Shared Attention: Building Communication Skills
Chad Sherman · on 24 July 2026 · 5 min read · Last reviewed 24 July 2026
Shared attention is the mutual focus between two people on an object or activity, often facilitated by verbal or non-verbal cues like pointing or eye-gazing.
- Shared attention is crucial for early language development and social interaction.
- It involves both verbal (e.g., saying "Look!") and non-verbal cues (e.g., pointing, eye contact).
- Shared attention can be challenging for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other communication difficulties.
- Assistive speech software and communication boards can help facilitate shared attention in educational and therapeutic settings.
How does shared attention develop in typically developing children?
Shared attention typically begins to emerge around 9-12 months of age, starting with simple eye contact and progressing to pointing and other gestures by 12-18 months.
According to research, babies initially follow the gaze of others to objects, which is called "gaze following." By their first birthday, they start to initiate joint attention by pointing or looking back and forth between an object and a caregiver.
This skill is a predictor of later language development, as it demonstrates a child's ability to understand that others have different perspectives and intentions.
What role does shared attention play in education?
Shared attention in education fosters collaborative learning and engagement. Teachers use shared attention to guide students' focus to specific lessons or activities, enhancing comprehension and participation.
For instance, a teacher might use a visual schedule to help students follow the day's activities, or they might point to a specific part of a textbook to direct attention during a lesson. This practice is particularly effective in inclusive classrooms, where students have diverse learning needs and abilities.
In my experience, shared attention activities like turn-taking games or group projects can significantly improve students' social skills and academic performance.
How can shared attention be facilitated in virtual settings?
Virtual shared attention requires intentional strategies to replicate the focus and engagement of in-person interactions. Video conferencing tools, shared screens, and interactive whiteboards can help facilitate joint attention in remote learning or therapy sessions.
For example, platforms like Zoom or Google Meet allow participants to share their screens, enabling educators or therapists to guide attention to specific content. Interactive whiteboards, such as those offered by Jamboard, permit multiple users to draw, write, or manipulate objects in real-time, fostering collaboration and shared focus.
Additionally, virtual communication boards and AAC apps can be integrated into video conferencing tools to support shared attention for individuals with communication difficulties.
How can assistive speech software help facilitate shared attention?
Assistive speech software, such as AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) apps, can support shared attention by providing visual aids and interactive elements that guide the user's focus.
An AAC app such as Proloquo2Go offers customizable grids and symbols that users can tap to communicate. Caregivers and therapists can use these grids to direct the user's attention to specific words, phrases, or topics, fostering joint attention.
These apps often include features like eye-tracking and switch access, which can help users with physical disabilities participate in shared attention activities.
What are some popular AAC apps that support shared attention?
Several AAC apps are designed to facilitate shared attention and communication. Here are a few notable examples:
| App Name | Key Features | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Proloquo2Go | Customizable grids, natural-sounding voices, and a wide range of symbols | iOS, Android |
| TouchChat | Pre-programmed pagesets, word prediction, and speech-to-text | iOS, Android, Windows |
| Grid | Eye tracking, switch access, and a comprehensive symbol library | iOS, Android, Windows |
How can communication boards support shared attention?
Communication boards, also known as core boards, are visual aids that display symbols or pictures representing words. They are often used in conjunction with assistive speech software to support communication and shared attention.
The first time I really looked at a core board, I noticed how the layout guided the user's focus. For instance, a core board might have a central section for core words (e.g., "more," "help," "want") and outer sections for topic-specific vocabulary.
To use a communication board effectively, the facilitator and the user should both be able to see the board clearly. The facilitator can point to symbols on the board to model language and direct the user's attention to specific words or phrases.
What strategies can be used to encourage shared attention?
Here are some strategies to encourage shared attention in educational and therapeutic settings:
- Follow the user's lead. Observe what the user is interested in and use that as a starting point for interaction.
- Use clear, concise language. Speak in short sentences and use simple vocabulary to help the user focus on the message.
- Model pointing and eye contact. Demonstrate how to use gestures and eye contact to direct attention to objects or activities.
- Provide choices. Offer the user options to encourage active participation in the interaction.
- Use visual aids. Incorporate communication boards, pictures, or other visual supports to help the user focus on the topic of conversation.
How much does an AAC device cost?
According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, the cost of an AAC device can vary widely depending on the features and complexity of the system. Here's a general breakdown:
| Device Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Low-tech devices (e.g., communication boards, picture cards) | $10 - $100 |
| Mid-tech devices (e.g., simple AAC apps, dedicated speech-generating devices) | $50 - $1,000 |
| High-tech devices (e.g., advanced AAC apps, eye-tracking systems) | $1,000 - $10,000 or more |
Many insurance plans and funding programs cover the cost of AAC devices, so it's essential to research available options and consult with a speech-language pathologist.
What resources are available for learning more about shared attention?
Resources for learning about shared attention include online courses, workshops, and educational materials designed for educators, therapists, and caregivers. These resources provide in-depth knowledge and practical strategies for fostering shared attention in various settings.
Coursera's platform offers courses on child development and communication strategies, including modules on shared attention. Additionally, organizations like the Autism Society provide workshops and webinars focused on supporting individuals with ASD and other communication difficulties.
Books such as "Engaging Autism" and "The Child with Special Needs" by Stanley Greenspan and Serena Wieder provide insights into shared attention and practical techniques for use.
Attention is key to communication and social interaction. Recognizing its value and using tools like assistive speech software and communication boards, we can help individuals with communication difficulties build this vital skill.
Frequently asked questions
What is shared attention in communication?
Shared attention is a mutual focus on a subject or activity, ensuring both parties are actively engaged. It’s the foundation of effective communication, reducing misunderstandings. For instance, eye contact during a conversation signals engagement, making the interaction more productive.
How does shared attention improve teamwork?
Teams that practice shared attention align goals and foster collaboration. In meetings, shared attention means everyone listens and contributes, leading to better decision-making. Studies show teams with high shared attention complete projects 20% faster.
Can shared attention be taught?
Yes, through active listening exercises and feedback. Role-playing scenarios help individuals practice focusing on the speaker. In workplaces, training sessions on shared attention can boost communication skills significantly.
What are common barriers to shared attention?
Distractions like smartphones or multitasking hinder shared attention. Noise and unclear communication also disrupt focus. Addressing these barriers, such as setting phone-free meeting times, can improve communication quality.
See also: Actions Pictures: Dynamic AAC Symbols.