AAC Services & Adapted Curriculum for Nonspeaking Students | Reach Every Voice | Maryland

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Every person has something to say — we make sure their voice is heard.

Reach Every Voice is a team of educators with decades of experience providing AAC instruction for nonspeaking and partially speaking autistic learners in Maryland. We offer one-on-one communication instruction, adapted grade-level curriculum, communication partner training, professional development for educators, and school consultation. Our practices draw from multiple evidence-based strategies, centered on a text-based, multimodal AAC approach that meets each learner where they are

Some communication approaches prescribe a rigid, step-by-step recipe for using their tools and instructional methods. At Reach Every Voice, we take a different path. Our practices are informed by multiple evidence-based strategies, drawing from a variety of sources to meet each learner where they are.

We know every student is unique — and most communicate in multiple and varied ways. That’s why our instruction centers on a text-based, multimodal AAC approach, empowering learners to express themselves authentically, confidently, and effectively.

Communication Isn't
One-Size-Fits-All

AAC Instruction, Educator Training, and Adapted Grade-Level Materials
Rooted in Gaithersburg & Severna Park, MD
Serving learners worldwide

Rooted Here. Reaching Further.

REV AccessAbility is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that has supported text-based multimodal communication since 2017.

We strive to provide access to more training, coaching, and practice opportunities and to work to make these more affordable for all stakeholders.

autism communication supports

we can help.

An estimated 40 percent of autistic individuals

do not use spoken language reliably.

Our teachers have decades of experience providing real education to students with communication access needs.

California Lutheran University Autism and Communication Center

Not An Autism Mom

Reach Every Voice collaborates with

praise from our families

What's in the REV Blog?

Stay Social with REV

🌞Looking for a summer program that prioritizes communication, connection, and meaningful participation?

Summer Institute at Reach Every Voice is a communication-centered learning experience where students engage in interest-based lessons, shared discussions supported by AAC, and guided peer interaction in a supportive small-group environment.

📍 Gaithersburg, MD
👥 Small groups (max 8 students)

Summer 2026 sessions:
June 22 – July 2
July 6 – July 17
July 20 – July 31

Learn more and register at the link in our bio.

#AAC #CommunicationAccess #PresumeCompetence #ReachEveryVoice

🌞Looking for a summer program that prioritizes communication, connection, and meaningful participation?

Summer Institute at Reach Every Voice is a communication-centered learning experience where students engage in interest-based lessons, shared discussions supported by AAC, and guided peer interaction in a supportive small-group environment.

📍 Gaithersburg, MD
👥 Small groups (max 8 students)

Summer 2026 sessions:
June 22 – July 2
July 6 – July 17
July 20 – July 31

Learn more and register at the link in our bio.

#AAC #CommunicationAccess #PresumeCompetence #ReachEveryVoice

When we hired Erin as our Program Director last fall, she came to us as a Teacher of the Year with 13 years in public special ed — and completely burned out by a system that kept getting in the way of the work she knew how to do.

Her first blog post for REV is honest, specific, and written for every educator who has ever watched a student's needs get negotiated down to what's convenient.

Link in bio.

#PresumeCompetence #SpecialEducation #AAC

When we hired Erin as our Program Director last fall, she came to us as a Teacher of the Year with 13 years in public special ed — and completely burned out by a system that kept getting in the way of the work she knew how to do.

Her first blog post for REV is honest, specific, and written for every educator who has ever watched a student's needs get negotiated down to what's convenient.

Link in bio.

#PresumeCompetence #SpecialEducation #AAC

Awareness is the first step.
Action creates access.

For many nonspeaking students, meaningful change happens when educators allow processing time, include students in academic discussions, and presume competence.

Small shifts in practice can open the door to communication, participation, and learning.

��💾 Save this post to revisit or share with colleagues working to create more inclusive learning environments.

#AAC #InclusiveEducation #CommunicationAccess #AssumeCompetence #ReachEveryVoice

Awareness is the first step.
Action creates access.

