Special Education Resources & Blog | So Very Spesh

As a new preservice teacher, I once unintentionally left a student using eye-gaze AAC out of a lesson simply because I didn't know how to include him. That moment changed the way I understand communication, participation, and inclusion forever. This post is an honest reflection on learning to slow down, presume competence, and make space for every voice -- because communication is not limited to speech, and inclusion is always a choice.

Visual supports and social stories can make an enormous difference for neurodivergent children navigating new experiences. From reducing anxiety to increasing confidence and participation, accessible preparation helps children feel safe, informed, and included in the world around them.

Speech-language pathologists have deeply shaped the way I approach teaching, communication, and inclusion. In this SLP Appreciation Day reflection, I'm sharing how collaboration with SLPs -- alongside my experiences supporting a nonspeaking individual and participating in Project PREP at WKU -- transformed my understanding of AAC, communication access, and creating meaningful opportunities for all students to participate in learning.