Augmentative and Alternative Communication in Educational and Social Practice In the "Journal Autism and Developmental Disorders"

The first issue of the scientific and practical journal "Autism and Developmental Disorders" for 2025 has been published (2025 # 1), entirely dedicated to the topic of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). The thematic editor of the issue is Dr Tamara N. Isaeva, Candidate of Pedagogical Sciences and Associate Professor at the Institute of Childhood, Moscow Pedagogical State University (MPGU). Dr Isaeva is recognised as one of the leading Russian experts in the field of special education. She is actively engaged in the development of methodological and educational programmes for training special education teachers, as well as in creating practical tools to support children with severe multiple developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders.

This issue focuses on synthesising the Russian experience in the implementation of AAC in the support of children and adolescents with complex developmental disabilities and ASD. It includes studies on the use of methods such as PECS, Makaton, the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), and the Communication Matrix, alongside a comparative analysis of professional training for special education teachers in Russia and abroad.

Particular emphasis is placed on the development of communicative skills as a central objective of corrective and developmental work, and as a prerequisite for fostering social inclusion. The articles encompass both clinical research and effective practices in the implementation of AAC across educational and social service settings.

The theme of the issue is also explored in a new episode of the PsyJournals LIVE podcast, featuring OlgaPavlova, head of the “My Planet” centre. She discusses the findings of the study “Developing the Skill of Waiting in Adolescents with Developmental Disabilities Using the PECS AAC System.” The study highlights waiting as one of the key components of effective social interaction using AAC strategies.

The issue concludes with announcements of upcoming events, including the All-Russian #PeopleArePeople Festival and the 5th All-Russian Scientific and Practical Conference with international participation, “The Value of Each: Overcoming Exclusion”, to be held in Moscow on 14–15 April 2025. (Podcast release in Russian).