Key Takeaways

• They don’t need to learn every word. The large vocabulary gives your loved one words for today and the future. Start small and grow with them.
• Learning takes time. Don’t rush it. With practice, repetition, and support their vocabulary will grow. Even small moments show progress.
• You’re not on your own. Your speech therapist, AbleNet’s support teams, and the Support Hub are all here to help.

Welcome To Your Speech App

When families first open a speech app, many are surprised by how many words it has. It can feel overwhelming, and it’s natural to wonder: is my loved one supposed to learn all of these? The short answer is no.

Speech apps come with a large vocabulary from day one, but they can be set up to match where your loved one is today. Your speech therapist may suggest ideas like:

• Focusing on the words and pages that matter most right now
• Hiding some buttons for now
• Changing how many buttons show on each page

Help Is Always Available

You don’t have to figure this out by yourself.

• Your speech therapist can guide you on what to focus on.
• The Support Hub has guides for your specific speech app, including answers to common questions about editing and customizing it.
• AbleNet’s SLP Empowerment Team can help if your speech therapist isn’t available.

Together, these can help you feel more confident supporting communication at home and in everyday life.

Why So Many Words?

When someone starts using a speech app, it’s important for them to have access to lots of language. They may not need every word today, but having those words ready will give them the language they’ll need tomorrow, next year, and beyond.

Think of it like a library. You don’t read every book at once. The value is that you’ll have the right book when you need it.

Every Journey Looks Different

You may wonder when your loved one will start using the app more on their own. Like any new skill, it takes time, practice, and support.

Some children start using their device quikcly. Others need more time to explore, practice, and build confidence. Both are okay.

Progress often starts small:

• A glance toward the device
• A tap on the screen
• A favorite word used at just the right moment
• A new way to connect with someone they love.

These moments matter. They’re signs of learning, and they often lead to bigger breakthroughs.

Let the Conversation Begin!

With time, consistency, and support, communication can grow in ways that may not seem possible today. Your loved one has something to say, and every try, every interaction, and every small step helps them get there.