AAC Access All Areas

Ali Battye and Ruth Jones

Hosted by Ali Battye and Ruth Jones, this podcast dives into everything neurodiversity‑affirming and AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication). Each episode explores real questions about what AAC is, how to get it, how to use it, and how to embed inclusive communication in everyday life. We share practical knowledge, lived experience, and professional insight to support AAC users, families, educators, therapists, and support teams across education, health, and social care. Expect clear explanations, honest conversations, and neurodivergent‑affirming perspectives that help you build confidence and competence with AAC. Whether you’re new to AAC or deeply experienced, this podcast opens the door to accessible, inclusive communication for everyone. Got a question? Send it in — we’ll dedicate an episode to answering it.

  1. 23 Jul

    How to manage AAC overwhelm?

    In this episode, Ali and Ruth explore practical strategies for supporting adults involved in AAC communication, addressing feelings of overwhelm and emphasizing the importance of flexibility, connection, and personal pacing. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or therapist, discover how to create sustainable AAC practices that honour each individual's unique journey. The complex roles of family, educators, and therapists in AAC supportRecognising and respecting individual differences in AAC familiarity and expectationsStarting points for AAC implementation: focusing on interests and engagementThe importance of "model without expectation" and mindfulness of building trustAcknowledging multimodal communication alongside AACThe significance of community networks and shared experiencesIncorporating embodied caregiver experience into AAC discourseEmbracing natural rhythms and respecting moments when AAC may not be welcomedManaging your own regulation and recognizing "affective resistance" as positivePractical tools: weekly mini-goals, tailored vocabularies, and environmental integration Find us on Instagram: @ruth_jones_slt @ali_battye_speech or on TikTok @AAC_access_all_areas Article: Affective Resistance in Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Gombar & Bach (2025)

  2. 2 Jul

    What if engagement isn't as we expect?

    Summary In this episode, Ruth Jones and Ali Battye explore the complexities of AAC engagement, emphasizing patience, understanding fluctuating capacities, and honouring individual communication rhythms. They share practical insights and personal stories to support effective AAC use. Key Topics The importance of patience in AAC implementationFluctuating capacities and sensory challenges for autistic AAC usersThe role of exploration and play in AAC learningRespecting individual communication rhythmsPractical strategies for supporting AAC users "Follow the joy and connect through what lights them up." "AAC use can shift from exploration to meaningful communication." Find us on Instagram: @ali_battye_speech @ruth_jones_slt

  3. 18 Jun

    What does early AAC engagement look like?

    Most children start exploring AAC systems in unexpected ways—and the early moments of engagement can be profoundly simple yet incredibly powerful. Discover how a child's spontaneous interaction with an iPad or communication book can reveal their natural inclination to communicate, even before they use words. If you’re supporting children with complex communication needs, you’ll want to hear what happens when the focus shifts from functional language to playful, joyful interaction—and how that sets the stage for meaningful communication down the line. In this episode, Ali & Ruth share real-life stories that showcase what early AAC engagement really looks like—and bust common misconceptions along the way. You’ll discover concrete strategies for fostering initial interest, like modeling subtly and avoiding pressure, so children feel ownership rather than obligation. We break down the subtle signs of early ownership—like batting away an AAC device or glancing over—instead of expecting instant speech.Key topics covered include: The dream scenario of instant curiosity sparked by a fun, interesting pageHow modelling “little and often” builds engagement without overwhelmingWhy exploring favourite characters like Peppa Pig can unlock broader languageThe importance of respecting individual differences and processing needsPractical tips for using communication books versus devices in early engagementYou’ll learn why patience, attunement, and a playful approach create a foundation for both children and adults to build confidence. Avoid overwhelm and set realistic expectations, knowing that language development is a marathon—not a sprint. This episode is perfect for speech therapists, educators, parents, and anyone committed to unlocking every child's potential to connect. Whether you're troubleshooting early AAC success stories or looking for ways to make engagement irresistible, this conversation will renew your perspective on what’s possible—and remind you that the most meaningful moments often happen when we least expect them. Remember: early engagement isn’t just about immediate speech—it's about planting seeds of joy, ownership, and curiosity that will grow into lifelong communication skills. Get inspired to see the magic in those first tentative interactions—because sometimes, a simple glance or a giggle is the beginning of something extraordinary. Find us on Instagram @ali_battye_speech @ruth_jones_slt

  4. 14 May

    What are the reasons for communication?

