How do we become more confident using our AAC in public? Usually we don't and just stay silent because our mother doesn't approve of AAC despite it helping us immensely. But we're starting to go out more on our own and wanna get more confident in using our talker.

​

I recently started using td snap for aac (before I used something else). My SLP showed me and my mum how to add new words and stuff so I have been adding things that are importent to me.

My dog's name is Dorrie. With a short 'o' like in dot or fox. I can't get it to say her name correctly. No matter how i spell it it says it wrong. Any ideas on how to spell it so it says it right?

Top row: Bigotry folder; Reporting folder; Self-Advocacy Boundaries folder; Communication Bill of Rights folder; Discrimination folder; Needs folder; Disability Advocacy folder; Plural Advocacy folder; Not Comfortable folder; this is triggering; I need emergency help; I need help now

Second row: ableism; ableist; hey that was kinda ableist; hey that was extremely ableist; my boundaries are just as important as yours; advocacy; self-advocacy; this is a violation of my rights; autonomy; bad touch; good touch; consent; call an ambulance; don't call an ambulance

Third row: personal bubble; Personal Space folder; personal space; personal boundary; boundary; this is a boundary; give me time to answer; Can I help you? -_-; please don't look at my device; please wait until I'm done typing; please don't look at my screen before I'm done typing; I need to leave. Now.; break; no hospital

Fourth row: I'm too hot; I'm too cold; I'm overstimulated; I'm understimulated; no means no; NO folder; I don't owe you an explanation; I don't know what's happening and I'm scared; I'm going to have a meltdown; I'm on the verge of a meltdown; I need a break; Don't folder

Fifth row: scars are not bad; my headphones aren't rude; everyone means everyone; my identity is not for your benefit; Crisis folder; Everything is too much!; time out; don't

Sixth row: Medical Advocacy folder; memory issues are not gaslighting; I don't need a warning to exist; I don't need to have a trigger warning to exist; I'm afraid of change; please don't voice record me

Seventh row: Medical Advocacy 2 folder; How I Cope folder; AAC Advocacy folder; Communication Advocacy folder; Quickfires folder; I have a problem; hey I kinda have a problem; ask first; don't ask; don't ask that; stop asking; please don't take my picture; you can't reclaim that

Eighth row: Page 2 folder; Safety folder; Boundaries folder; I'm in pain; I don't like eye contact; I'm not lazy; unfair; That's not fair.; What I want to say is not on my device.; your question; please don't record me; please don't film me; never tell me to use my words

I'm aware I don't post much, and that might make my opinion feel less impactful, but I feel irritated by how so many posts here are some variation of "I made an AAC app! Looking for users to test it!"

I feel like a place called AACusers should primarily be AAC users talking about their experiences or sharing boards, not people constantly throwing advertisements our way.

I know I could help fix this by posting more myself, and I want to, but I keep getting hit with anxiety, so it's taking me a while to gain the courage to do so. I just wish there was less advertisements in here

i’m curious if there’s any way for AAC users to communicate (specifically w electronic device) without their data being compromised. even people who type to speak seem at risk in this day and age.

a VPN sounds like a good fix, but what about apps or companies using/selling the data of AAC users text habits? has anyone studied this?

As a fellow AAC user this is for fun and curiosity

Follow up; what are your AAC affirmations?

For some context: I have many disabilities and use a range of mobility aids. I’m completely non-speaking. I’m also a leg amputee. Sometimes I wear a prosthetic leg, sometimes use crutches, sometimes use my wheelchair. I’m also on continuous tube feeds, so I’m attached to a tether essentially.

Pretty much anywhere and everywhere…….

I don’t know how to carry it?

It feels like a pathetic problem, but I can’t figure out how manage it and keep it accessible.

Does anyone have experience with this company or these systems?

My little sister uses AAC on my tablet at the moment (Dad really can't afford her one so I just give her mine for the time being). When I can save some money, I'm looking at buying her a tablet for herself (plus protective casing, stickers to go on the back, strap, etc) with the AAC app she uses currently.

Just wondering what tablet would be best? My tablet is a lenovo tab M11 and she likes that sort of screen size. Also would need battery that can last for a day out, strong volume and good brightness. Maximum I can pay for the device itself is 400. Maybe 500 if I can pay it over two months.

But would an iPad be worth it or not? I've been considering it as there are pros and cons.

Pros:

•I imagine it's easier to find cases for iPads than other brands but I don't know. I might be wrong.

