ABSTRACT
Communication is a fundamental skill that is imperative to a child's development. While many children develop their communication, language, and speech in a seamless manner, research suggests that there is an increasing number of children who display complex communication needs, CCN. Communication is the process of sharing information among two or more people. The main goal of this process is for social interaction and involves four processes: formulation, transmission, reception, and comprehension. The goal should be for all students to become independent communicators. Independent communicators have the ability to share their personal ideas using an array of different modalities that they choose for themselves. Communication skills are often divided into two areas, receptive communication skills and expressive communication skills. In understanding students with CCN and how to best serve these students' needs, teachers can work together to help students become independent communicators, enabling them to lead high quality and productive lives.