For many nonspeaking students, meaningful change happens when educators allow processing time, include students in academic discussions, and presume competence.

Small shifts in practice can open the door to communication, participation, and learning.

💾 Save this post to revisit or share with colleagues working to create more inclusive learning environments.

#AAC #InclusiveEducation #CommunicationAccess #AssumeCompetence #ReachEveryVoice

The best PD puts you in the room to practice -- with the people who know communication partnership from the inside.

REV's Communication Partner Skill Building Intensive is coming to Gaithersburg, MD this May. 2.5 days. Nonspeaking presenters leading Saturday afternoon. A Sunday session where parents can bring their own child for coaching.

Comment INTENSIVE for the registration link sent straight to your DMs.

#CommunicationPartners #AAC #ProfessionalDevelopment @mdddcouncil

The best PD puts you in the room to practice -- with the people who know communication partnership from the inside.

REV's Communication Partner Skill Building Intensive is coming to Gaithersburg, MD this May. 2.5 days. Nonspeaking presenters leading Saturday afternoon. A Sunday session where parents can bring their own child for coaching.

Comment INTENSIVE for the registration link sent straight to your DMs.

#CommunicationPartners #AAC #ProfessionalDevelopment @mdddcouncil

We see this all the time in schools.

People are doing the same drills they've been doing since their students were in kindergarten and now they're in 10th grade.

They have the same IEP goals.

They're still working on the same basic tasks.

Don't we want to ask the question, WHY?

How would you feel if at the age of 5 and the age of 15 you were working on the same thing?

Is it really that you don't know what you're doing or have you become so disenfranchised in this entire "educational" process that you've just stopped caring?

This is a theme among the things our students share. So much so that this post and our next will both address it.

Gordy tells us, "Imagine spending every day from age 5 to 21 looking at clocks, coins, and colors. Are you bored enough to riot? Are you defeated enough to unravel your shorts and eat them? I’ve been there and it sucks. If I could change just one thing about education before I die, it would be the idea that nonspeaking people can’t handle real academics. Do better."

Let's make this the year we actually follow through and do better. Want an easy place to get started? Check out this info on our Accessible Academics course - a super affordable, lifetime access, self-paced course designed to help parents or educators learn easy ways to make real academic content accessible to their learners who don't speak and may be communicating just by making choices.

We've helped more than 300 folks get started with this course. Let us help you, too.

Comment "Let's Go" for info on our Accessible Academics course👇

#Spellers #NonSpeakingDoesNotEqualNonThinking #PresumeCompetence #RealEducation #education #inclusion #LiteracyForAll #AAC #ReachEveryVoice #CommunicationAccess #Autism

We see this all the time in schools.

People are doing the same drills they've been doing since their students were in kindergarten and now they're in 10th grade.

They have the same IEP goals.

They're still working on the same basic tasks.

Don't we want to ask the question, WHY?

How would you feel if at the age of 5 and the age of 15 you were working on the same thing?

Is it really that you don't know what you're doing or have you become so disenfranchised in this entire "educational" process that you've just stopped caring?

This is a theme among the things our students share. So much so that this post and our next will both address it.

Gordy tells us, "Imagine spending every day from age 5 to 21 looking at clocks, coins, and colors. Are you bored enough to riot? Are you defeated enough to unravel your shorts and eat them? I’ve been there and it sucks. If I could change just one thing about education before I die, it would be the idea that nonspeaking people can’t handle real academics. Do better."

Let's make this the year we actually follow through and do better. Want an easy place to get started? Check out this info on our Accessible Academics course - a super affordable, lifetime access, self-paced course designed to help parents or educators learn easy ways to make real academic content accessible to their learners who don't speak and may be communicating just by making choices.

We've helped more than 300 folks get started with this course. Let us help you, too.

Comment "Let's Go" for info on our Accessible Academics course👇

#Spellers #NonSpeakingDoesNotEqualNonThinking #PresumeCompetence #RealEducation #education #inclusion #LiteracyForAll #AAC #ReachEveryVoice #CommunicationAccess #Autism

🌞 REV Summer 2026: Tweens & Teens

Tweens & teens deserve spaces where communication is supported and ideas are valued.

