The first part of the move is done, and you’re in your new home, but if you’ve ever gone through a Permanent Change of Station (PCS), you know that the next stage isn’t just about unpacking boxes. It’s learning a new neighborhood, finding new doctors and therapists, meeting new teachers, and figuring out a whole new routine. It can feel like you’re starting over.

The good news? Your child’s communication doesn’t have to start over, too.

Tips for Exploring Your New Home🔗

These tips will help you get started in your new adventure as you unpack, meet your neighbors, and get settled into a new rhythm.

Keep the Routines Your Child Already Knows🔗

When everything else feels different, familiar routines can be comforting. Keep using the QuickTalker during the little moments you’ve always shared: getting ready in the morning, meals, playtime, bath time, or bedtime. Those everyday routines help your child know what to expect and remind them that their voice is still an important part of the day.

Introduce Your Child Before Introducing the Device🔗

When you meet a new therapist, teacher, or provider, start by telling them about your child, not just their AAC system.

• What makes them laugh?
• What are they obsessed with right now?
• What gets them excited to communicate?
• What strategies have worked really well?

Helping people get to know your child first builds a stronger connection and reminds everyone that the QuickTalker is simply one of the many ways they communicate.

Add Vocab for Your New Adventure🔗

One of the fun parts of settling into a new home is exploring! As your family discovers new favorite places, don’t forget to update your child’s vocabulary, too.

You might add:

• The name of your new neighborhood
• Favorite parks or playgrounds
• Restaurants you visit often
• New friends and teachers
• Local landmarks your family talks about

The more your child’s QuickTalker Freestyle reflects their everyday life, the easier it is for them to join the conversation.

Give Yourselves Some Grace🔗

Moves are a big adjustment for everyone. Some days your child may use their device more than others, and that’s okay. Their communication skills haven’t disappeared; they’re just learning how to use them in a brand-new environment. As new routines become familiar, confidence often follows.

Mission Ready Tip🔗

You don’t have to rebuild everything at once. Keeping just one communication routine the same, whether it’s chatting during breakfast or choosing a bedtime story, can help make a new place start to feel like home.