by Keagan Sweeney, PRC-Saltillo Ambassador
Let’s get one thing clear:
If I use AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), that doesn’t mean I can’t think. It doesn’t mean I don’t understand you. And it definitely doesn’t mean I don’t have something important to say.
In fact, I probably have a lot to say — thoughts, opinions, ideas, humor, insight, questions, and answers. I hear your conversations. I carry your secrets. I notice everything. And still, you often forget to ask me what I think.
And now that you know this,
I bet you’re wondering how many of your secrets I’ve shared.
(Don’t worry — I haven’t. Yet.)
But it does make you think, doesn’t it?
Here’s something else to consider:
AAC users are careful with our words — not because we’re afraid to speak, but because it takes real effort to get each word out. Every sentence we build takes time, planning, and intention. So when we say something, we mean it.
People who speak with their voices can say anything, anytime — and they often do. You toss words around, fill silence with noise, speak without thinking. You take the power of your words for granted.
We don’t.
AAC users choose our words carefully. We’ve had to learn how to communicate with purpose. And that’s something you could probably learn from us.
AAC is just a tool — like a hammer and a nail.
But a tool alone doesn’t build anything. People do. You need to use the tool with intention, respect, and effort.
And here’s the thing: using AAC is a lot like texting. Actually, it is texting — just with a voice at the end. I type or tap my words. The device speaks. It’s not “less than” talking — it is talking. It just looks different.
So if I use AAC, don’t just ask me what I want.
Ask me what I think.
Ask me what I notice.
Ask me about my ideas, my knowledge, my experience, and my point of view.
I want what we all want — to be seen, heard, and understood.
Teach me. Include me. Challenge me.
Talk to me, not just about me.
AAC users are not empty. We are not invisible. We are not less.
We are thinkers. We are contributors.
We are builders — of relationships, of knowledge, of community.
So use your noggin — and include us.
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Communicators In Action