Being heard is about more than spoken words

A conversation can begin with a gesture, a typed message, a picture, a sign, or an AAC device. When we treat speech as the only way to participate, we can miss what someone is trying to tell us. At Auesomely You Cares, our belief is simple: communication is a human right. Every person deserves opportunities to express themselves and take part in their own life.

That belief shapes our work in communication access, caregiver support, education, and inclusive community experiences. It asks all of us to listen differently and to make participation possible.

What communication rights mean in everyday life

The National Joint Committee’s Communication Bill of Rights, hosted by ASHA, describes dignity, direct interaction, meaningful choices, the ability to refuse, and access to individualized communication support. It is a professional advocacy framework that helps us think about respectful communication.

In everyday terms, ask: Can this person tell us what they want? Can they disagree? Can they ask a question, make a joke, or change the subject? Communication should include personality and participation as well as basic needs.

Start by addressing the person

At a community event, greet the person first. Ask how they prefer to communicate. A caregiver or support person may help, but keep the person at the center of the conversation. If you are unsure what a message means, acknowledge it and ask for clarification instead of pretending to understand.

For example, you might say, “I want to make sure I understood. Did you mean you would like to leave, or take a break here?” Offer time and an accessible way to respond.

Make space for “no” and “something else”

A choice is meaningful when a person can decline it. If you offer two activities, leave room for neither, a different activity, or a pause. Our free AAC board includes yes, no, help, stop, and break. Add personally meaningful alternatives when adapting communication supports.

Use the person’s preferred system for these decisions. A printable can support a conversation; it does not replace a comprehensive communication system or the person’s existing vocabulary.

Turn the belief into a community habit

Before your next family gathering, school conversation, or community event, choose one change: allow more response time, make communication tools easy to reach, or ask the person what would help them participate. Afterward, reflect together on what worked and what should change.

Our goal is to grow a community where communication access is part of the plan from the beginning. Explore our programs, share these ideas with a partner, and use the free AAC board to begin a conversation about access.

PUT IT INTO PRACTICE

Download the free AAC starter boards.

A welcome page and four themed boards with colorful picture-and-word symbols.

Explore the free AAC board

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