Parent-implemented Hanen program More than words in Angelman syndrome: A case study

Abstract

Children with Angelman syndrome (AS) exhibit significant social, communicative and cognitive difficulties. The aim of this case study was to describe the profile of communicative abilities of a child with AS, before and after the implementation of the Hanen program 'More than words' (MTW). Additionally, changes on the language directed at her in spontaneous interactions were analysed. Advances were observed regarding the quantity and quality of communicative acts displayed by the child, both in natural interactions and through the use of standardized instruments. Moreover, a different rate of development was noted, when comparing two time periods (with and without MTW intervention). Linguistic input provided by the mother also exhibited some variations after treatment. Our findings suggest that MTW could be a promising approach to use with the communicative challenges experienced by AS children. Further research is needed to add more evidence about the suitability of the MTW program for AS individuals.

Unmet clinical needs and burden in Angelman syndrome: a review of the literature

“…Most individuals with AS do not ever develop oral speech or more than a few vocalizations, even with therapy [ 34 ]. For the few that do develop some oral speech, it primarily consists of fewer than 2 words or word approximations [ 34 , 35 ].…”

“…Most individuals with AS do not ever develop oral speech or more than a few vocalizations, even with therapy [ 34 ]. For the few that do develop some oral speech, it primarily consists of fewer than 2 words or word approximations [ 34 , 35 ]. In adulthood, there does not appear to be a significant increase in word use or vocalizations, with reports of an average of 5 words for adults [ 36 ].…”

“…However, the vast majority of communication interventions for children with AS have focused on augmentative and alternative communication systems [ 44 ]. Use of picture symbols, objects, iPads, and other electronic devices have been used to promote communication in this population [ 34 , 44 ]. Parents have also been taught ways of building on natural motor movements of individuals with AS to promote and enhance natural gestures for communication [ 46 – 48 ].…”

Examining perceptions of a communication course for parents of children with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities

“…Children with specified PIMD have been found to be capable of learning to communicate choices and requests, reject unwanted objects/activities and attract the attention of others with the support of AAC (Wilder 2014 , Roche et al 2015 , Roche 2017 ). Parents of children with severe disabilities who communicate pre-verbally have been found to adapt their communication with their children after having received parent-implemented communication intervention (de Carlos Isla and Baixauli Fortea 2016 , Calculator 2016 , Chen et al 2007 ). The research of Chen et al ( 2007 ) could be of particular interest in this case, since the children in their study had PIMD.…”

The impact of tuberous sclerosis complex – a parent’s perspective

“…His speech was delayed for his first few years and he benefitted from speech therapy. We found the Hanen programme especially useful for his speech development (see de Carlos Isla and Baixauli Fortea, 2015). It involved training us as parents to intentionally play with him to encourage his speech.…”