I speak two languages and few Filipino dialects. In a given time, if I speak one language in a straight conversation, and then switch to another language, my brain would be doing the “buffering, and there will be a pause because my brain is doing its recalculation and sequencing of the words to translate”.
Augmentative Alternative Communication {AAC} is as intimidating as speaking several languages. Earlier on our AAC journey, we’ve done several options and we’ve tried many modalities {ie…sign language, pecs, pointing, but the electronic app did the trick}. At age 3, Matt showed me he was ready for AAC device.
When Matthew was in Kindergarten, our family was so blessed to have educators who shares their passion-to-make-a-difference with our son. My 1st day meeting these educators, I warned them … I am a helicopter parent, I will be hovering, don’t tell me you are good and experienced, show me!!. Tara and Ambia did just that … they showed me how phenomenal they are!! In 5 weeks with AAC, Matthew started gaining confidence, expressing his personality, and verbalizing words. He even knew how to change his core words in his AAC device. These two showed Matt his voice!!!!
The AAC session was very important to me because I want to know from the professionals if I am on the right path. Talking to Keisha, who’s daughter Rylee, who also have AS, is an accomplished author. Yes! She has published a book!!! Rylee is non-verbal but she can read and write!! This accomplishment might be a norm in the Tipton’s family but this is monumental for the whole AS Community. After talking for an hour, she shared that the most crucial and effective process is paying attention to your child’s style of learning. Meanwhile, two of the lecturers emphasized that when you incorporate AAC, don’t expect that your child will get it in few days, few months — sometimes it takes years before you see the result. Model, model, model! After attending the session, I am being validated that although I am no where close as others with AAC, I am on the right track.
As our family wrapped our AS Conference earlier than some, we hit some local touristy spots before saying adieu Kentucky!! ASF, Louisville KY — it was fun but the reality of AS has a way to Knockout the life out of us.
:)Thank you Amanda, Sandy, Kitty for you and your team’s leadership during the conference!!! Great to meet you all.
🙂
