I feel very honoured to have been given the task of mentoring staff across our school site to work towards their Competent Practitioner award in Intensive Interaction.
Whilst collecting video evidence of interactions, I have been filled with joy at what I have witnessed. Such Great Interactions using the principles of Intensive Interaction. Seeing staff with big eyes and big smiles which gives the unspoken invitation of ‘hello! I want to be with you!’ Open body language saying ‘I am here just for you’. I have seen staff and students sitting on the floor together, in the corridor, in the hydrotherapy pool, on work experience and on school vehicles, having fantastic Intensive Interactions which are always great! Finding the perfect position to be an interesting communication partner, leaning in slightly to give the interaction a little more intimacy: all really good skills whilst tuning into and observing the other person. Even in busy environments I have seen staff and students together, showing obvious enjoyment at just being together, taking turns to communicate by imitating vocalisations and giving responses to all forms of communication. Even a heavy sigh or a subtle cough can be a ‘way in’, pausing to give the feeling of anticipation and allow for turn taking.
My heart has been warmed by the interactions I have seen and heard. A subtle finger to finger touch, a smile to a smile, an acknowledgement of being interesting and interested. Oh how we should celebrate these amazing intensive and Great Interactions!
We are doing just that in our school by holding a celebration of Intensive Interaction every 2nd assembly on a Friday. Staff and students are to be recognised and awarded for their amazing interactions. How proud I feel.
All our Intensive Interactions are great ones!!
Kate Webb
Learning Support Assistant
Intensive Interaction Mentor
MacIntyre School Wingrave