REV’s Tweens & Teens Collaborative Learning Group is an in-person summer program for ages 11–16 focused on discussion-based learning, connection, and growing independence.

📍 Gaithersburg & Severna Park
🗓 Weekly series + one-week intensive option

Spots are limited. Visit the link in our bio to learn more.

#ReachEveryVoice #AAC #InclusiveEducation #PresumeCompetence #CommunicationAccess

🌞 REV Summer 2026: Tweens & Teens

Tweens & teens deserve spaces where communication is supported and ideas are valued.

REV’s Tweens & Teens Collaborative Learning Group is an in-person summer program for ages 11–16 focused on discussion-based learning, connection, and growing independence.

📍 Gaithersburg & Severna Park
🗓 Weekly series + one-week intensive option

Spots are limited. Visit the link in our bio to learn more.

#ReachEveryVoice #AAC #InclusiveEducation #PresumeCompetence #CommunicationAccess

Processing time ≠ lack of understanding.

If a student doesn’t respond quickly, we often assume they don’t know.

But many students — especially those who type or use AAC — need extra time to organize their thoughts and access their communication system.

Silence can mean thinking.
Waiting can mean depth.
Time can mean rigor.

When we honor processing time, we honor intelligence.

Save this as a reminder. 💛

#AACAwareness #PresumeCompetence #InclusiveEducation #SpecialEducation #NeurodiversityAffirming #ProcessingTime #CommunicationAccess #AcademicRigor #HighExpectations #AutismAcceptance

Processing time ≠ lack of understanding.

If a student doesn’t respond quickly, we often assume they don’t know.

But many students — especially those who type or use AAC — need extra time to organize their thoughts and access their communication system.

Silence can mean thinking.
Waiting can mean depth.
Time can mean rigor.

When we honor processing time, we honor intelligence.

Save this as a reminder. 💛

#AACAwareness #PresumeCompetence #InclusiveEducation #SpecialEducation #NeurodiversityAffirming #ProcessingTime #CommunicationAccess #AcademicRigor #HighExpectations #AutismAcceptance

The first photo is one of Lisa's students back in 2010. He's dressed up like Ivan Rodriguez (a Washington Nationals player back then), he used AAC to augment his natural speech, and he presented in his school's living wax museum just like every other kid in his class.

The photo on the right is Charlotte. The year is 2026. She's autistic and nonspeaking, she uses AAC, and last week she presented in her school's living wax museum only because her mom fought for her to be included.

Sixteen years apart. Same project, same accommodations, same outcome: a student showing what they know, alongside their peers.

None of this required new research or new technology. The knowledge, tools, and evidence base have been there for decades. What's missing is the belief that autistic learners with communication support needs belong in the room where it happens.

We have to stop treating inclusion like it's experimental. It's not. It's a right. And for families like Charlotte's, every year we delay is a year their child spends excluded from the peers, the curriculum, and the community they belong in.

#InclusionIsNotNew #PresumeCompetence #EveryoneBelongs

The first photo is one of Lisa's students back in 2010. He's dressed up like Ivan Rodriguez (a Washington Nationals player back then), he used AAC to augment his natural speech, and he presented in his school's living wax museum just like every other kid in his class.

The photo on the right is Charlotte. The year is 2026. She's autistic and nonspeaking, she uses AAC, and last week she presented in her school's living wax museum only because her mom fought for her to be included.

Sixteen years apart. Same project, same accommodations, same outcome: a student showing what they know, alongside their peers.

None of this required new research or new technology. The knowledge, tools, and evidence base have been there for decades. What's missing is the belief that autistic learners with communication support needs belong in the room where it happens.

We have to stop treating inclusion like it's experimental. It's not. It's a right. And for families like Charlotte's, every year we delay is a year their child spends excluded from the peers, the curriculum, and the community they belong in.

