Emotional & Behavioural Aspects Impacting Communication in Rett Syndrome

This session looks intensively at the interaction of the neurological motor planning disorder of apraxia/dyspraxia as seen in Rett syndrome (and related syndromes) and the anxiety which is often present in those same individuals. We explore how anxiety and apraxia together can complicate communication. We look at how certain tools, like videos, used initially to decrease anxiety can end up increasing anxiety.

Options to support teaching communication, self-regulation and other skills to allow individuals with Rett syndrome (RTT) to experience more consistent communication, positive affect and have an improved quality of life will be presented.

Learning Outcomes: 1. Participants will be able to identify common manifestations of dyspraxia/apraxia in RTT and adopt communication strategies to help compensate for these behaviours. 2. Participants will learn why it is important to use AAC to help mitigate anxiety in RTT and understand the impact AAC can have on an individual’s quality of life. 3. Participants will learn how to teach a variety of self-soothing and self-talk strategies to help individuals reduce anxiety in Rett syndrome. 4. Participants will encounter a variety of tools to assist in regulating mood and anxiety.

This presentation will be 120 minutes and will be available to watch as a replay until 20th November 2021.