In our recent video, Karina Saechao, M.A., CCC-SLP, shares her expertise on the intersection of language, culture, and AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication). Drawing from her experience, Karina provides invaluable insights on how to support Black children using AAC devices while respecting their cultural and linguistic identity. Below are the top five takeaways from her interview, highlighting important lessons for students in the field of Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD). Watch the full video below:

The Role of Cultural Identity in AAC Communication

Karina emphasizes that language is intrinsically tied to cultural identity. For children in the Black community, this connection plays a crucial role in their communication and should be reflected in AAC systems. Recognizing the cultural significance of language means understanding that AAC is not just a tool for communication but a means of preserving and expressing one’s heritage. When working with Black children, it’s essential for SLPs to consider how cultural norms and values shape their communication styles and preferences.

Choosing Culturally Relevant AAC Tools

Selecting AAC tools that are culturally relevant is vital in creating an inclusive communication environment. Karina highlights the importance of understanding the child’s cultural background when choosing AAC devices, including language preferences, family dynamics, and community context. Whether it’s using culturally appropriate symbols, phrases, or words, the goal is to ensure that the AAC system aligns with the child’s lived experiences. For CSD students, this means being proactive in seeking tools and strategies that respect the cultural context of each child.

Adapting to Variations in African American English (AAE)

When working with children who use AAC, it’s crucial to consider language variations, especially African American English (AAE). Karina discusses how AAE is a rich, valid form of expression, and it’s essential to adjust AAC systems to reflect this linguistic variation. This adaptation helps ensure that children can communicate in ways that are culturally authentic to them. For students, this serves as a reminder to approach language variation with sensitivity and flexibility, ensuring that AAC tools provide room for diverse forms of communication.

Overcoming Barriers to AAC Access for Black Families

Barriers to accessing AAC services are unfortunately common for Black families. Karina explains that many families face challenges, including a lack of resources, limited awareness of AAC, and misconceptions about the effectiveness of AAC. To overcome these barriers, SLPs need to dialogue with families, educate them about AAC tools, and ensure that these services are accessible and culturally sensitive. This highlights the importance of advocacy and support for underserved communities, a critical aspect that CSD students should be mindful of as they enter the field.

The Importance of Representation in the SLP Field

With less than 4% of SLPs being Black, Karina points out how this lack of representation affects the experiences of Black children and their families. The absence of Black professionals in the field can lead to misunderstandings or missed opportunities to connect with families on a cultural level. Increasing diversity within the SLP profession is key to providing more equitable, culturally responsive services. This underscores the importance of fostering diversity in the field and becoming advocates for underrepresented communities.

By reflecting on these key takeaways, CSD students can better understand the intersection of language, culture, and AAC. Karina’s insights challenge future professionals to approach AAC implementation with cultural humility, ensuring that all children receive the most effective, respectful, and inclusive services possible.