Imagine the joy of your loved one sharing their thoughts and dreams with you for the first time. For families of individuals with communication disorders, this isn’t just a dream—it’s a journey filled with hope and possibility. Communication is a fundamental human right, and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices are key to unlocking that right for those with speech or language disorders.
Integrating AAC devices into daily home life can transform how your family connects and interacts. This article offers inspiring strategies and practical tips to enhance AAC device use at home, empowering both the user and the entire family.
Understanding Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
Before diving into strategies, let’s take a moment to understand what AAC is and how it benefits individuals with communication disorders. AAC encompasses a range of tools and methods used to supplement or replace speech for those who have limited or no ability to speak. These tools can be unaided, like gestures and sign language, or aided, like picture boards and high-tech speech generating devices.
High-tech AAC devices offer dynamic and customizable communication solutions. They produce spoken words and phrases, allowing users to express themselves more fully. Embracing AAC devices, particularly from early on, empowers individuals to participate more actively in their families and communities.
Addressing Common Challenges
Despite best efforts, families may face challenges when incorporating AAC devices into home life. Recognizing and proactively addressing these obstacles can lead to more effective communication.
- Technology Hesitation:
- Challenge: Some family members may feel intimidated by the device.
- Solution: Reach out to a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) for guidance, and take advantage of device training and product success team assistance.
- Resistance from the User:
- Challenge: The individual may be reluctant to use the device consistently.
- Solution: Find out why—perhaps it’s cumbersome or they feel self-conscious. Consider customizing the device to better suit their preferences and needs.
- Maintenance and Technical Issues:
- Challenge: Devices can experience technical glitches or require updates.
- Solution: Schedule regular maintenance and reach out for support when needed.
- Keep backup communication methods available during downtime.
- Lack of Time:
- Challenge: Busy schedules can make consistent practice challenging.
- Solution: Integrate AAC use into existing activities rather than adding new tasks. Even small moments add up over time.
Understanding that challenges are a normal part of the process helps in developing patience and persistence. Overcoming these obstacles strengthens the commitment to successful communication.
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Creating a Supportive Communication Environment
Establishing a supportive communication environment at home is the first step toward making AAC device usage a seamless part of everyday life and addressing some of the common challenges, discussed above. Here are some tips for successful AAC usage outside of speech therapy sessions:
- Establish Consistent Communication Routines:
- Keep the device present throughout the day so the user knows they can access their voice at all times.
- It can feel overwhelming to use the device throughout the day. At first, it may help to set aside dedicated times each day for device use, such as after meals or during quiet evenings.
- Create “communication moments” where the focus is on shared experiences and back and forth exchanges. This could be during play time, while sharing stories, or before bed.
- Consistency helps the user anticipate and prepare for interaction, reducing anxiety and building confidence.
- Encourage Family Participation:
- Involve all family members in using the AAC device during interactions.
- Siblings and extended family can learn basic functions to support communication.
- Model communication by using the device yourself throughout the day, showing its value and normalizing its use.
- Minimize Communication Barriers:
- Reduce background noise and distractions during conversations.
- Turn off televisions and put away mobile phones to create a focused environment.
- Designate a quiet, comfortable “communication zone” in your home.
Integrating AAC into Daily Routines
What if every routine activity became an opportunity for meaningful communication? By weaving AAC device use into daily routines, you make communication effortless and engaging.
Playtime Activities
Playtime is a natural setting for learning and communication. Integrate AAC to enhance interaction and fun.
- Game Instructions: Utilize the device for game instructions or choosing activities. Encourage expressions of enjoyment or preference, like saying “I love this game!” Games that require taking turns or making choices encourage active device use. For example, during a board game, the AAC user can use the device to express moves or ask for a turn.
- Storytelling: Create stories together, with the AAC user contributing ideas through their device. This promotes creativity and language development. Encourage them to describe characters or choose what happens next, enhancing narrative skills.
- Exploring Interests: Use the device to talk about favorite toys, games, or hobbies. Encouraging the individual to express likes and dislikes fosters engagement. This can lead to discovering new activities that the whole family can enjoy together.
Transitioning from playtime to mealtime can further enhance AAC use at home.
Mealtime Strategies
Mealtime offers rich opportunities for communication. Encouraging AAC use during meals can make this daily ritual more interactive and enjoyable.
- Expressing Preferences: Use the device to allow the individual to request specific foods or drinks. Phrases like “I want apple juice” or “More pasta, please” empower them to make choices. Also ask open-ended questions like “What would you like to eat?” and wait for responses. This not only supports communication but also promotes decision-making skills.
- Engaging in Conversation: Discuss the day’s events or upcoming activities. Use the deviceto share stories or express feelings, fostering a sense of inclusion. Ask open-ended questions that encourage the AAC user to share more, such as “What was your favorite part of today?”
- Modeling Communication: Family members can model AAC use by using the device themselves. This demonstrates its value and normalizes its presence at the table. Modeling shows that everyone communicates in various ways, reinforcing acceptance.
As the day winds down, bedtime routines offer additional opportunities for AAC use at home.
Bedtime Routines
Bedtime routines can be enriched with AAC, providing comfort and closure to the day.