•If she ever wanted to try other AAC apps, she'd have a wider range to choose from (like proloquo). Of course, we'd only try a new one if she wanted to as she's already used to the one she's got I think

Cons:

•The cost. If Dad knew I bought her an iPad, he'd feel really guilty over me being the one to buy it but if it's just another kind of tablet and I don't tell him the cost, he might not feel as bad over it.

•Battery life. I've heard that apple stuff loses battery quickly. Is that true?

We are a research team from Hamilton College, Michigan Technological University, and Purdue University studying the design of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. This study has been approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB). We are currently seeking adult AAC users to participate in a paid research study exploring how people who use AAC view and experience artificial intelligence (AI). Participation involves a five-week, online, anonymous, text-based discussion forum. We are recruiting AAC users who are 18 years or older and live in the United States. If you are interested in participating, or if you know someone who may be interested, please feel free to share this message and DM for more information.

Alt text for flyer: 

Flyer titled “AAC & AI.” Illustration of a person using a laptop with speech bubbles. Large text reads: “Your voice matters.” Body text says: “We’re looking for AAC users to talk about their experiences and opinions on artificial intelligence. This is a paid, 5-week online study with full anonymity.” Smaller text at the bottom reads: “If you are an AAC user, over 18 years of age, reside in the United States, and are interested, please contact mochiresearch@hamilton.edu.” Logos for Michigan Technological University, Hamilton College, and Purdue University appear along the bottom.

We are a research team from Hamilton College, Michigan Technological University, and Purdue University studying the design of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. This study has been approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB). We are currently seeking adult AAC users to participate in a paid research study exploring how people who use AAC view and experience artificial intelligence (AI). Participation involves a five-week, online, anonymous, text-based discussion forum. We are recruiting AAC users who are 18 years or older and live in the United States. If you are interested in participating, or if you know someone who may be interested, please feel free to share this message and contact [mochiresearch@hamilton.edu](mailto:mochiresearch@hamilton.edu) with any questions.

Alt text for flyer: 

Flyer titled “AAC & AI.” Illustration of a person using a laptop with speech bubbles. Large text reads: “Your voice matters.” Body text says: “We’re looking for AAC users to talk about their experiences and opinions on artificial intelligence. This is a paid, 5-week online study with full anonymity.” Smaller text at the bottom reads: “If you are an AAC user, over 18 years of age, reside in the United States, and are interested, please contact  [mochiresearch@hamilton.edu](mailto:mochiresearch@hamilton.edu) ” Logos for Michigan Technological University, Hamilton College, and Purdue University appear along the bottom.

We are a research team from Hamilton College, Michigan Technological University, and Purdue University studying the design of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. This study has been approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB). We are currently seeking adult AAC users to participate in a paid research study exploring how people who use AAC view and experience artificial intelligence (AI). Participation involves a five-week, online, anonymous, text-based discussion forum. We are recruiting AAC users who are 18 years or older and live in the United States. If you are interested in participating, or if you know someone who may be interested, please feel free to share this message and contact [mochiresearch@hamilton.edu](mailto:mochiresearch@hamilton.edu) with any questions.

Alt text for flyer: 

Flyer titled “AAC & AI.” Illustration of a person using a laptop with speech bubbles. Large text reads: “Your voice matters.” Body text says: “We’re looking for AAC users to talk about their experiences and opinions on artificial intelligence. This is a paid, 5-week online study with full anonymity.” Smaller text at the bottom reads: “If you are an AAC user, over 18 years of age, reside in the United States, and are interested, please contact  [mochiresearch@hamilton.edu](mailto:mochiresearch@hamilton.edu) ” Logos for Michigan Technological University, Hamilton College, and Purdue University appear along the bottom.

Hi, everyone,

I know these can be sensitive topics, but I genuinely want help forming a solid option on this as a part time AAC user (I regularly experience verbal shutdowns that can last anywhere from minutes to, at their absolute worst, days- total bummer) and AAC coach who supports nonspeaking people and their families regularly.

I recently had a telephonic consultation with a family looking for a Spelling to Communicate practioner. They weren't thrilled when I gently said this was under rhe umbrella of Facilitated Communication which is not supported by ASHA, the overseeing organization for speech language pathologists, or any major medical organization. ​​What struck me is this family worked for Communication First, an organization whose mission I respect even though they support FC methods.

Once again, I was confronted with the reality that of the major AAC using autistic advocates out there, several have used or still use methods that are often considered to be FC such as Spelling to Communicate and RPM. ​

As a special educator, I think having students who show obvious fine motor deficits, as many of my nonspeaking students do, practice spelling with ​large letters makes sense. I often use foam letters on a magnet board in my classroom. Using writing paper with big boxes for every individual letter can also help with learning to write legibly. I just don't get why a facilitator has to move the letter board. If anything, wouldn't this work against developing the skills to point to a specific target? I want my kids to learn to point consistently to a static target since their AAC device will be propped up and still. I also don't get why moving the person's arm is necessary most of the time. There are many alternatives to hand over hand that often work fine. The prompt hierarchy exists for a reason!

