Talking Mats is a low tech communication framework involving sets of symbols. It was originally developed by The AAC (Alternative and Augmetative Communication) Research Unit to support people with communication impairment. Since its original conception, additional research has taken place and now it is an established communication tool, which uses a mat with pictures symbols attached as the basis for communication. It is designed to help people with communication difficulties to think about issues discussed with them, and provide them with a way to effectively express their opinions.

Talking Mats can help people arrive at a decision by providing a structure where information is presented in small chunks supported by symbols. It gives people time and space to think about information, work out what it means and say what they feel in a visual way that can be easily recorded.

Talking Mats is actively being used across many diverse specialist areas and encompasses people with and without communication difficulties. Individuals using Talking Mats find it enjoyable and easy to use, as it provides them with a simple but effective, non-threatening way of expressing themselves.

Video of Talking Mats being used can be seen here on the ASL Stirling website. Click on 'Consulting children and young people' video clip.

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Last updated 6 August 2008

Click here to go to the AAC web site