First, let’s get a few things straight…
Myth: There are pre-requisites for high-tech AAC
Communication is a human right! There are NO pre-requisites for high tech AAC systems. This means ANY child who cannot meet their daily communication needs due to language delays or disorders is a candidate for AAC. We do not limit access to AAC based on cognitive status, physical ability, or previous exposure to low tech AAC including PECS. Every child deserves access to a high tech, robust communication system-don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
For more information about AAC, check out the AAC page above!
Myth: Only children with significant disabilities need pediatric occupational therapy.
OT can benefit children with a wide range of developmental delays, including mild issues with fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-care routines, or social participation.
Myth: People with autism have an intellectual disability & can’t speak
The truth is that some people with autism do also have an accompanying intellectual disability and some people don’t. Remember: autism is NOT an intellectual disability. Some autistic people can speak and communicate verbally, others can’t. Some autistic people have higher IQs than other people and some have IQ levels within the average range. Not only is there a complete range in all of these areas, even those autistic individuals with late developing speech all develop at different rates and to different levels. There is a wide, wide range of skills, abilities, and communication levels among people on the autism spectrum.
Myth: Autism is a disease
Autism is a neuro-developmental difference that can affect the way a person perceives the world, communicates, and interacts with others.
Myth: If my young child is showing possible signs of a delay, it’s best to “wait and see”
This kind of mind set often leads to children falling even further behind and requiring additional therapy to get them back on track. Parents should seek a referral to a specialist at the first sign of a delay. Early intervention is critical and almost always reduces the amount of therapy needed during school-age years.