Every individual has something to say and for children who communicate using methods beyond speech, finding the right tools to share their thoughts, needs, and feelings can make all the difference. When individuals have access to communication supports that match their needs, amazing things can happen. The QuickTalker Freestyle is a high-tech speech device designed to be flexible and customizable so that it can meet users where they are. Recent parent survey data from QuickTalker Freestyle users offers insights into the value of AAC use that can help guide decision making and family support when starting the AAC journey.
Understanding AAC: Supporting Every Child’s Right to Communicate
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) encompasses all the ways people communicate – gestures, facial expressions, writing, symbols, and speech-generating devices like the QuickTalker Freestyle. For children who communicate through methods other than speech, AAC devices provide additional pathways to express what they’re already thinking and feeling. Communication happens in many forms and high-tech speech devices provide an option for communication that honors each individual’s unique communication style while ensuring they can connect with others on their own terms.
Real Life Impact of AAC
AbleNet recently surveyed parents of children ages 1 to 5 who have been using the QuickTalker Freestyle speech device. After one year of use, families shared how this AAC tool has enhanced their children’s ability to be understood and participate more fully in daily life.
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Communication Growth
Parents report an incredible story of growth when their children have access to AAC. Parents of QuickTallker Freestyle users were surveyed and 89% of parents reported their child is making more requests, allowing them to ask for what they need without communication breakdowns. Language growth extended far beyond basic needs, with parents reporting their children express feelings more often (73%), make comments (71%), and even advocate for themselves by protesting when they don’t want something (69%).
Nearly two-thirds of parents report their children are now asking and answering questions more frequently (65%) and commenting on what’s happening around them (64%). The QuickTalker Freestyle has given these individuals the chance to actively participate in interactions and in decision making.
Parents observed their children expanding how they communicate in the following ways:
- 89% of children are making more requests
- 73% are expressing more feelings
- 71% are more often describing the people, objects, and actions around them
- 69% are protesting more effectively when they don’t want something
- 65% are asking and answering questions more frequently
- 64% are commenting more on what’s happening in their environment
Building Blocks for Future Success
The QuickTalker Freestyle isn’t just facilitating communication in the moment; it’s building language foundations for the future. 87% of parents report their child has developed a better understanding of language overall. This comprehension extends beyond the device itself, with 84% seeing increases in verbal speech and 79% noticing more complex language use, including longer phrases and complete sentences, both with the device and verbally.
This finding challenges the misconception that communication devices might somehow inhibit verbal speech development. Instead, parents are seeing the opposite: the device serves as a bridge, supporting and encouraging verbal communication rather than replacing it.
The survey revealed that AAC supports language development in the following ways:
- 87% of parents report their child has a better understanding of language
- 84% notice more verbal speech (for those who use speech)
- 79% observe more words, phrases, and sentences being used both with the device and verbally
Less Frustration through Communication Access
Nearly 60% of parents reported that their children experienced less frustration and fewer challenging moments. When children have reliable ways to express themselves, the stress of being misunderstood naturally decreases. This isn’t about changing the child – it’s about giving them tools that work for them.
From a clinical perspective, this suggests that access to robust communication tools may positively impact emotional regulation – a finding that aligns with current research on the relationship between communication access and behavior.
Empowering Children, Supporting Families
The QuickTalker Freestyle represents more than just a communication device – it’s a tool that recognizes and supports the diverse ways individuals interact with their world. When children have access to communication methods that match their needs, they can more fully participate in family life, education, and their communities.
These parent observations reinforce several key principles in AAC implementation:
Early implementation matters: Children as young as 12 months are successfully using high-tech AAC to expand their communication
Multi-modal communication is natural: Parents report growth in both device use AND verbal output
Communication access impacts quality of life: Reduced frustration and increased participation were consistent themes
When discussing AAC options with families, these outcomes can help address common concerns and misconceptions. Parents often worry that AAC will prevent speech development or that their child is
“too young” for high-tech solutions. This data suggests otherwise – families are seeing their children flourish with appropriate AAC support.
These survey results remind us that with the right supports, every child can share their unique perspective with the world. The QuickTalker Freestyle doesn’t change who these children are – it amplifies their voices and ensures they’re heard, understood, and valued exactly as they are.
Interested in learning more about how the QuickTalker Freestyle can support your child’s communication journey? Visit AbleNet to explore how AAC can open new pathways for connection and understanding.
