As an AAC specialist for a school district in Southern California, I've had the privilege of
witnessing how augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) can enhance not just
educational outcomes, but also personal relationships.
One particularly heartwarming case involves a high school couple in an extensive support needs classroom—Johnny (an AAC user) and Sally (a non-AAC user).
What makes this case so remarkable is how Johnny's motivation to communicate has flourished through his relationship with Sally. His AAC device usage has increased significantly when interacting with his girlfriend. Johnny skillfully navigates between quick-fire messages and thoughtfully typed communications using his keyboard, demonstrating how meaningful social connections can be powerful motivators for communication development.
Communication Through Connection
- Gaining Attention: Johnny initiates interactions with phrases like "Hey" or "Look at this."
- Offering Affection: He expresses feelings with messages like "I like your hair" and "You make me smile."
- Asking Questions: His curiosity drives conversations through questions about Sally's interests and experiences.
- Telling Jokes: Johnny programs and shares humor specifically to make Sally laugh.
Teacher Support Strategies
Their classroom teacher facilitates communication by ensuring Johnny's device is charged and accessible, optimizing seating to promote their interaction, providing extended wait time when Johnny wants to contribute, and encouraging Sally to occasionally model vocabulary on Johnny's device, when appropriate.
Tips for SLPs Working with Multi-modal Communicators
- Honor Age-Appropriate Interests: Support communication topics that reflect teens' social development, including their romantic relationships.
- Embrace Natural Communication: Allow flexibility for spontaneous exchanges, even when they interrupt planned activities.
- Measure Functional Progress: Focus on communicative attempts in natural settings, client satisfaction, and communication functions.
- Include Students in Customization: Involve AAC users in personalizing vocabulary, layout, and voice output, whenever possible.
Johnny and Sally's relationship demonstrates how genuine connection drives communication development. Real social connections motivate AAC users to communicate more frequently and effectively. Their story reminds us that in both love and communication, actions truly speak louder than words.
Author: Alex Redfern, M.S., CCC-SLP
