Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices are essential tools that empower students with communication challenges to express their thoughts, needs, and emotions. However, in educational settings, there are instances where these devices are removed from a student’s proximity to encourage focus on specific tasks. While the intention may be to minimize distractions, this practice can inadvertently silence the student’s voice and undermine their autonomy.

The Importance of Continuous Access to AAC Devices

Removing an AAC device is taking away a student’s means of communication. It’s crucial to recognize that behaviors often serve as a form of communication, especially when students lack other means to express themselves. Research indicates that a significant portion of behaviors are related to communication needs. For instance, nonverbal cues and behaviors can constitute up to 80% of our communication. Therefore, when a student exhibits certain behaviors, it may be their way of conveying discomfort, confusion, or a desire to engage differently.

Balancing Task Focus and Communication Needs

It’s understandable that educators aim to keep students engaged and minimize distractions. However, instead of removing the AAC device, consider strategies that balance task focus with communication accessibility:

• ‍Positioning: Place the AAC device slightly to the side, making educational materials more prominent while ensuring the device remains within easy reach.‍
• Structured Breaks: Incorporate scheduled times when the student can freely explore their AAC device, reducing the urge to use it inappropriately during instructional periods.‍
• Engaging Content: Design lessons that integrate the AAC device, allowing students to use it as a tool for learning rather than a distraction.
  

Respecting Autonomy and Understanding Behavior

Every student has the right to autonomy, including the ability to communicate preferences, refusals, and choices. If a student engages with their AAC device to avoid an interaction or activity, it’s essential to respect that that behavior is in itself communicative, regardless of what they are doing in the device. Their actions tell you that you need to modify something about the activity to make it engaging, or simply acceptable for the student. Removing the device in such instances shifts the focus from understanding and addressing the student’s needs to enforcing compliance, which can be deeply detrimental to their development and trust.

Encouraging Positive Practices

For educators and parents, it’s important to reflect on the reasons behind a student’s behavior and consider whether it’s a form of communication. By maintaining consistent access to AAC devices and interpreting behaviors through a communicative lens, we can foster an environment that values expression over mere compliance.

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In conclusion, while managing classroom dynamics is challenging, ensuring that students always have access to their AAC devices is fundamental. By doing so, we honor their right to communicate, support their autonomy, and create a more inclusive and understanding educational experience.