The next step to communication

Communication is so critical for our kiddos. It's how the entire world works! And with Brayden, it is the bain of my existence because I hate the fact I cannot communicate with him like any other child. In order for anyone else to really understand him, I would have to write an entire book of his favorite things, what this means, what that means, etc. I learned that "die die die" actually means "tired" (oops!) and that he needs a break, not that he wants to off his mother. So we have officially started the process of getting an AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) device for Brayden. His speech follows that of a Gestalt learner, where it's a lot of scripting, telling stories, etc., and a lot of echolalia. We are hoping with the AAC we can communicate more easily and determine his actual want. He does fairly well now with pointing, some words/phrases, some sign, etc., and is very good with receptive language, but struggles greatly with expressive language (so he understands everything but can't express himself back). This sometimes leads to break downs, melt downs, throwing, hitting, and other behaviors and I honestly don't blame him. Through our SLP, we were connected with Talk to Me Technologies and will hopefully be trialing a Wego 8 with Touch Chat Word Pro. Below is an example of what it will look like. It comes with an amplifier on the back which we won't use unless we're in a crowded room, or something where hearing is more difficult for him. School starts in 17 days and this mama is sooooo nervous and anxious on how he is going to do.

If you're looking for any great resources for Gestalt, I found bohospeechie on Instagram who has some great ideas for Gestalt learners.

For Bennett, we struggle with auditory processing. I am hoping to get him something as a visual learner for tasks, goals, etc. The author of Forever Boy, Kate Swenson, had utilized Goally for her son who struggles with task management and I feel Bennett would really benefit from this. See the example video below! I am hoping with using a visual schedule and routine with tasks and challenges but also with rewards, he will comprehend more as well. I'm also looking into the Reading.com app for phonic teaching and help with reading. So any feedback anyone has, the better! Our kids are so technology driven that while I hate the fact they rely on it so much, it's also necessary for them to communicate.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=644rpcdqJrA

Do any of your families utilize any of the above devices? Do they work??? Please comment!!