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Speech Device.


 Speech Device. 


A huge misconception about speech devices is that they discourage children from using their verbal language. 


This could not be further from the truth. 


Keeping a communication tool away from a non speaking child is not a way to get them to speak. 


Harper and Dallas both started with PECS. A picture exchange system to express their wants and needs! 

As a mom of 2 non speaking children getting them to use PECS as a means of communication was a life changer for us. 

Now Harper has her speech device. Dallas’s is in process and will hopefully be here soon. 


Since getting Harpers device that has verbal output when she presses a button to make a request. 

She is able to answer so many question and let us know what her wants and needs are. 

She is also repeating the words after she hears her device say them. 


Harper can answer me with her device when is ask,

What’s your name?

How old are you?

When’s your birthday?

What do you want to eat?

Is something hurting?

What different shapes and colors are. 


All of these things she can tell me and she couldn’t before getting her device. 


A speech device is necessary for non speaking children. It’s a blessing and a gift to be able to see a small glimpse into Harper’s beautiful thoughts💜 

We can’t wait for Dallas to get his as well. 


So please don’t think because a child has a device they will never speak. This is the furthest thing from the truth. A speaking device can actually help grow their verbal communication. 


But the most important thing to remember is verbal speech is not the only acceptable way to communicate! 

In our house we use pecs, speech device, sign language, scripting, echolalia, and physical cues to comunicate. 

And honestly some of my favorite moments that I will cherish forever with my family is when words were never spoken. 

🤟🏼-meaning “I love you” 💜


This post was written by Shelby Shivener from Autism On The Farm. 

#autismonthefarm #autism #speechdevice #autismmom

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