- Sharing Feelings: Encourage the individual to express how they felt about the day’s events. Phrases like “I felt happy playing outside” can be facilitated through the device. Use aided language to speak the phrase while selecting one or two icons on the device. This reflection helps them process emotions and promotes emotional intelligence.
- Bedtime Stories: Incorporate the AAC device into reading time. The user can ask to turn pages or select stories, making them an active participant. They can also use the device to predict what happens next in the story or express preferences for certain characters. Programming the device with their favorite characters is a great way to increase engagement during story time.
- Expressing Needs: Use the device to communicate needs before sleep, such as “I need my teddy bear” or “Please turn off the light.” This ensures they feel comfortable and secure, knowing they can communicate any concerns.
Integrating the AAC device into routines not only improves communication skills but also strengthens family bonds.
3 Key Takeaways for Successful High-Tech AAC Use at Home
By embracing these empowering strategies, you can make a difference in your loved one’s ability to communicate and connect. A commitment to integrating high-tech speech communication devices at home paves the way for greater independence and enriched relationships. Here’s 3 main things to keep in mind as you embark on this transformative journey:
1) Collaborate with Speech-Language Pathologists and Other Professionals
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Professionals like SLPs, educators, and occupational therapists provide valuable support.
- Set Achievable Communication Goals:
- Work with SLPs to develop realistic and meaningful objectives.
- Goals might include expressing needs, making comments, or sharing stories. Monitor progress and adjust strategies as needed.
- Participate in Training Sessions:
- Enhance device proficiency through workshops and training offered by professionals.
- Learn how to program the device effectively.
- Understand best practices for fostering communication.
- Collaborate Across Environments:
- Coordinate with teachers and therapists to ensure consistency.
- Share successful strategies between home, school, and therapy settings.
- Use a communication notebook or digital app to update everyone involved.
- Access Professional Resources:
- Utilize materials provided by SLPs, such as communication boards or visual aids.
- Stay informed about the latest research and techniques in AAC.
2) Encourage Consistent Practice and Positive Reinforcement
Consistency and positivity are key to building effective communication habits.
- Set Dedicated Practice Times:
- Incorporate short, regular sessions into daily routines.
- Even 10-15 minutes a day can make a significant difference.
- Use timers or reminders to establish habits.
- Celebrate Successes:
- Acknowledge achievements, no matter how small.
- Verbally praise efforts and progress.
- Stay Patient and Supportive:
- Understand that progress takes time.
- Avoid expressing frustration, which can discourage the user.
- Encourage without adding pressure, creating a safe space for growth.
- Make It Fun:
- Turn practice into games or challenges.
- Keep your child engaged by selecting activities that are motivating to them.
- Involve peers or siblings for group activities.
- Communication is fun! Never be scared to be silly.
3) Troubleshoot and Seek Support
Challenges are a natural part of the process, but resources are available to help.
- Identify and Address Challenges:
- Openly discuss any difficulties with device use.
- Are certain functions confusing or hard to access?
- Seek solutions collaboratively.
- Utilize Support Teams:
- Reach out to support teams for assistance.
- They offer support and advice for any questions.
- Help and guidance with setting up the device and using the apps.
- Access Online Resources and Communities:
- Join forums or social media groups for families using AAC devices.
- Share experiences and tips.
- Attend webinars or virtual conferences on AAC topics.
- Stay Connected with Professionals:
- Regularly check in with your SLP for ongoing support.
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions or express concerns.
Empowering yourself with knowledge and support networks ensures that you can confidently navigate any hurdles along the way.
Explore How QuickTalker Freestyle™ Can Lead to a More Connected Future for Your Family
Enhancing AAC at home is a rewarding endeavor that can significantly improve communication and engagement for individuals with speech disorders. By integrating high-tech speech devices like the QuickTalker Freestyle into daily routines and engaging activities, you create a supportive environment that fosters growth and development.
AbleNet’s commitment to supporting high-tech speech device users extends beyond providing innovative tools. The ableCARE Product Success Team offers comprehensive assistance throughout the device’s five-year warranty period. They are dedicated to ensuring the best possible outcomes for users of the QuickTalker Freestyle.
The ableCARE team is available to help with any questions you may have:
- Device Setup: Guidance on setting up your QuickTalker Freestyle to suit your loved one’s needs.
- App Navigation: Assistance with using various apps compatible with the device.
- Unlimited Repairs: Peace of mind with unlimited repairs during the warranty period.
- Virtual Support: Access to remote assistance from the ableCARE team, ensuring personalized help no matter where you are.
- Speech-Language Pathologists on Staff: Direct access to professional SLPs who can offer expert advice and tailor the device usage to the patient’s needs.
- Device Growth with the Patient: The QuickTalker Freestyle can be customized and upgraded over time to adapt to the evolving communication needs of the user.
By leveraging the resources and expertise of the ableCARE Product Success Team, you can enhance the integration of the high-tech speech device into your daily life, maximizing its benefits and ensuring a smoother communication journey.
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Empower Your Loved One at Home Today
By embracing these strategies, you’re not just enhancing AAC device use—you’re opening doors to meaningful connections and a world where your loved one’s voice is heard loud and clear. Together, you can create cherished memories and foster independence through effective communication.
Don’t let communication barriers hold your loved one back. Begin your journey with AAC today by starting a benefit check for a high-tech speech communication device. Learn how it can transform your family’s connection and bring voices to life.
