Empowering Voices: AAC at Words First

Introducing Therapists Amy and Abi, Leading the Words First AAC Service

Every child and young person (CYP) has the right to a voice and to connect with the world around them. For some, this connection is only possible through assistive aids.

What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology (AT) is a broad term that encompasses any type of software, hardware, or system designed to maintain or enhance someone’s ability to engage in daily activities. This could include adaptations on a PC or a device to turn on lights.

What is AAC?

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It is a specific type of AT that helps individuals communicate. AAC encompasses a variety of communication aids: some support existing abilities (augmentative communication), while others replace speech entirely for those who cannot produce any speech (alternative communication).

AAC aids can be paper-based, like alphabet charts or communication books, or powered devices that require a battery or power source. Powered aids may include specific AAC devices or programs/apps that run on standard tablets or computers. Devices that produce spoken output for users are known as Voice Output Communication Aids (VOCAs).

Keeping Up with Acronyms

To help every child find their voice, it is essential for therapy services to support the diverse abilities and needs of CYPs. Using AT and AAC as a therapist requires specialist training and experience. A dedicated care pathway for assessment and therapy can greatly enhance these services.

This year at Words First, we are excited to introduce not just one but two new therapists to lead our specialist AAC service!

Introducing Occupational Therapist, Amy Wright

Amy Wright is an Occupational Therapist (OT) with 20 years of experience, passionate about helping children and young people with neurodisabilities. She has worked at the Wolfson Neurodisability Service at Great Ormond Street Hospital and is currently involved with The Children’s Trust, the UK’s leading charity for brain injuries in children.

At Words First, Amy will jointly lead the AAC service with Speech and Language Therapist Abi Larson. She will help determine the most suitable AAC solution for each CYP by assessing their cognition, motor skills, sensory abilities, preferences, and the environments in which they need assistance to communicate.

Amy will also assess the best access methods for using AAC systems, whether that’s through eye gaze, blinking, head movement, pointing, or even toe presses! Furthermore, she will ensure that the seating and positioning of the CYP optimally support their use of AAC while preventing issues like repetitive strain or back pain.

In her free time, you might find Amy running, cycling, attending yoga classes, or enjoying a musical!

Introducing Speech and Language Therapist, Abigail Larson

After graduating with first-class honours in Speech and Language Therapy, Abi worked at an international school in Belgium, supporting children aged 3-19 with Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN). Abi has previously worked with Words First and has experience providing universal, targeted, and specialist support in mainstream schools and Alternative Resource Provision (ARPs). She is also a licensed Makaton tutor and delivers workshops for parents and professionals on using Makaton.

More recently, Abi specialised in AAC within an NHS role, supporting CYP with complex needs. She is thrilled to return to the Words First family and continue her special interest in AAC.

SaLTs assess a CYP’s speech, language, and communication abilities to determine whether an AAC aid is appropriate. They help families make informed decisions, considering factors like vocabulary and how language is presented within the device. SaLTs also support CYPs in using AAC in real-life settings and provide guidance to communication partners, including teachers, teaching assistants, parents, and peers. Regular reviews of the AAC system are essential as a CYP develops and their needs change.

It Takes a Village

Learning to use AAC effectively takes time and support. It is not a magic wand that resolves communication challenges instantly. In addition to SaLTs and OTs, many crucial team members contribute to the success of AAC users, including families, carers, friends, teachers, TAs, and potentially physios, psychologists, and nurses. Collaborative communication between these professionals is key to integrating the AAC system into the CYP’s daily routines effectively.

Abi adds: “With the right aid and the right support, AAC can help a child or young person communicate whatever they want, to whomever they want, whenever they want.”

For more information about AAC, visit the UK’s leading charity, Communication Matters, or the International Society for AAC (ISAAC).