles, from gestures, eye contact, assistive devices and augmentative-alternative communication (AAC). At Lapapoe, we understand that your child may be stronger in expressive than they are in receptive skills. We put value on children expressing their needs, feelings and ideas in their own individual ways. Various methods such as picture exchange, badges, AAC, or visual supports, can support a child’s ability to engage and connect. (PubMed 2009)Children with disabilities often have a range of communication styles, from gestures, eye contact, assistive devices and augmentative-alternative communication (AAC). At Lapapoe, we understand that your child may be stronger in expressive than they are in receptive skills. We put value on children expressing their needs, feelings and ideas in their own individual ways. Various methods such as picture exchange, badges, AAC, or visual supports, can support a child’s ability to engage and connect. (PubMed 2009)
Behavior is a form of communication and often reflects underlying needs, sensory experiences or social expectations. At Lapapoe, we promote positive behavior support strategies that emphasize proactive, inclusive environments and help children learn. Positive behavior management has been shown to improve outcomes for children with disabilities when there is a collaboration between families and providers. This includes identifying triggers, teaching replacement behaviors, and partnering with caregivers. (Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports.)
Many children with disabilities may experience incontinence. It requires sensitivity, and collaboration to support the child. At Lapapoe we understand that every family is different and every child’s toileting needs are different. We aim for independence and dignity by respecting the child’s routines and plans as assigned by the family. Whether that is self-initiation, regular scheduled time sitting or another strategy. We will adhere to every strategy the family uses for their individual child.
Children with disabilities may experience sensory processing differences—such as heightened or under-responsive awareness of sound, touch or movement—which can influence their behavior, comfort and engagement. At Lapapoe we understand differences exist within sensory patterns. Every environment is different, we aim to maintain and respect every environment and the sensory needs of the children within that space. By making an attempt to understand each child’s unique sensory profile we believe children will thrive in a way that is most comfortable to them.
Meaningful friendships, peer engagement and social belonging matter for every child. Through Lapapoe, we believe in nurturing social interaction. Activities such as structured peer play, social stories, role-playing and supported group experiences supports the child’s strengths and interests. Research points to the importance of modeling, scaffolded social experiences, and bridging home, school and community contexts to foster connection and relational growth. (PubMed Central)
Mobility is not just a physical skill—it is a gateway to independence, exploration, and social inclusion. Children can benefit from adaptive equipment, environmental modification, and movement opportunities. This includes fine and gross motor skills. Research shows that early, frequent mobility experience for children with can improve physical development, independence and participation in school and community life (Rifton Education 2023) We advocate for movement-rich everyday opportunities through play and exploration.
