How to Personalize Your AAC Device for the Holidays: 5 Simple Tips

41% of U.S. adults say their stress levels increase between November and January because of the holiday season (American Psychological Association, 2023).

For people with aphasia, apraxia of speech, dysarthria, or similar diagnoses, difficulty communicating is also known to cause stress and anxiety (ASHA, 2024).

So, when you combine the two – it’s almost too easy to feel like your stress levels are nearing full-blown Grinch mode by the time November arrives…

…but it doesn’t have to feel that way!

Augmentative and alternative communication (or simply, “AAC”) devices can help.

AAC can decrease feelings of frustration and isolation for adults and children with communication challenges – especially around the holidays.

Keep reading to explore 5 unique ways you can personalize an AAC device to improve communication this holiday season.

Prepare Your AAC Device For Travel

If you’re one of the millions of Americans who travel for the holidays, you’ll want your AAC device ready to help you communicate – whether you’re going by plane, train, or automobile!

Consider adding extra messages that address logistics, comfort, safety, and help you interact with your fellow travelers or staff:

• What time do we arrive at ___?
• Where is the [bathroom/gate/station/nearest restaurant]?
• Can you help me with [finding my seat, my bags, boarding]?
• I need a break at [the next stop, a rest area, soon].
• Has [Flight #, Train #] changed or been delayed?

Get Your AAC Device Ready For Holiday Gatherings And Traditions

No matter what holidays you’re celebrating, you’ll want your AAC device to be ready with phrases tailored to your unique traditions.

Think about adding messages that let you share gratitude and reflect, comment on decorations, make holiday-related requests, and join in the conversation with your loved ones:

• This year, I am thankful for ___.
• The [tree, lights, table, menorah, etc.] look so beautiful!
• Can I help with [setting the table, making cookies, decorating]?
• Who’s turn is it to open a gift?
• I can’t wait to eat ___!
• Alexa, play [holiday music].

Check out the video example below, which was inspired by a woman with aphasia who’s thrilled to return to hosting host her family’s Thanksgiving celebration again this year:

Program Your AAC Device To Share Stories And Life Updates

“So, what have you been up to…?”

This conversation starter always pops up when you gather with friends and family, and being able to share your unique stories is the key to connection.

In fact, it’s so important that we suggest preparing your AAC device in advance:

• Start by taking photos and videos with the Media app (you can do this year round!)
• Categorize those photos and videos into folders (for example, “Kyle’s 13th Birthday” or “Museum Trip”)
• Include descriptive messages or voice recordings to help tell your story

We love this example inspired by a Lingraphica AAC user who recently enjoyed an Alaskan cruise:

Share Your Feelings With AAC

It’s always important to be able to share your feelings – and the holidays are no different!

However, holidays can bring a wide range of emotions you might not experience in everyday life: from frustration while stuck in traffic to deep gratitude for your time spent with loved ones.

Consider adding phrases that allow you to express how you feel – whether your emotions are positive or negative:

• I am so excited about ___!
• I am so happy to be spending time with you.
• I need a break.
• I miss ___.
• I feel left out.
• I am proud.

We also love the idea of sharing needs that go along with your emotions. For example, here’s a page inspired by a 12-year-old who needed to share his calming strategies during moments of overstimulation:

Include Safety Basics On Your AAC Device

No one wants to experience an emergency over the holidays. But, it’s always best to be prepared in case one does happen – and that means making sure your AAC device has all the necessary information for emergency responders.

Include these basics on your AAC device:

• My name is ___.
• My address is ___.
• My birthday is ___.
• Call my emergency contact, [Name], at [phone number].
• I am allergic to [list any food, medication, or environmental allergies].
• I have [list diagnoses: aphasia, cerebral palsy, diabetes, etc.].
• I take [medication name] for [condition].

Here’s an example of what this might look like:

Use Your Personalized AAC Device To Enjoy The Holidays

Consider this article your guide to personalizing your AAC device this holiday season!

Use the ideas and prompts above to inspire you – with a little customization, your AAC device can help you create a holiday season full of connection and joy.

No matter where you are on your AAC journey – we’re here to support you!