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Abstract

A multiple baseline design was used to investigate the effects of a neurobehavioral motor intervention on intentional communication development of 4 young children with neuromotor impairments. This intervention is based on the premise that early motor skills acquisition may facilitate development of skills across other domains. Related communication skills linked to motor targets were observed during scripted probe sessions designed to provide opportunities for the child to produce targeted motor skills and related communication skills. All subjects increased the use of communication behaviors following implementation of the motor skills intervention. Increases were maintained during follow-up probes. Results indicated modest but stable effects of the motor skills training on the use of related intentional communication skills linked to the targeted motor skills.

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The Effects of Motor Skill Acquisition on the Development of Intentional Communication

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