Honoring All Voices: Embracing Every Mode of Communication
At Expansion Speech Therapy, we believe communication is more than just spoken words. Whether a child uses verbal speech, gestures, signs, facial expressions, or a communication device- every way of expressing oneself is valid, meaningful, and worth honoring.
Why It Matters
For many children with complex communication needs, speech might not be their primary or most effective way to connect with others. That doesn’t mean they aren’t communicating—it means we must listen with more than just our ears. Research has shown that honoring and supporting multiple communication modalities fosters increased participation, independence, and social connection (Beukelman & Light, 2020).
By validating every form of communication, we help:
- Reduce frustration
- Build stronger relationships
- Foster self-determination
- Empower children to express their full selves
What Counts as Communication?
Communication happens in many ways—not just with words. Some examples include:
- Verbal speech– from sounds to full sentences
- Gestures– pointing, waving, reaching
- Facial expressions– smiling, frowning, raising eyebrows
- Body movements– walking away, handing an object
- Sign language– formal or natural home signs
- Pictures and symbols– individual symbols, communication books and boards
- AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) – speech-generating devices, apps, or core boards
When a child touches their AAC device to say “help,” that deserves the same response as a verbal request. When they hand you a picture or tug your hand toward a toy… they’re communicating, and it matters.
What We Can Do
Whether you’re a therapist, parent, or educator, here’s how you can honor all forms of communication:
- Respond to all communication attempts—spoken or not
- Model language in the child’s modality (e.g., talk and use the device together)
- Avoid insisting on spoken words when another method is working
- Provide wait time for children to form and share their messages
- Celebrate each attempt to connect
When adults validate alternative communication methods, children are more likely to explore and develop more complex language (Drager, Light, & McNaughton, 2010). Consistent modeling and acknowledgment go a long way in building trust and communication skills.
All Communication is Valid
At Expansion Speech Therapy, we honor every child’s voice—spoken, signed, gestured, or tapped. Because communication isn’t about how you say something. It’s about being heard, understood, and connected.
Does your child need an AAC evaluation?
We’re here to help you explore the best communication supports for your child. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an evaluation.
References
Beukelman, D. R., & Light, J. C. (2020). Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Supporting Children and Adults with Complex Communication Needs (5th ed.). Paul H. Brookes Publishing.
Drager, K. D. R., Light, J. C., & McNaughton, D. B. (2010). Effects of AAC interventions on communication and language for young children with complex communication needs. Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, 3(4), 303–310. https://doi.org/10.3233/PRM-2010-0143