    This episode explores the diverse reasons for communication beyond requesting, emphasizing the importance of connection, joy, and meaningful interaction in AAC and speech therapy. Ruth and Ali discuss models, misconceptions, and real-life examples to deepen understanding and practice. The means, reasons and opportunities model of communication - Resource Library - Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust Find us on Instagram: @ali_battye_speech @ruth_jones_slt

  5. 23 Apr

    How do I set up AAC for a Gestalt Processor?

    This episode explores Gestalt language processing in children, how it influences AAC setup, and practical strategies for supporting language development. Hosted by Ali Battye and Ruth Jones, it offers insights into tailoring AAC systems to meet the unique needs of Gestalt language processors. Find us on Instagram: Ali - @ali_battye_speech Ruth - @ruth_jones_slt

  6. 26 Mar

    What language should I add to an AAC tool?

    This episode explores the essential aspects of AAC language, including robust vocabulary, core and fringe words, and effective communication strategies. Hosts Ruth and Ali discuss how to optimize AAC systems for speed, personalization, and meaningful interaction, emphasizing the importance of tuning into individual needs and preferences. Key topics: Robust vocabulary and its importanceCore words and their universal role in AACFringe words and personalizationStrategies for efficient AAC communicationThe role of phrase-based language and shortcutsObserving and tuning into individual communication needs Ruth's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruth_jones_slt/ Ali's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ali_battye_speech/

  7. 12 Mar

    I've Got the Device and App - What Now?

    Summary This episode explores the practical aspects of choosing, setting up, and personalizing AAC apps like Proloquo and TD Snap. Ruth and Ali discuss how to optimize vocabulary, app settings, and voice options to support meaningful communication for children with AAC needs. Key Topics Differences between Proloquo and Proloquo2Go Grid size and vocabulary customization Using crescendo to gradually increase complexity Symbol vs photograph for personalization Voice selection and customization in AAC apps Importance of respecting app design and structure Personalizing vocabulary based on child's interests Monitoring and adjusting app settings over time

  8. 26 Feb

    Where can I get an AAC device?

    In this episode, Ruth and Ali discuss the various avenues for obtaining AAC devices, particularly for families who may not qualify for specialized services. They explore the importance of accessibility, the practical setup of AAC devices, and the role of communication in supporting AAC users. The conversation highlights the significance of protective measures for devices, funding options, and the supportive roles of educators and families in fostering effective communication for AAC users. Takeaways Many families struggle to access AAC services due to eligibility issues.Standard tablets can be used for AAC by those without complex needs.Purchasing devices and apps directly is a common route for families.iPads are often recommended due to their robust app ecosystem.Insurance and protective cases are essential for AAC devices.Refurbished devices can be a cost-effective option for families.Grants and charities can help fund AAC devices for those in need.Schools can play a crucial role in supporting AAC users.Communication needs should be honored and supported in educational settings.Building connections is key to effective communication for AAC users. Ruth's Instagram: ruth_jones_slt Ali's Instagram: ali_battye_speech

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About

Hosted by Ali Battye and Ruth Jones, this podcast dives into everything neurodiversity‑affirming and AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication). Each episode explores real questions about what AAC is, how to get it, how to use it, and how to embed inclusive communication in everyday life. We share practical knowledge, lived experience, and professional insight to support AAC users, families, educators, therapists, and support teams across education, health, and social care. Expect clear explanations, honest conversations, and neurodivergent‑affirming perspectives that help you build confidence and competence with AAC. Whether you’re new to AAC or deeply experienced, this podcast opens the door to accessible, inclusive communication for everyone. Got a question? Send it in — we’ll dedicate an episode to answering it.

Information

  • Creator
    Ali Battye and Ruth Jones
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Ali Battye and Ruth Jones
  • Show Website
    AAC Access All Areas