Use methods of communication with peers, such as e-mail or typing notes/letters.

E-mail, Twitter, Google Buzz, Facebook, etc., are tools that enable us to stay connected. Someone who has verbal or fine-motor challenges can use these tools on the Internet to communicate at his own pace, affording the freedom to communicate when and with whom he chooses.

Choose a service (i.e., Twitter, Google Buzz, Facebook, e-mail) you feel comfortable with so that you can easily monitor communications. Encourage your student to post notes of interest, for example a YouTube link highlighting a favorite team and a short sentence afterward to express team spirit. Start conversations by responding to other people’s posts.

It may take time to become familiar with this activity. Set a goal of posting two to three times in a week, and modify according to your student’s needs. Be cautious about revealing personal information.

May include increase in communication, personal expression, confidence and interest in technology.