The Tea with AAC

My first job as an SLP, I had a student with a communication device I'd never even seen or heard of the program before. It took me weeks to learn it and feel competent enough to teach other professionals and work directly with my student.

8 years later, I've seen many programs and many students using (or not using) communication devices. The most important take away that I've come to realize is...

START EARLY

It can be really challenging for your child or student to be introduced to using a communication device when they are older. They have been so accustomed to using their current modes of communication, that it becomes a hurdle that they have to change what they have been doing (along with what they are doing at home).

I'm not saying students who are older don't find success here. My point is (just like with early intervention) start sooner rather then later. You have a high change of implementation with less hurdles, and learning a new way to communicate is like climbing a mountain in itself.

Be Mindful of EXPECTATIONS

Many parents think this is the answer - that after a week or two their child will inherently know how to use the device and the program. I mean they know how to use an iPad or how to use the remote to turn on the TV, right?

I believe it often goes overlooked that using communication device is literally like an English speaker learning Russian. Not only does the device user need to know words, but also how to navigate and repair messages. Depending on the layout of the device, it can be many pages of scrolling or 'motor planning' to get to the target word.

It. Takes. Time.

The best support we can do with AAC users is to be their champions. Cheer when they make requests or say 'NO' using their device. Model for them consistently, even if it is only 2 words for a 15 minute period. And the best advice of all is...be patient! Give them time. In the moments of language learning and as a whole. They are working hard to communicate.

I hope you find this post realistic and honest with a touch of love. Because speech therapy is a work of heart and we all deserve to have a voice.

-Christina