Happy National Speech-Language-Hearing Month! | Explore Support & Services for SLPs
Happy National Speech-Language-Hearing Month! | Explore Support & Services for SLPs
Welcome back to ableFamilies in Real Life, where we celebrate the families making communication part of everyday life. This time we are heading to Maryland to meet Joshua, a young AAC user whose family has watched his world open up since the QuickTalker Freestyle speech device joined their routine one year ago.
Joshua is autistic and non-speaking, and his family says that having an AAC device opened a new door for communication. Every button pressed, every word selected, every request made, and every feeling expressed has become a victory. The family’s journey is still unfolding, and they celebrate progress no matter how big or small.
Communication at home looks like a mix of tools: the QuickTalker Freestyle, picture cards, and both physical and verbal prompting. Behind all of it, his family says, are lots of dedication and patience. Everyone in the household picks up the device to help Joshua communicate, especially when he is upset and needs his words the most.
The early days had their challenges. At first, Joshua would run away from his device or throw it on the floor. His family stuck with it, and the QuickTalker Freestyle now goes everywhere with him.
A recent moment that made his family smile says it all: Joshua carrying his device and adding it to his backpack on his own. No reminder needed. For a family that has put in so much patience, watching him take ownership of his voice was a proud moment.
If Joshua could share something himself, his pick would be restaurant buttons. Adding several to his device is his favorite thing to do, and it is easy to see why.
Looking back, his family wishes they had learned sooner just how many options the QuickTalker Freestyle has. Their advice to other families just getting started is to dive in and explore the different buttons and features. Don’t give up, be patient, and trust the process, because the time and dedication will benefit your child in the future.
The family’s motto sums up their approach: be patient.
Stay tuned for more real-life stories from ableFamilies across the country. Want to share your family’s journey or have a question? Our Parent Enthusiasts are here for you. You can also explore additional resources, guidance, and community connections on our SupportHub.