Exploring the Advantages of Early Implementation of AAC for Children Diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome

In the state of Georgia, a young girl named Juliana is making remarkable strides in her communication journey. Juliana, who has Angelman syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects the nervous system and causes difficulties in speech, is striving to use her personal talker independently by the time she graduates.

The user, Juliana's mother, has been instrumental in helping her daughter achieve this goal. She has adapted and evolved her approach to communication with Juliana over time, adjusting to changes in school guidelines and software. This flexibility has been crucial, as continuous changes in these areas can sometimes hinder Juliana's progress.

When Juliana was younger, getting started with formal communication was a challenge due to a lack of knowledge about suitable methods. However, the user's persistence paid off, and she discovered the importance of repetition in Juliana's learning process.

For infants and toddlers under the age of 3, supportive services like the state intervention program Babies Can't Wait can provide valuable assistance. For older children, like Juliana, who are enrolled in pre-K, teachers may use picture cards, manual talkers, or simple sign language to begin communication.

The device used for Juliana's augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) was gifted by the Angelman Syndrome Foundation. The user also practices communication with Juliana on an iPad at home, in addition to what she uses at school, emphasising the importance of practice for efficient use of AAC.

Practice is indeed essential, as it has helped counter the effects of continuous changes in school. The user believes that continuing Juliana's practice and device use at home has been crucial in maintaining her progress.

For children with Angelman syndrome, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to learning communication. Other organisations also provide tablets as AAC devices, such as Apraxia Kids, which is accepting applications for its Tablets for Apraxia program through Nov. 6 as part of AAC Awareness Month.

The user is grateful for the support and flexibility in approaches offered by these organisations, which have been instrumental in Juliana's journey towards independent communication. Despite the challenges, Juliana's story serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the incredible potential of children with Angelman syndrome to overcome communication barriers and thrive.

Exploring the Advantages of Early Implementation of AAC for Children Diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome