28 | Communication, Language Development & AAC Basics | Lydia McKay & Staci Dover

In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with speech-language pathologists Lydia McKay and Staci Dover about what communication really means and how language develops. They explain how AAC can support children who are non-speaking or experiencing speech delays and why communication tools can be introduced at any time.

For many parents, one of the biggest questions they face is how to support their child’s communication when speech is delayed or developing differently.

Communication is much more than spoken words. Children communicate through gestures, facial expressions, body language, and visual tools long before they develop fluent speech.

In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene sits down with speech-language pathologists Lydia McKay and Staci Dover to explore how communication develops and how AAC can support children who are non-speaking or experiencing speech delays.

This episode is the first part of a three-part series focused on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and how families can use these tools to support meaningful communication.

Memorable Quote

“If you're breathing, you're ready for AAC.”

In This Episode We Discuss

• What communication includes beyond spoken language

• The difference between receptive and expressive communication

• How children develop language in early childhood

• Why caregiver interaction is critical for language development

• What AAC is and how it supports communication

• Common myths about communication devices

• When families should consider AAC

Key Themes From the Conversation

Communication Is More Than Speech

One of the most important ideas discussed in this episode is that communication is multimodal. People communicate through gestures, writing, texting, facial expressions, and body language in addition to spoken words.

Understanding communication in this broader way can help parents better support children who communicate differently.

How Language Develops

Language development begins early in life through interaction with caregivers. Babies learn language by hearing words, observing reactions, and participating in social exchanges.

These early interactions help build the neural connections that support language development.

Why Interaction Matters

Children learn language through meaningful interaction with the people around them. Talking, playing, reading, and responding to a child’s communication attempts all help strengthen language development.

Passive exposure, such as watching screens without interaction, does not support language learning in the same way.

AAC as a Communication Tool

AAC, or Augmentative and Alternative Communication, is simply another tool to support communication. AAC can include picture supports, communication boards, or speech-generating devices.

Rather than replacing speech, AAC supports communication and can even help some individuals develop stronger spoken language.

Common Questions Parents Ask

When should my child start using AAC?

AAC can be introduced at any stage of development. There are no prerequisites or required skills before a child can benefit from communication supports.

Will AAC stop my child from speaking?

Research shows that AAC does not prevent speech development. In many cases, AAC supports language learning and may even help increase verbal communication.

Why This Conversation Matters for Families

For families navigating speech delays or communication differences, understanding how communication works can be incredibly empowering.

AAC tools give children new ways to express themselves, participate in conversations, and build relationships with the people around them.

When families understand that communication can happen in many different ways, they can better support their child’s ability to connect with others and share their thoughts with the world.

Resources Mentioned

• Northern Arizona University AAC Evaluation & Training Program

• Arizona Speech-Language Hearing Association

About the Guest

Lydia McKay and Staci Dover are Phoenix-based speech-language pathologists specializing in AAC evaluation and training. They support children and families across home and school settings and work with Northern Arizona University's AAC program to help individuals access communication systems that support meaningful participation in everyday life.

Related Resources for Parents

If you found this episode helpful, you may also enjoy these resources:

• Sensory Processing 101: Understanding Your Child’s Sensory Needs

• Understanding Autism Meltdowns: What They Are and How to Support Your Child

• Just Diagnosed? A Guide for Arizona Parents Starting the Autism Journey

• Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy: Supporting Your Child’s Unique Strengths

Explore more parent resources at:
https://pureheartstherapy.com/blog