#InclusionIsNotNew #PresumeCompetence #EveryoneBelongs

🌞 REV Summer 2026: Little Learners

Our Little Learners program is designed specifically for students ages 5–10 who are building communication skills in a supportive, small-group setting.

Over four days, students will practice meaningful communication, collaborate with peers, and build friendships — all while having fun.

📍 Gaithersburg
📅 August 3–6 (Mon–Thurs)
⏰ 10:30–11:45 AM
👥 Group size limited to 4 students

Comment LITTLE for the link to sign up👇

We can’t wait to see you this summer!

#ReachEveryVoice #CommunicationAccess #InclusiveLearning #SummerPrograms

🌞 REV Summer 2026: Little Learners

Our Little Learners program is designed specifically for students ages 5–10 who are building communication skills in a supportive, small-group setting.

Over four days, students will practice meaningful communication, collaborate with peers, and build friendships — all while having fun.

📍 Gaithersburg
📅 August 3–6 (Mon–Thurs)
⏰ 10:30–11:45 AM
👥 Group size limited to 4 students

Comment LITTLE for the link to sign up👇

We can’t wait to see you this summer!

#ReachEveryVoice #CommunicationAccess #InclusiveLearning #SummerPrograms

Charlotte is a second grader who goes to public school and also works with our teachers at REV. She’s nonspeaking and uses AAC to communicate. When the school’s second grade class did a living wax museum project, the school told her mom Alexys that they couldn’t possibly accommodate Charlotte’s participation.
Alexys, being our amazing intern and one of the most passionate parent advocates we’ve ever met, didn’t accept that.

Charlotte worked with her mom and with our teacher Anne to research Maria Tallchief, America’s first major prima ballerina. Charlotte made choices about which facts to include. Alexys programmed Charlotte’s communication device with her presentation. Charlotte dressed up like a ballerina and presented alongside her peers.

She didn’t need a different project or a separate version. She needed people who believed she could do it and then supported her in doing it. Most of all, she needed to belong in her school community.

That’s not extraordinary. That’s what every student deserves.

#InclusionWorks #EveryoneBelongs #PresumeCompetence

Charlotte is a second grader who goes to public school and also works with our teachers at REV. She’s nonspeaking and uses AAC to communicate. When the school’s second grade class did a living wax museum project, the school told her mom Alexys that they couldn’t possibly accommodate Charlotte’s participation.
Alexys, being our amazing intern and one of the most passionate parent advocates we’ve ever met, didn’t accept that.

Charlotte worked with her mom and with our teacher Anne to research Maria Tallchief, America’s first major prima ballerina. Charlotte made choices about which facts to include. Alexys programmed Charlotte’s communication device with her presentation. Charlotte dressed up like a ballerina and presented alongside her peers.

She didn’t need a different project or a separate version. She needed people who believed she could do it and then supported her in doing it. Most of all, she needed to belong in her school community.

That’s not extraordinary. That’s what every student deserves.

#InclusionWorks #EveryoneBelongs #PresumeCompetence

Understanding communication differences is important.

Designing for access is essential.

Accessible lessons don’t lower expectations — they remove barriers.

Clear expectations.
Flexible response options.
Built-in processing time.

When we design with access in mind, students show us what they know.

That’s how opportunity is created.

Which of these shifts are you intentionally building into your lessons?

#PresumeCompetence #InclusiveEducation #CommunicationAccess #AutismAcceptance #AccessibleAcademics

Understanding communication differences is important.

Designing for access is essential.

Accessible lessons don’t lower expectations — they remove barriers.

Clear expectations.
Flexible response options.
Built-in processing time.

When we design with access in mind, students show us what they know.

That’s how opportunity is created.

Which of these shifts are you intentionally building into your lessons?

#PresumeCompetence #InclusiveEducation #CommunicationAccess #AutismAcceptance #AccessibleAcademics

📚 Read with REV

This month’s selection, Life in Letters, brings together the voices of nonspeaking autistic individuals who communicate through spelling.

