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. Today, we’re excited to introduce you to Jessica —an ableFamilies Parent Enthusiast—Justin, and their family from Largo, Florida—a family whose patience, teamwork, and love help Justin find his voice.
The family is a lively crew: Jessica (mom), Justin (6), and KD (dad), ID (brother), and AD (sister). Jessica loves working for AbleNet, caring for her children, and helping Justin succeed in fine motor and communication skills. She’s also a fan of pop rock music from the 70s, while KD is a hard worker and wonderful provider. ID helps with caring for Justin and their little sister, and AD, the youngest, brings energy and chaos to her older brothers’ lives.
For the past two years, Justin has been using the QuickTalker Freestyle as his main—and only—form of communication. The AAC device has become an essential part of daily life for the whole family. Jessica shares, “It’s the only way we know what exactly he wants to eat or drink or do. Otherwise, there was a lot of guessing because he is completely nonverbal with the exception of delayed echolalia which is not functional language.” ABA therapy and school routines have helped Justin engage with his peers and build communication skills.
Some of Justin’s first victories with his device were using his device to say “Mom” and starting to form two-word phrases. Justin uses his device from the moment he wakes up until he goes to bed—at home, at school, at therapy, and even when they’re out and about. “He uses it to tell us when he wants to eat and what he wants to eat. He tells us if he’s sleepy. He tells us if he wants to go somewhere or play with certain fidgets,” Jessica explains.
Jessica’s advice to other families just starting out: “Patience is key. It takes a lot of consistency and a ton of patience. Always presume competence because your kiddo is much wiser than you think.” Progress may take time, but every step forward is worth celebrating.
Stay tuned for more real-life stories from ableFamilies across the country. Want to share your family’s journey or have a question? Ask our Parent Enthusiasts or find more information and resources on our SupportHub.