Thread by @QueerlyAutistic

I think it's important that non-speaking methods of communication are not seen as a 'last resort' after all attempts at speech are exhausted. We should be trying to find ways for people to communicate, not fighting for speech at all costs.

https://twitter.com/awesomebrandi/status/1330547924514779137

That's not saying don't try speech therapy, but also try different methods of AAC at the same time. See which works. I can't imagine the pressure that intense speech therapy could put on a child, especially when AAC is available and could be world changing for them.

If there are methods of communication that a child may connect with, gel with, be able to use happily without stress, then I am unsure whether it's ethical, kind or moral to continue with intensive speech therapy programmes under the notion that spoken communication is superior.

Open all doors of potential when it comes to communication. And find what works for your kid - not what fits your (and the medical profession's) ideal.

Letting your child use the AAC that works for them is not giving up, and it's definitely NOT letting them be lazy.

It's the same mentality that pressures parents not to let their D/deaf kids learn sign because then they'll 'settle' with sign and not try hard enough to be verbal and lip read. It's oralism, pure and simple - it creates a communication hierarchy that deprives people of language.

Medical professionals - stop telling parents that speech must be chased at all costs, stop indoctrinating parents against doing what's best for theit kids.

Parents - please tap into your kids needs and give them a choice of communication options beyond speech.