Through essays and personal reflections, contributors share their thoughts, experiences, and perspectives- offering readers the opportunity to hear directly from those whose voices are too often overlooked.

The book includes writing from one of our student’s siblings, making it a meaningful connection within our community.

Let us know if this one is on your reading list. 👇

#ReadWithREV #CommunicationAccess #AutismEducation

📚 Read with REV

This month’s selection, Life in Letters, brings together the voices of nonspeaking autistic individuals who communicate through spelling.

Through essays and personal reflections, contributors share their thoughts, experiences, and perspectives- offering readers the opportunity to hear directly from those whose voices are too often overlooked.

The book includes writing from one of our student’s siblings, making it a meaningful connection within our community.

Let us know if this one is on your reading list. 👇

#ReadWithREV #CommunicationAccess #AutismEducation

⏰ Why do we change the clocks every year?

We “spring forward” and “fall back”… but who decided that? And why do we still do it?

For a limited time, our lesson Why Do We Change the Clocks? is available FREE.

✨ Use code: SpringForward
🗓 Valid through 3/10/2026

Want the direct link to access it?

👉 Comment CLOCKS below and we’ll send it to you.

#FreeLesson #DaylightSavingTime #StudentLearning #CuriousMinds #ReachEveryVoice

⏰ Why do we change the clocks every year?

We “spring forward” and “fall back”… but who decided that? And why do we still do it?

For a limited time, our lesson Why Do We Change the Clocks? is available FREE.

✨ Use code: SpringForward
🗓 Valid through 3/10/2026

Want the direct link to access it?

👉 Comment CLOCKS below and we’ll send it to you.

#FreeLesson #DaylightSavingTime #StudentLearning #CuriousMinds #ReachEveryVoice

When students are given access and support, their voices shine.

Ryan wrote this original song, and we’re grateful to share it with you.

Take a moment to read through his lyrics.

If a line resonated with you, let us know below. 👇

To hear more student voices and stay connected with what’s happening at REV, subscribe at the bottom of our homepage.

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationAccess #ReachEveryVoice

When students are given access and support, their voices shine.

Ryan wrote this original song, and we’re grateful to share it with you.

Take a moment to read through his lyrics.

If a line resonated with you, let us know below. 👇

To hear more student voices and stay connected with what’s happening at REV, subscribe at the bottom of our homepage.

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationAccess #ReachEveryVoice

🌿 Greek Myths & Mighty Mortals begins THIS Saturday!

Hear ye, hear ye — an invitation from Mt. Olympus! ⚡

In just a few days, we begin this six-week online journey through Greek mythology — exploring epic tales through storytelling, history, and discussion while examining how these ancient stories still shape our world today.

Lessons are scaffolded to support engagement at many levels. Bring your boards, stencils, keyboards, and devices — and join us for thoughtful learning and fun.

🗓️ Begins March 7
🕰️ Saturdays | 12 PM ET / 9 AM PT
💻 Online + Recordings available
🎭 All experience levels welcome

👇 Class starts soon! Comment MYTHS below and we’ll DM you the details.

🌿 Greek Myths & Mighty Mortals begins THIS Saturday!

Hear ye, hear ye — an invitation from Mt. Olympus! ⚡

In just a few days, we begin this six-week online journey through Greek mythology — exploring epic tales through storytelling, history, and discussion while examining how these ancient stories still shape our world today.

Lessons are scaffolded to support engagement at many levels. Bring your boards, stencils, keyboards, and devices — and join us for thoughtful learning and fun.

🗓️ Begins March 7
🕰️ Saturdays | 12 PM ET / 9 AM PT
💻 Online + Recordings available
🎭 All experience levels welcome

👇 Class starts soon! Comment MYTHS below and we’ll DM you the details.

Typing doesn’t happen in isolation.

It happens with support, structure, and relationships that make communication possible.
At REV, we design lessons with this in mind—so communication can grow through partnership and intention.

#InclusiveCommunication #PresumeCompetence #CommunicationAccess

Typing doesn’t happen in isolation.

