"I want my child to talk. Will using a communication device stop my child from talking?"

Will My Child Stop Talking If They Use a Communication Device? The Answer Might Surprise You!

It’s completely normal to have concerns about your child’s development, especially when it comes to communication. Many parents wonder, “If I give my child a communication device, will they stop talking?” The quick answer: NO! Your child will not stop talking if they use a communication device. In fact, the opposite may happen—they might talk more!

Common Concerns Parents Have About Communication Devices

We hear these questions all the time from parents:

• “My child doesn’t talk yet.”

• “My child points at things, but they don’t say what it is.”

• “I’m worried my child will get lazy and stop using their words.”

• “I’m scared my child will never use their voice.”

We get it—these worries are real. But we’re here to clear up the myths surrounding communication devices (also known as AAC, or Augmentative and Alternative Communication). Let’s break it down.

Myth #1: Communication Devices Will Stop My Child from Using Their Voice

False! In fact, an AAC device is a tool that supports and encourages all forms of communication—including speech! It gives your child additional ways to express themselves, whether through words, gestures, or pictures. And most importantly, it doesn’t replace talking; it helps build communication skills in every form.

So, How Can an AAC Device Help?

Let’s think of it this way: If you were in a country where you didn’t speak the language and your phone battery died, what would you do? You’d probably try gestures or charades to get your point across. It’d be frustrating, right? Well, that’s how your child might feel when they can’t express themselves with words.

But guess what? AAC devices come with tons of pictures, words, and symbols to make it easier for your child to communicate what they want—whether it’s for food, a toy, or just saying hello. This reduces frustration, boosts confidence, and actually encourages them to use both words and the device to communicate.

Myth #2: My Child Will Never Talk if They Use the Device

Not true! Using both speech and an AAC device together is like giving your child superhero powers! Here’s why:

1. More Ways to Talk

• Think of it as a backup plan. If your child can’t find the right word, they can use the AAC to show what they mean. More ways to communicate = more chances to be understood.

2. Learning Through Both Methods

• When your child says a word out loud and taps it on the AAC, it’s like they’re teaching their brain in two ways! They get to hear the word and see the word, which helps them remember it and use it more often.

3. Helping Speech Grow

• Believe it or not, using an AAC device can actually help improve your child’s speaking skills. When they point to a word or picture on the device and say it out loud, they’re practicing their speech muscles. The more they practice, the better they get!

4. Learning More Words

• Sometimes it’s tough to find the right word when you need it. AAC devices have a huge selection of words at your child’s fingertips, making it easier for them to say exactly what they want. More words = more chances to express themselves!

5. Talking with Friends and Family

• With both speech and an AAC device, your child can join in on conversations more easily. If they can’t say something out loud, they can use the device to fill in the gaps. It helps them stay involved in social situations, whether it’s with family, friends, or classmates.

6. Building Confidence

• Imagine how much more confident your child will feel when they know they have two ways to communicate. They won’t have to worry about being misunderstood, and that confidence can help them speak more!

7. Improving Over Time

• The more your child uses both speech and an AAC device, the better they get at both! It’s like learning to communicate in two languages—one through speech, and the other through the device.

Prolouqo2go Communication App in Speech Therapy at Therapy Talks

The Bottom Line: Two Tools Are Better Than One

Using an AAC device along with talking is like giving your child a toolbox full of extra tools to help them communicate. It’s a win-win: they get to practice speaking when they can, and use the AAC device when they need a little extra support. And over time, both tools will help your child communicate better, faster, and with more confidence!

So, rest assured—an AAC device won’t stop your child from using their voice. Instead, it’ll help them use their voice in even more powerful ways!

Don’t forget to check out our Instagram page @therapy.talks.slp for more tips, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes content.

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