10/14/2026
…I wasn’t initially interested in it and I didn’t want it to be one of my clinical sub-specialities.
But then there was one kid who needed an AAC device. So I learned more than I’d been taught in grad school. His device was a mess and so what I really learned is what I wouldn’t do ever again!
And then I attended trainings and I learned even more! I saw what it looked like when AAC was implemented poorly and how my AAC users needed a different approach. I saw how communication devices can be used for WAY MORE than requesting. They can be used to make jokes and be funny! They can be used to advocate by telling people to be “quiet” or “I don’t like it”.
My AAC users have taught me so much - mostly that when we make a decision about AAC, we make it in a similar way to how we would for an oral communicator. Would you take away their voice? No. Would you imitate their babbling and vocalizations?? Yes!!
This month is AAC Awareness Month - I challenge you to model language on an AAC users device for something that’s not a request or need. Get to know what they’re interested in and what’s funny to them. Focus on building engagement and connection through all sorts of functions of communication!
May your devices be charged and your sessions be so much fun!
