People communicate in many different ways. They speak, text, type, video call, and more. Plus they can do it whenever they want. Non-speakers have many more barriers. We are limited by motor control, communication partner access, device batteries, device programming, regulation, and more. Finding the best communication method is challenging. If you don’t speak, all of the alternative communication methods have pros and cons. I was very lucky to find spelling worked best for me at a very young age. I also developed some basic sign language skills. I largely refused any other ways to communicate because it was so difficult.

I do have some regrets about not being open to learning multiple ways to communicate all at the same time. I think it would have given me more options. In adulthood I have focused on adding more methods to communicate. One thing I learned for fun, but now use for some quick communication is Pinterest. I find things I like on it and then can show people what I want. I also have an Alexa page on my device with my favorite things, so I can quickly ask Alexa for things like music or podcasts. I also still use sign language for basic requests. These things have made me more well rounded and allow me to communicate in more settings.