Happy National Speech-Language-Hearing Month! | Explore Support & Services for SLPs
Happy National Speech-Language-Hearing Month! | Explore Support & Services for SLPs
Welcome to our new series, “ableFamilies in Real Life,” where we celebrate the everyday victories, challenges, and heartwarming moments of ableFamilies. We’re kicking things off with the Jones family from sunny Saint Petersburg, Florida—a family whose love and teamwork shine as brightly as Clara’s smile.
The Joneses are a lively crew of six: Clara (age 3), her two big sisters Constance (23) and Isis (19), and her two big brothers Gage (21) and Wyatt (17). At the heart of it all is their mom, Miranda, who keeps everyone connected. Whether they’re spending time together or cheering Clara on at her latest pageant, this family is all about support and togetherness.
About nine months ago, Clara began using the QuickTalker Freestyle device. Since then, communication in the Jones home has become a true family affair. Everyone is learning about her device and ASL, and each day brings new opportunities to help Clara express herself—whether it’s through her favorite animals, colors, or daily routines like mealtime and play.
Clara’s siblings are her biggest fans. Here’s what they have to say about their journey:
Watching Clara learn to use her QuickTalker is incredible. Every time she tells us something new, it’s a win for all of us.
Learning ASL as a family has brought us closer. Clara inspires me to keep going, even when things are tough. She’s taught me so much about patience and joy.
I love seeing Clara’s face light up when she presses the button for her favorite animal. It’s those little moments—like breakfast together—where you see how far she’s come.
Clara is the bravest person I know. She never gives up, and she reminds me every day that we can do hard things as a family.
Some of Clara’s first victories with her device were learning her wild, farm, and water animal buttons—and she’s got those down pat! Mornings start with cheerful greetings and toy animals that help Clara identify and communicate. At breakfast, she uses her device to pick what she wants to eat, and the family uses it to share love and encouragement.
Miranda wishes she had learned the ins and outs of the device before Clara did—Clara’s a quick study! Her advice for other families just starting out: “Don’t give up—just keep trying.” Progress may take time, but every step forward is worth celebrating.
If Clara could share a message with other families, it would be this: Don’t give up. Learning to use an AAC device and ASL can be tough, and there will be frustrating days. But there’s hope at the end of the tunnel—and with patience and support, your family can do it, just like Clara.