Conversations with Parent
Parent says, "I saw on tiktok how these kids need to be older for these kinds of devices."
Myth: there is a certian age a child must reach to be considered for AAC.
Myth: there is a hierachy of AAC use.
Your boss (school admin) says that AAC is a medical device and not necessary for school.
Additudinal Barrier.
IDEA expressly does not agree. More on this in AAC in the schools.
The parent says that their child doesn't need AAC because they know everything their child needs.
Opportunity barrier
SLP begins an AAC evaluation by determining the level of icon or image that the child should use.
Myth: there is a hierachy of icons from drawn to script. Opportunity Barrier: Facilitator skill.
Teacher says that the AAC device is distracting in the classroom so she keeps it on her desk
Opportunity barrer.
Parent expresses that they don't think their child is ready for AAC.
Myth that there is a readiness criteria. Opportunity barriers galore.
In a meeting, an SLP says "I don't have any kids on my caseload who are high enough to use AAC."
Myth: kids have to be at a certain cogntive level to get AAC.
Admin questions the need for an AAC evaluation because she feels not enough time has been spent in traditional therapy.
Myth: AAC should be seen as a last resort.
Parents become so upset at the mention of AAC that they go to your supervisor and request to change therapists.
Additudinal barrier.
SLP says "I haven't tried AAC with him yet because he is not yet making eye contact."
Myth: Children must have a certain set of skills to benefit from AAC.
Practice barrier. Potential attitudual barrier.
The parent says that they are afraid that thier child will use AAC as a "crutch."
Myth: AAC will prevent speech development.
Admin says "We give everyone here xyz app."
Policy barrier (but likely Practice barrier)