Meet Remy
For children with complex communication needs, finding ways to express themselves that work for them can be life-changing. Remy is a happy and determined boy, but being non-speaking has often led to frustration when others struggle to understand him. With the introduction of AAC and Grid for iPad, his world is beginning to open up. We spoke to his family about their journey so far. Just before Remy turned six, we started looking into AAC. We had tried PECS and Makaton, but they didn’t work for him. He had been using a communication board at school, and since he loves his iPad, we thought AAC could be the right fit. His speech and language therapist, along with friends who use Grid, recommended it, so we decided to give it a go. Grid was really easy to set up and personalise for Remy. It took him a little time to adjust, but he is making progress every day. One of the most exciting things has been how AAC has actually encouraged his verbal communication – he has started saying new words after hearing them spoken on the device. We model with him every day, and his device goes everywhere with us. He uses it to tell us what he wants to eat, what he wants to watch on TV, and what he wants to play with, which has really helped reduce frustration. He’s also about to start taking it to school, which is really exciting! Voco Chat has been especially helpful, with quick words for asking for help or the toilet and a phrases section where we’ve added his gestalts. It has given him a way to communicate with people who don’t know him as well, making interactions much smoother. Remy is so much calmer now that he has a way to express himself, and he’s interacting with us more. He loves choosing what to watch on TV since he can’t use the remote himself, often asks for food, and enjoys listening to his favourite phrases on his device and copying them verbally. It really feels like he’s beginning to understand the purpose of communication, and we’re excited to see how he continues to grow! Keep going and model at every opportunity. Personalise the device with things they love—it makes a big difference. He is improving every day, and I can only imagine that will continue. The progress in his verbal communication has been incredible, and I truly believe we’ll be able to have conversations with him one day. You have nothing to lose and so much to gain. My only regret is not starting sooner!
Everyday life and AAC
When did you first start exploring AAC, and what led you to Grid for iPad?
What was it like getting started?
How Grid for iPad is making a difference
How does Remy use Grid for iPad in everyday life?How has AAC impacted his confidence and communication?
Advice for other families
What advice would you give to parents starting out with AAC?
How do you see Remy’s communication evolving?
What would you say to other families considering Grid for iPad?