Proloquo2Go – Augmentative and Alternative Communication Making a Difference

Published September 23, 2021

Just because someone isn’t able to communicate using their voice doesn’t mean they don’t have a lot to say. That’s why using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) as a way to supplement or compensate for the inability or difficulty to speak or be understood is so critical. Proloquo2Go is a communication solution that gives a natural, understandable voice to individuals that are non-verbal or have speech, language, or hearing disabilities that make clear communication difficult or impossible. Made by AssistiveWare, this symbol-based AAC tool enables users of all ages, including those who are unable to read or write, the ability to use visual symbols on their iOS devices to communicate.

Designed for people with a wide range of fine motor and visual skills, Proloquo2Go is fully customizable, can build language skills, and can grow with a person’s communication, from beginner to advanced levels. The concept is easy. Users can tap images and type words onto the app and a voice that they feel best suits their age, gender, and region will speak the words they select. Voices are available in a language of choice, with additional and higher quality voices available to download for use in calls.

Proloquo2Go as an accommodation

Proloquo2Go is available in the app store for $249.99, which may be cost-prohibitive for some.

Kristen Savino, a mother of two children that have a diagnosis of non-verbal autism, commented about the affordability and availability of the application, stating “one of the difficult parts of Proloquo2Go is it is an expensive speech program and it is only available on an Apple device, therefore you need an updated iPad in order to utilize the program."

However, most are not aware that the program may also be offered by their school district or county for no cost to students or parents. 

Speech-language pathologists who conduct AAC evaluations can e-mail AssistiveWare at AssistiveWare.com (this is an email link) to request the app free of charge, and each case will be reviewed and considered on an individual basis. Parents of school-aged children with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) can request to have the cost of the program and required device covered by their school district, and those with younger children can request the same from their county of residence.

“It may not be a typical situation to obtain a device before age 5, but it is possible and it should be a more natural occurrence because since obtaining the device, my son has been able to show his ability for identifying colors, numbers, letters, and seasons. Utilizing this program freed my child from the chains of his autism that kept his voice locked away,” Kristen said. 

Despite its cost, Kristen believes this is the best program of its kind.

“I truly believe out of all of the speech programs available that Proloquo2Go is the overall best program in design, accessibility, navigation, and the ability to grow with the child. I do hope with more advocacy and more awareness that families understand they have access to these programs. The world that is unlocked when your child with unique differences has a way to express their wants and needs is truly inspiring and such a beautiful world to be a part of.”

Catherine Gerard, Speech Therapist, and Special Education Teacher agrees.

“I love watching my preschool students discover the power of communication while using Proloquo2Go. The app has many features, it's user friendly, and it's easily customized to meet the needs of a variety of users.”

For more information on Proloquo2Go, visit their website or email their online support team. Professionals working with this program can take online training on a variety of topics related to AAC. Facebook groups for a variety of users are also available for information and support from other users in the AAC community.

 

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