Presume Potential: Believing in Your Child’s Ability to Communicate

By Allison Schmidt -Link therapies

Speech-Language Pathologist

At Link Therapies, we believe every child has something important to say—whether they are speaking verbally or using AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication). One of the most powerful tools we can use as parents, caregivers, and professionals is the mindset of presuming potential.

What Does Presuming Potential Mean?

Presuming potential means that you believe your child is capable of learning, understanding, and communicating. Even if your child isn’t using spoken language, it doesn’t mean they have nothing to say. Every child deserves access to communication tools that help them express their thoughts, feelings, and needs. AAC systems, including communication devices, visuals, and gestures, are essential supports to help unlock that potential.

Why It Matters

When we believe in a child’s ability, we:

• Emphasize growth instead of limitations

• Set high—but achievable—expectations

• Offer more opportunities for the child to express themselves

When we assume a child can’t, we risk limiting their development, independence, and connection with others.

Tips for Presuming Potential at Home

Here are three powerful ways you can start presuming potential today at home:

1. Talk to Your Child Assuming They Understand

Use rich, meaningful language just as you would with a verbally speaking child. This helps build vocabulary and communication skills, regardless of their current expressive level.

Learn more about our speech therapy services and how we support receptive language development.

2. Celebrate Any and All Communication Attempts

Whether it's a word, a glance, a gesture, or using their AAC system—it all counts! Respond with excitement and acknowledgment to reinforce their efforts.

Visit our AAC support page to learn how we help families implement and celebrate AAC use.

3. Believe in Progress—Even If You Don’t See It Yet

Communication growth takes time. Keep modeling language, talking with your child, and staying consistent. Trust that they are learning and absorbing everything around them.

Explore our parent coaching programs for guidance and encouragement along the way.

Let’s Empower Communication Together

At Link Therapies, we’re passionate about building confident communicators—no matter where they start. If you’re looking for personalized speech therapy or AAC support in the Bay Area, we’re here to help.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward empowered communication.

Give It Time: Letting Your Child Explore Their AAC Device

By Allison Schmidt -Link therapies

Speech-Language Pathologist

Give It Time: Supporting Your Child as They Learn to Use Their AAC Device

When introducing an AAC device (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) to your child, one of the most important things you can do is give it time. Learning to use AAC is just like learning a new language—not only for your child but also for you as their communication partner.

Just like babies need to hear and see language before they begin to speak, AAC users need time to:

• Explore their AAC system

• Hear and see words modeled consistently

• Start making connections between symbols and meaning

• Make mistakes and learn from them

What AAC Learning Might Look Like

At first, it might seem like your child is simply tapping around or “playing” with their AAC device. But this seemingly random activity is crucial. It helps your child:

• Discover how the system works

• Learn the location of key vocabulary

• Practice the motor skills needed for accurate selection

• Understand that the device is a tool for communication

How to Help at Home with AAC

You play a vital role in your child’s success with AAC. Here are three parent-friendly tips for encouraging communication through exploration:

1. Be Present and Talk With Them

Sit beside your child while they use their AAC system. Talk about what they’re trying to say and show them you value their attempts. As a parent, you are a powerful communication model.

2. Allow for Mistakes

Don’t worry about correcting every button press. Exploration is how kids learn. Just like with spoken language, children need room to make mistakes before they can use AAC intentionally and fluently.

3. Celebrate All Attempts

Whether your child selects a single word or presses a whole sentence, celebrate it! Every communication attempt matters. Just like we cheer on a baby who babbles for the first time, we need to encourage early AAC use with enthusiasm and positivity.

Final Thoughts

Your child’s journey with AAC will take time—and that’s okay. By being supportive, patient, and engaged, you help build their confidence and communication skills every step of the way.

If you’re looking for more resources on AAC for kids or need guidance on how to support your child’s language development, we’re here to help. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our speech-language pathologists!