Giving families a voice in augmentative and alternative communication decision-making

Abstract

The "voices" of families are being increasingly emphasized during team assistive technology planning processes for children with mental retardation and developmental disabilities. Professional sensitivity to family issues during such processes, particularly AAC decision-making, is integral to successful outcomes. This article describes a preliminary information-gathering activity that enabled the voices of families to be heard in regard to AAC processes. Focus groups and structured interviews were conducted with a small group of families from five states. Transcripts were analyzed, with family voices, or content, being organized around three themes: (a) How do families want professionals to build family-professional partnerships'? (b) How do families want professionals to demonstrate respect for family values and ethnicity? and (c) What can professionals do to help families learn how to use AAC devices? Results are discussed in the context of these three themes, and implications for professionals are provided.