Use of Concrete Symbols

Symbolic expression makes it possible to express thoughts and feelings about the future, as well as experiences that have already happened. It frees individuals from having to communicate only about things that are happening in the here and now. (NCDB, 2008)

A symbol is something that stands for or represents a person, object, place, activity, or concept. Language, for example, involves the use of symbols in the form of written, spoken, or signed words. These types of symbols are abstract, meaning that there is no obvious relationship between a symbol and what it represents (e.g., the word "dog" does not look or sound or feel like a dog).               

Symbols can also be concrete, which means they do have an obvious relationship to what they represent. A spoon might mean "time for breakfast." Concrete symbols include symbolic gestures, symbolic vocalizations, and tangible symbols (objects or pictures). Their use builds on presymbolic communication skills.

See also:

• Emerging (Presymbolic) Communication
• Calendar Systems