Rhythmic movement in practice (RMP) is an alternative approach for teaching communication skills to severely-profoundly multiply handicapped children. It integrates a motoric program (rhythmic motions) and experience with objects (cues for signals, materials, and equipment used) and utilizes the principles of coactive movement (teacher-child moving in unison). The coactive rhythmic movement helps the child exhibit some form of communicative intent, involving signals and behaviors that allow the child to purposefully interact with and control his/her environment. Five case examples of the approach are described which illustrate development of rapport, environmental awareness, improved social interaction, increased environmental control through gross motor movement, and student imitation skills. (CL)