#158 AAC Shouldn't Have to Be Earned

In this episode, we're talking about the powerful connection between AAC and dysregulation—and why regulation is access to communication.

So often, AAC is treated as a skill kids are expected to use only when they're calm and regulated. But when a child is dysregulated, overwhelmed, or in survival mode, accessing any form of communication—spoken or AAC—is incredibly hard.

This episode reframes AAC as an access tool, not a reward, and explores what it really means to support communication during hard moments.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why AAC use often breaks down during dysregulation

• How the nervous system impacts access to communication

• Why "calm first, communication later" is a harmful myth

• How AAC can support regulation, not wait for it

• What happens when AAC is removed during meltdowns

• Why consistent AAC access builds trust and reduces frustration

• How to model AAC during dysregulation without pressure or expectation

• Simple shifts that make AAC more accessible across the day
  
  

Key takeaways:

• Dysregulation limits access to communication for all children

• AAC should be available during hard moments—not withheld

• Communication supports regulation; it's not something kids earn

• Modeling AAC without expectation builds trust and long-term access
  
  

Try this today:

• Keep AAC available during moments of dysregulation, even if it's not used

• Model one regulation-related word (like help, stop, or all done) without expecting a response

• Notice engagement and trust before output—communication grows from safety

Want support making AAC truly accessible?

If AAC has only been used during calm or structured moments, you're not alone. My AAC visuals and AAC Bootcamp are designed to help educators and caregivers confidently model AAC throughout the entire day—including transitions, play, and moments of dysregulation.

AAC doesn't require perfection.
It requires access.

Links & Related Podcast Episodes (Lindsay, can you add related podcasts?)

• AAC Bootcamp Registration

• AAC & Protests

• Getting Started With AAC

• Child Interest Survey - find what lights a child up!