COMMUNICATION BELIEFS AND AAC: Supporting SUCCESSFUL CONVERSATIONS
Today, let's talk about something essential: our beliefs about communication and how they relate to AAC.
We all have beliefs—about life, people, and even superstitions like wearing a lucky shirt for a winning streak! These beliefs shape our thoughts and actions. They can also change over time as we learn and grow.
Now, how does this connect to AAC? Well, our beliefs influence what we think successful communication is all about—the way it looks, sounds, and feels. Often times the idea of using AAC to communicate disrupts our core belief of communication.
When we take the time to get curious about families' and professionals' beliefs around communication, we can have more productive conversations about AAC use. After we understand their beliefs, we can ask them to set goals. Have a conversation with teachers, families, or even with yourself, asking, "What does successful communication look like for this individual?"
When we have these conversations, it helps us understand others' thoughts about communication and challenges if their beliefs match the goals they're setting.
Here's the thing: AAC is often left out of goals, making it tough for speech therapists to get parents on board. But by discussing beliefs and goals, we can guide this conversation. Start with these question:
Are you open to using communication support?
Are you willing to try something new?
Can we try this for the child right now?
Remember, if families still hesitate to use AAC, it's essential to be compassionate. Listen, understand, and find ways to move forward, even if it means revisiting the conversation later.
Communication and beliefs go hand in hand, and understanding this connection can make a world of difference in how we support individuals using AAC. Keep those conversations going—they're the key to opening doors to successful communication!
Download the FREE Mindset Map to talk about the 6 steps needed to get in the right mindset for AAC support.
Lauren Greenlief