Every Child Deserves a Voice

Funded Feb 23, 2022

In the last few weeks, my student communication skills have taken off. One of our device options on the new iPad is a speech generating device. The larger buttons and stylus allow some of my students with hand strength or coordination issues easier access to the speech generating device. One such middle schooler used the device independently to create a sentence to let us know we forgot his reinforcer! He used the device and walked over to the teacher and "said" "Mrs. (teacher name) need skittles. You forget" (oops!!) There was much celebrating and EXTRA skittles!!

A preschool student has gone from crying to making functional activity choices during centers and asking for help with a smile on her face when she needs it. Just this am, I had the toy farm ready to go for her. She walked into my room and used the device to say, "I want Dollhouse". Well, I don't have to tell you how quickly she was handed that dollhouse!!! This is just this week!! There are so many more stories I could tell you.

I wish I could invite you all to my schools to see firsthand how your generosity is making a difference for my students. It is a gift to be a part of their journey toward independence. Thank you so much for your support!!!”

With gratitude,

Mrs. Susan's Speech Room