by Stephanie Fassov, PRC-Saltillo Ambassador
You have a voice.
You have the right to use it.
When you communicate on AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), your words matter.
Autonomy means you get to decide what to say, when to say it, and how to say it. It is about people respecting your voice.
Think about this: How do you feel when someone really listens to and understands you?
What Is Autonomy?
Autonomy means being in charge of your own choices.
It means:
- You get to share your ideas.
- You get to tell your stories.
- You even get to state your values and beliefs, like saying what matters most to you. It feels like you can do anything!
When people respect your autonomy, you feel strong and proud.
Real Choice
Sometimes people offer you two options, like: “Do you want milk or water?”. That’s a choice, but it’s not the whole picture because you really want juice instead.
Real choice is when you get to:
- Talk about your favorite TV show or movie. (For me, it was the Annie movies. Once I learned Unity on my Pathfinder, I could finally tell people how much I loved them. It was freeing!)
- Tell your friend a story.
- Ask your own question.
- Share your feelings.
Think about this: What would you want to talk about on your AAC system?
Your Voice Shows Who You Are
Your device is not just a tool. It is your voice.
Without it, people might only see your needs. With it, they can see your humor, your likes, your dislikes, and your personality.
For me, AAC allows me to express my deeper values, such as wanting to connect with my family, contribute to my community, and live out my faith.
Try this: Use your AAC to tell someone what is important to you.
Taking Time
Using AAC takes time. And that’s okay.
Sometimes people may not wait. They might guess your words or move on. That can hurt.
But your words don’t disappear just because they take longer.
When people wait for me, it gives me the space to say what I really mean instead of just “yes” or “no.”
Think about this: How do you feel when people wait for you?
Try this: Program on your AAC system, saying “Please wait. I’m still typing.”
Starting Conversations
Answering questions is good, but starting a conversation is powerful.
When you start talking, you take the lead. You are in charge.
I love starting conversations with friends and family, sometimes about faith, sometimes about movies, sometimes just to make them laugh. It shows I’m more than my needs.
Think about this: What’s something you want to ask a friend or family member?
Try this: Use your AAC to start a conversation this week.
Environments Matter
Some places feel strict. Maybe your device feels like homework. That makes it hard to show who you are.
Other places feel free. You can try new words, make jokes, and explore. That helps your voice grow.
For me, talking with family and close friends is where I feel most free. They wait, they listen, and they laugh with me.
Think about this: Where do you feel most free to use your AAC?
Making Your AAC Fit You
Sometimes AAC systems don’t sound like you. Maybe the phrases feel too babyish. Perhaps the voice doesn’t match your age. That doesn’t feel right.
When your system has your words, your style, and your favorite expressions, you feel more like yourself.
I remember when I was first able to add words about Annie or talk about my faith, it made my device feel like my voice, not just a tool.
Try this: Add one new word or phrase to your AAC this week—something that shows your personality.
Autonomy Builds Confidence
You feel confident when your words land, when people laugh at your joke, agree with your idea, or respond to your opinion.
For me, confidence grew when people reacted to what I said about movies or when they asked me more about my beliefs. It showed they cared about the real me.
But when people rushed me or ignored me, my confidence shrank.
Think about this: When was the last time someone really responded to your words?
Relationships and Autonomy
The best relationships are the ones where people respect your voice. Friends and family who listen, wait, and see you as an equal strengthen your autonomy.
My family shows love when they let me join in conversations, even when it takes me longer. That’s when I feel most connected.
Think about this: Who in your life makes you feel listened to?
Try this: Tell that person “thank you for listening” on your AAC.
Power and Control
Sometimes, teachers, therapists, or family members control your AAC. They may take away your device or give you one that’s too simple. That takes away your freedom.
But good supporters give you more words, encourage you to use your AAC every day, and celebrate your growth. That builds your power.
For me, learning Unity gave me more power. It allowed me to grow and express so much more about who I am.
Think about this: Who helps you add words and grow with AAC?
Not Just Needs, Also Rights
AAC is not only for needs like asking for food or help with the bathroom. It is for your rights.
You have the right to:
- Speak.
- Be heard.
- Shape your own life.
For me, this means not just asking for things, but also sharing my faith, humor, and values.
Try this: On your AAC, say, “My voice is my right.”
The Big Picture
Autonomy is not extra. It is essential.
When you have autonomy, you can:
- Show who you are.
- Build strong friendships.
- Feel confident.
Autonomy is not about someone “letting you.” It is about everyone respecting your rights.
A Call to You
Ask yourself:
- Do people wait for your words?
- Do they treat your device as your authentic voice?
- Do they believe in your growth?
You deserve all of that.
Take your time. Start conversations. Use your humor. Add your favorite words. Remind people: your device is not just a machine, but also, and more importantly, it is you.
Final Thought: Autonomy is not a gift. It is your right.
Glossary
AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication):
Ways to talk when speech is hard. This can be a device, app, or picture board.
Autonomy:
Being in charge of your own choices and words.
Choice:
Getting to decide what you want to say or do.
Competence:
Feeling proud because you can do something well.
Customization:
Changing your AAC so it fits you, like your words, your voice, and your style.
Identity:
Who you are, such as your personality, likes, dislikes, and values.
Initiation:
When you start a conversation, instead of waiting for someone else.
Pace:
The time it takes to share your words on AAC. Everyone’s pace is different.
Power Imbalance:
When someone else has more control than you. Example: a teacher or adult who won’t let you use your AAC your way.
Relatedness:
Feeling close and connected to other people.
Rights:
Things every person should always have. Example: the right to talk, share ideas, and be heard.
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