10/29/2026
Speech is only one form of communication.
Some people understand much more than their speech or motor responses can consistently demonstrate. Others communicate through AAC, spelling, typing, gestures, movement, scripts, facial expressions, or a combination of methods.
We also need to be careful about saying every behavior is communication. Actions may give us important information, but impulsivity, sensory needs, trauma responses, apraxia, dyspraxia, and difficulty initiating or inhibiting movement can affect what the body does.
The answer is not to make assumptions. It is to provide access, time, regulation support, multiple communication options, and genuine opportunities to be heard.
At Rooted Beginnings, communication access begins with presuming competence.