Practical, Evidence-Based Communication Support in Low-Resource Settings

DESCRIPTION

This webinar brings together four experienced communication researchers and speech pathologists to share simple, practical, and evidence-based strategies to support communication for infants, children, and young people in low- and very-low-resource settings. The session will introduce basic screening concepts and high-impact intervention approaches using real-world examples and case studies. Emphasis will be placed on what is achievable — even in contexts with no speech pathologists, limited funding, and minimal access to equipment, toys, books, or technology. Participants will gain realistic, culturally responsive, and immediately applicable strategies to strengthen communication support for children and families.

WHO SHOULD JOIN

Health and rehabilitation professionals, community-based service providers, early intervention teams, program implementers, researchers, caregivers, and others working with children and families in LMICs or low-resource settings who are seeking practical and sustainable communication support strategies.

OBJECTIVES

• To introduce feasible, evidence-based approaches for supporting communication in low-resource contexts

• To strengthen understanding of early communication screening and high-impact intervention principles

• To demonstrate how everyday routines, play, and locally available materials can be used to promote communication

• To explore real-world challenges and context-appropriate solutions through expert discussion

  
  

CONTENTS

• Supporting infant and toddler communication through everyday routines and play

• Key principles for motor speech based on current evidence

• Introducing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) using low-cost and locally available materials

• Practical examples and case studies from low- and very-low-resource settings

  
  

Facilitators

• Dr Amanda Khamis, Research Fellow – Cerebral Palsy Alliance, Australia

• Annemarie Murphy, Research Fellow – Cerebral Palsy Alliance, Australia

• Naomi Hodder, Research Therapist– Cerebral Palsy Alliance, Australia