Giving Thanks

November is the month of giving thanks. People sometimes get caught up in everyday life and its hustle and bustle and forget about the good things that they have and experience on a daily basis…until one or more of those things are taken away from them.

People are expected to be born as typically developing, meaning that they reach developmental milestones on time and are able to do the same things that everyone else is able to do. However, the reality is that life is unpredictable and one never knows when it may change. And, when it does change, it can be a challenge to accept and adjust to the differences. This is often the case for families, parents, and caregivers to children with complex communication needs.

Families, parents, and caregivers to children with complex communication needs are sometimes resistant to their child using AAC. Resistance may be present for many possible reasons, but one of the most common reasons is that they want their child to be “normal” and have a “normal” life. It is often believed that the use of AAC hinders or prevents individuals from living a full life and reaching their highest potential. However, we know the opposite to be true.

AAC holds the power to open up the world for individuals with complex communication needs. AAC is far more than language, symbols, and technology. It is a tool to be used by those with complex communication needs (and members of their support teams) as a way to interact with the world and those around them. It is a way to show others who they are. It is a way to establish and build friendships.

At CoughDrop, we understand firsthand what it is like to not only have a family member who has complex communication needs, but we also understand what it is like to navigate the world as somebody who has complex communication needs themselves. We know the dynamics of the internal and external challenges that using AAC brings. We know that disability and communication can be personal matters.

We realize that the work we do on a daily basis reaches far beyond our computer screens and the walls of our offices. We know that our work touches, changes, and impacts the lives of many - those with complex communication needs AND those who support them alike. We work to provide you with the tools, resources, and knowledge to maximize the success of the AAC implementation process and optimize engagement and learning in all contexts and areas of life so that individuals with complex communication needs can achieve their full potential.

This month (and everyday throughout the year), we are thankful to you for the opportunity to support you on your journey to uncovering the full potential of individuals with complex communication needs. We take pride and fulfillment in providing you with quality communication solutions, training opportunities, and support to help you grow the skills of those who have complex communication needs. We are thankful to have the opportunity to impact the lives of many by amplifying voices of the voiceless so that they can help make the world a better place.

What are you thankful for?