Meet William
For William and his family, daily life is a balance of structure, flexibility, and continuous communication support. William, who is autistic, thrives in a routine that provides security while also allowing room for spontaneity based on his needs. AAC has become an essential part of his everyday life – helping him express emotions, make requests, and engage with the world around him. With Grid for iPad always accessible, he has a reliable way to communicate at home, school, and in the community, making a profound impact on his confidence and independence. William’s AAC journey began when he was three years old. Recognising his ability to understand symbols and use PECS successfully, his parents knew AAC could be a valuable tool for him. However, they faced resistance from professionals – his nursery and NHS speech and language therapist didn’t support the use of an AAC device, making it difficult to introduce it consistently. At four years old, they turned to a private speech and language therapist who helped get AAC included in William’s EHCP, ensuring he had the support he needed across different settings. That’s when they discovered Grid for iPad, software that offered a structured yet flexible approach to communication, allowing William to access a robust vocabulary that could grow with him. Using Super Core on Grid for iPad has been life-changing for William. It provides a clear, structured vocabulary that helps him express his needs, wants, and feelings in a way that others can easily understand. Since using AAC, one of the biggest changes has been his confidence; knowing he has a reliable way to communicate has significantly reduced frustration and given him more autonomy in daily life. Grid for iPad has also helped William take an active role in decision-making, especially when out and about. One of his favourite things to talk about is his love for trains and he often uses his device to ask to visit the local park to watch them. He also loves bubbles and frequently requests bubble-blowing sessions. Having a way to express these preferences has made outings more enjoyable and engaging for him. Williams uses Grid for iPad in a variety of ways throughout his day: One of the most valuable tools for William and his family is the Weekly Timetable feature in Grid for iPad. Having a clear visual schedule helps him understand what’s happening each day, making transitions smoother and reducing anxiety about the unknown. For parents starting out with AAC, William’s family encourages taking it one step at a time and celebrating every little win. Model language as much as possible by using the device alongside your child in everyday situations, so they see it as a natural way to communicate. Progress may feel slow at first, but consistency and patience are key. Most importantly, trust in your child’s ability to learn and explore AAC in their own way, it truly is life-changing. Looking ahead, William’s parents are excited to see how his communication continues to evolve. They believe he will become even more independent in expressing his thoughts and emotions and that AAC will help him build deeper connections with others. Their biggest piece of advice? Don’t wait. “If you’re considering AAC, take the leap and explore Grid for iPad on your own. We were told William wouldn’t meet the criteria for funding, but he has shown time and time again how capable he is. AAC has truly empowered him to communicate, and it has made a world of difference. If you’re thinking about it, I say go for it. You might be surprised at what your child is capable of when given the right tools!” In celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, we are currently offering 50% off Grid for iPad between 1-11 April 2025. We’re on a mission to help as many people as possible succeed with AAC and hope this discounted price will make Grid for iPad accessible to more families, individuals and schools. We recognise that autistic people have a preference for different terminology to describe themselves and autism. We have used a variety of terms, yet acknowledge that the language used may not reflect everyone’s views or own identity. As always, we are committed to representing our users’ preferences, and welcome feedback.
Discovering AAC and finding the right fit
How Grid for iPad supports William’s communication
Grid for iPad in everyday life
Reflections and advice for other families