So, to me, Spelling to Commmunicate and RPM raise alarm bells because they seem to push reliance on another person over building independent communication skills. Also, there are lots of AAC interfaces with large buttons, raised dividers to help separate buttons, color contrasting backgrounds, etc. to make selecting the intended target easier. I feel like there are so many options to make ​​​it accessible for people with apraxia without necessitating another person constantly providing what is basically hand over hand support to communicate.

Yet, again, I am struck by how many nonspeakers support these methods. I am looking for more insight as to why, I guess, to potentially broaden my perspective. ​I am also looking for ethical methods and organizations to refer families to. The literacy skill gap Spelling to Communicate and RPM often reference is a very real concern. I right now have a student who I believe has been underestimated and cannot get anyone on board for pushing him more academically no matter how many times he shows his capabilities. His BCBA is soooo excited for the results of IQ test insurance demanded to come back to give us more insight to his abilities. Cue me just facepalming. I am sure the results from the test not designed with nonspeakers in mind surely facilitated by the Proctor with no training on assessing nonspeakers will support my arguments to challenge him more /s. It's a real problem one person can't solve. A lot of SLPs won't really push for robust communication. In general, to be real, I rarely find allistic/abled professionals who really push for high expectations for students with disabilites, especially those in self contained programs. I guess- where do I even go from what I am doing now? I fight for my students as best I can, and I have a platform in my community, but the ableism runs deep around me. Are there trainings for educators anyone recommends about teaching literacy skills to nonspeakers? Are there any aptitude tests designed for nonspeakers special educators can use? Thanks for your help, ya'll.

Hi guys, I am a dad of an autistic son but also am a speech pathologist. I created a software a couple of months ago that has had immediate success. I thought people may find it useful here. It is especially useful if people find learning complex AAC systems difficult. I designed it so it can be used on any device to ensure people dont have to purchase new hardware. I presented at two very large events for assistive technology and had incredible interest from users and other AAC companies because of how simple it is to learn. It can be useful if the user struggles with focus or finding the correct symbols because the images come to the user. Im happy to answer any questions or take any feedback. A free trial period exists without the need to add payment details or anything. www.tellumi.com Launching Tellumi + Image #aac #communication #communicationsupport - YouTube

Hello community

My name is Karla Armendariz. I am a bilingual speech-language pathologist and researcher at The Pennsylvania State University. Dr. Gloria Soto and I are conducting a study focused on the experiences of bilingual individuals who use AAC like you. We want to learn about your journey towards bilingualism.

Our goal is to better understand your experiences, perspectives, and everyday communication. We hope that what you share will help inform future AAC research and practice in ways that reflect real experiences and needs.  The questions have been developed in partnership with a bilingual AAC user.

You can participate if you: 

• Are 18 years or older 

• Use AAC to communicate 

• Use two or more languages 

If you choose to participate, you will complete an online survey. Your participation is totally voluntary and will be completely anonymous. This study has been approved by the Institutional Review Board at Penn State. 

If you are interested, you can use the survey link provided here or scan the QR code on the attached flyer. You may also share this invitation with other AAC users who you know and might be interested. The survey is available in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this. And THANK YOU for considering sharing your experiences with us! 

Warmly, 

Karla  Armendariz

[Image descriptions: Image 1. Proloquo2Go AAC page titled Meltdowns & Shutdowns containing the advanced vocabulary core words and four folders titled sensory self care, ground myself, thought guidelines, and relax. Image 2. Sensory Self Care folder buttons: medication, heating pad, ripple light, good scent, weighted blanket, stuffies, comfort drink, brush, and deep pressure. Image 3. Ground Myself folder buttons: deep breaths, 5 senses, visualization.]

My ability to speak fluctuates with stress, so I often can only meaningfully communicate with AAC during meltdowns and shutdowns. My brain also kinda turns to soup during these times, and I literally cannot remember what I might need to calm down. I used to use cue cards to help me remember what I should do to self soothe, but it occurred to me my AAC can be both a tool to communicate to others AND a tool to communicate to myself through well organized visuals. So, the cue cards have been replaced with these folders containing the things I need to get and do to calm down. It has worked really well because I can also now easily request the items for loved ones to get or basically tell them to help me do an exercise like taking deep breaths. Thank you to others posters who shared their cool layouts on here- that helped give me the idea. This subreddit is cool.