30 | Getting Your Child Started With AAC | Lydia McKay & Staci Dover

Parents and caregivers often feel excited when their child finally receives an AAC device. But what happens when the device arrives and your child shows little interest in using it? In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene is joined by speech-language pathologists Lydia McKay and Staci Dover to discuss the final part of a three-episode series on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). This conversation focuses on the practical side of implementation — how families can help children begin using their AAC device in meaningful ways at home. Lydia and Staci share practical strategies that help families move beyond simply having the device to actually building communication with it. They explain why routines matter, why modeling is so powerful, and why play and joy are essential for helping children develop confidence with AAC. Parents will learn how to introduce AAC in ways that feel natural rather than forced, how to reduce pressure for their child, and how to support language development through everyday interactions. If your child has an AAC device but isn't using it yet, this episode will help you understand what steps to take next. Topics Covered • Why some children don't immediately use their AAC device • The importance of routines when teaching AAC • How modeling helps children learn communication • Why play and preferred activities help build language • Understanding the "hide and show" feature for teaching vocabulary • Why AAC never prevents speech development • How parents can support AAC in everyday life • Why patience and consistency are key for communication growth Memorable Takeaway "Communication happens all day long. It doesn't happen once a week for 30 minutes with the speech therapist." About the Guests Lydia McKay and Staci Dover are Phoenix-area speech-language pathologists who specialize in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). They work through Northern Arizona University's AAC Evaluation and Training Program, helping families and individuals access communication systems that support language development and independence. About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L is the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy and host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast. His work focuses on helping neurodivergent children and families build skills, confidence, and connection through practical strategies and compassionate care.