For a 24-month-old child in an early intervention program, what is the best method to determine communication goals?

The best method to determine communication goals for a 24-month-old child in an early intervention program is by setting goals that address communication challenges within daily activities and routines. This approach is effective because it integrates learning and communication into the child's natural environment, promoting functional communication skills that are relevant to their daily life. By focusing on situations where the child is involved in routine interactions, the goals can reflect real-life communication demands and support the child in developing skills that are immediately applicable to their interactions with family members and peers.

This method fosters engagement and motivation because the child is more likely to practice and generalize their communication skills in meaningful contexts. It also recognizes the individual needs of the child, allowing for tailored strategies that can address specific challenges they face in their everyday communications.

In contrast, aligning with developmental norms, while informative, may not adequately consider the unique experiences and needs of an individual child. Waiting to address communication goals until behavioral issues are resolved could delay critical interventions that may otherwise support both behavioral and communication development simultaneously. Additionally, setting goals based on the progress of other children in the program may overlook the specific needs and strengths of the child in question, which can hinder their individual progress.