As peers demonstrate the ability to interact comfortably and reciprocally with students using AAC, incorporating strategies that allow them to work and play together independently, the adults can step back from direct involvement into a more indirect role. From a distance, the adult can ensure that all students are benefiting from the interaction and meeting their goals. When this is successful, it builds independence as well as fostering healthy relationships among students.
Fading Support Steps
- Model appropriate interactions for both the student and the peers within the interaction
- Provide coaching
- Step out
- Observe
- Provide additional support as needed
Example of Fading Support in a planned play sequence:
The students are encouraged to initiate play as the Instructional Assistant begins to step back. Additional students are welcomed into the game and the students are now able to negotiate directly with one another and inform each other about the rules.
The play environment and equipment have been engineered to maximize opportunities for social engagement and to minimize the need for adult support. The activity is familiar to the students, has a clear structure that allows for extended play, and is reciprocal and balanced. These elements lead to an effective social interaction and play experience.
The Instructional Assistant provides information and assistance only as needed to ensure that the play experience is successful and enjoyable for all students.
Now additional students feel comfortable joining in. As the interactions become more student-centered, the enjoyment level increases for all involved.
The Instructional Assistant is skillfully employing a ‘wait and see’ approach rather than interrupting the peers’ attempts to communicate and negotiate play.
The Instructional Assistant has stepped out to allow peers to step in and become active partners sharing in the experience. This boosts the students’ confidence knowing that they do not always need adult assistance.
The students are now jointly focused and interacting toward common goals in the activity.
They have achieved a successful and mutually enjoyable play experience, which benefits all and leads to the possibility of more of these experiences in the future.
