The bridge to better communication: It’s not just about the device
When it comes to helping nonverbal children communicate, many parents feel overwhelmed by the options.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices often seem like the answer, but using them effectively is another challenge altogether.
Lenora Edwards, a seasoned speech-language pathologist, offers a refreshing perspective: AAC devices are not just tools—they’re bridges to deeper, more meaningful communication.
“AAC devices should never replace human interaction. They’re meant to enhance it, making communication more accessible and less stressful for your child.”
Welcome to ‘The Happy Sensory Corner’ – the podcast where we explore the world of sensory enrichment and environmental enrichment to treat neurological conditions.
Through insightful discussions, interviews with experienced experts in a variety of fields, from nutrition to psychology, and inspiring stories of resilience, we uncover the secrets to success in raising a child with complex needs. Discover practical strategies, sensory enrichment protocols, and evidence-based practices that can transform lives one episode at a time.
Natalie Bedard, founder of Lift OneSelf and a specialist in energy healing, shares her unique approach to mindfulness and parenting that blends nervous system awareness, emotional energy, and connection to foster profound healing and understanding.
Natalie discusses how mindfulness can be practiced in chaos, such as meditating while her children fought, and why curiosity and honesty are crucial for building trust and connection with neurodivergent children.
Together with Kim, they explore the idea of “rupture and repair” in relationships, the challenges of societal norms, and how parents can better understand and empower their children.
Episode highlights
[00:00] Natalie introduces her journey with mindfulness: From a life-threatening illness to learning transcendental meditation, Natalie shares how her experiences shaped her understanding of the nervous system and emotional energy.
[03:00] The role of the nervous system in mindfulness: Natalie explains how the nervous system stores emotions and how energy healing helps release stored trauma.
[08:15] Meditating in chaos: Natalie shares how she practiced mindfulness in her living room amid the noise of her fighting children and what she learned from observing her own judgments and reactions.
[09:37] Rethinking connection and disconnection: Natalie introduces the concept of “rupture and repair” in relationships and why constant connection isn’t realistic or healthy.
[12:30] Sensitivity and neurodivergence: Natalie and Claudie discuss how neurodivergent children often perceive emotions and energy more intensely and why they should be seen as disruptors who bring necessary change.
[24:29] Deep listening and curiosity: Natalie highlights the importance of listening to children without projecting fears or judgments and how to affirm their emotions and experiences.
[32:30] A two-minute mindfulness exercise: Natalie guides listeners through a simple breathing exercise to manage stress and connect with their bodies.
[36:34] The biology of stillness: Natalie describes the sensory awareness and vibrant high that can be achieved through moments of stillness, even without external rituals or substances.
This approach resonates with parents who may have felt frustrated or unsure about integrating technology into their child’s daily life.
Instead of seeing AACs as a last resort, Lenora encourages parents to use them as a consistent part of their routine, fostering trust and building confidence in their children.
Consistency in usage can transform how your child communicates, turning everyday moments into opportunities for connection.
Consistency is everything: How to build a routine that works
Parents often struggle with establishing a consistent routine for their children, especially when dealing with the additional challenges of communication difficulties.
But according to Lenora, consistency is the foundation of successful communication.
When a child knows what to expect, they feel secure.
This is particularly important when integrating AAC devices into daily life.
The key is to make AAC use a regular, expected part of your child’s day—not just something that happens during therapy sessions.
Routine builds trust, and this trust is what leads to breakthroughs in communication.
“Every interaction is an opportunity. Be present, model the behavior, and give your child the time they need to respond.”
Lenora’s advice here is invaluable: rather than pressuring your child to communicate, which often leads to shutdowns, it’s more effective to patiently model the behavior you wish to see.
This patience allows your child to process and respond, making communication feel more natural and less forced.
Beyond the screen: Engaging with your child
One of the biggest misconceptions about AAC devices is that they can replace traditional forms of communication.
Lenora is quick to dispel this myth.
“It’s not just about the device. It’s about how you engage.”
AAC devices are not a substitute for human interaction—they are a support system.
Using them effectively means ensuring that they enhance your child’s ability to connect with you and others, rather than becoming a barrier.
Lenora emphasizes the importance of being present during these interactions.
Every time you use an AAC device with your child, it should be an opportunity to engage, not just to instruct.
Make these moments about connection.
Ask open-ended questions, give your child time to respond, and celebrate their efforts, even if they don’t respond exactly as you’d hoped.
This approach not only reduces frustration but also encourages your child to see communication as a positive experience.
Rethinking AACs: A fresh perspective
If you’ve tried using AAC devices before and felt they weren’t the right fit, Lenora encourages you to reconsider.
When used correctly, AACs can unlock new levels of understanding between you and your child.
It’s not just about having the right tool—it’s about having the right approach.
“Even if AACs haven’t felt right in the past, they deserve another look.”
This perspective challenges the common assumption that AAC devices are only useful for children who are nonverbal.
In reality, these devices can be beneficial at various stages of speech development, offering a bridge to verbal communication while reducing the stress and frustration often associated with speech delays.
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The power of patience and presence
Lenora’s approach to using AAC devices is grounded in patience and presence.
She advises parents to slow down, give their children time to respond, and celebrate every attempt at communication, no matter how small.
This method is not only effective but also fosters a stronger bond between parent and child.
By focusing on the connection rather than the outcome, parents can create a stress-free communication environment where their child feels supported and understood.
Additional Reading
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association – AAC
- Mendability – Sensory Enrichment Therapy
- Harvard Health Publishing – The power of routines in child development