I often get asked how Stalen is so good with his AAC device. We have worked so so hard. Here are some of the factors that had contributed to his success:

It’s very important to me so I’m always researching and working towards goals. I also am firm on these basic premises and have no problem shouting from the rooftops to everyone that his AAC goes wherever he goes, that it is his voice and under no circumstances should it be taken away or used as a punishment.

We follow a core word strategy. Stalen is introduced to and practices a new word about every 9 days. We started with words like stop, go, yes, no, more.

Vocabulary. We review and practice using vocabulary words for special occasions and seasons.

Modeling. I model every day. It is probably the strategy that has been the hardest to implement but so beneficial. Modeling means I use the iPad to talk to Stalen. It allows him to see what it looks like to communicate using the AAC device in real conversations. For me it was awkward at first but I set daily and weekly goals for myself and the more I used it the more comfortable I became with it.

Stalen loves technology. He is a scrolling maniac and we watch him go in awe. He texts, uses google maps, tries to purchase apps., can find anything on YouTube. He develops and works on his own skills that enable him to be quick on his device. This has served us so well.

SLP. We have consulted with an SLP on an ongoing basis to keep furthering Stalen’s proficiency with his AAC and we use his device in collaboration with other speech acquisition and development strategies. I also follow many apraxia strategies at home.

Usage. The more ways that you can incorporate the AAC into your daily life the better. Stalen uses his to request things but we also use it to make comments, play games, tell jokes, for arts & crafts and to read books. One of his favorite activities is painting and he loves to choose his paint colors on his AAC.