It happens with support, structure, and relationships that make communication possible.
At REV, we design lessons with this in mind—so communication can grow through partnership and intention.

#InclusiveCommunication #PresumeCompetence #CommunicationAccess

At REV, we prioritize connection over compliance. Before we ever work on skills, we work on trust. All our learners - like our littlest one here! - deserve a teacher who knows their favorite movie, celebrates their energy, and sees their full potential. From there, we build communication in ways that are student-led, joyful, and grounded in the belief that every learner is intelligent, capable, and has something meaningful to say. We presume competence, honor the brilliance each person brings, and hold high expectations because we know they are always learning.

#PresumeCompetence
#ConnectionOverCompliance
#CommunicationAccess

Image ID:

1: A woman in a pink hoodie sits at a sequined table smiling broadly, hugging a young girl with a ponytail and blue beaded necklace. An AAC tablet on a pink case sits on the table beside them.

2: A young girl in a lavender sweater reaches toward an AAC device on a pink case. Also visible are a laptop and a stencil alphabet board showing letters J through R.

3: A young girl leans forward focused on a laptop screen showing an animated scene, with an AAC device to her left and a picture card showing the word “Jam” and a stamp pad on the table in front of her.

4: A classroom wall with colorful circles in red, green, blue, purple, orange, and yellow, each labeled with a letter: P, H, C, S, T, and B. White tape lines divide the wall into sections, creating an interactive letter activity.

At REV, we prioritize connection over compliance. Before we ever work on skills, we work on trust. All our learners - like our littlest one here! - deserve a teacher who knows their favorite movie, celebrates their energy, and sees their full potential. From there, we build communication in ways that are student-led, joyful, and grounded in the belief that every learner is intelligent, capable, and has something meaningful to say. We presume competence, honor the brilliance each person brings, and hold high expectations because we know they are always learning.

#PresumeCompetence
#ConnectionOverCompliance
#CommunicationAccess

Image ID:

1: A woman in a pink hoodie sits at a sequined table smiling broadly, hugging a young girl with a ponytail and blue beaded necklace. An AAC tablet on a pink case sits on the table beside them.

2: A young girl in a lavender sweater reaches toward an AAC device on a pink case. Also visible are a laptop and a stencil alphabet board showing letters J through R.

3: A young girl leans forward focused on a laptop screen showing an animated scene, with an AAC device to her left and a picture card showing the word “Jam” and a stamp pad on the table in front of her.

4: A classroom wall with colorful circles in red, green, blue, purple, orange, and yellow, each labeled with a letter: P, H, C, S, T, and B. White tape lines divide the wall into sections, creating an interactive letter activity.

👕 Wear your advocacy.

REV merch is more than clothing — it’s a conversation starter.

Every piece strives to provide access to more training, coaching, and practice opportunities for those who support nonspeaking and minimally speaking students.

From classrooms to communities, these messages matter — and they’re meant to be seen, shared, and worn with intention.

Swipe to explore the collection, see how your purchase makes an impact, and meet some of the community that makes this work possible.

Comment ADVOCACY to get the link to explore REV's merch collection

Always, always #PresumeCompetence

👕 Wear your advocacy.

REV merch is more than clothing — it’s a conversation starter.

Every piece strives to provide access to more training, coaching, and practice opportunities for those who support nonspeaking and minimally speaking students.

From classrooms to communities, these messages matter — and they’re meant to be seen, shared, and worn with intention.

Swipe to explore the collection, see how your purchase makes an impact, and meet some of the community that makes this work possible.

Comment ADVOCACY to get the link to explore REV's merch collection

Always, always #PresumeCompetence

“Until I learned to type my thoughts, the whole world believed my capacity to think and learn was far gone. Now that I can show otherwise my life is becoming more full.

My point is that my collection of sayings and songs has probably kept people from believing I am smart.

Until someone has a way to really communicate, take their scripts in stride and speak to them like they understand everything you say.

There's an excellent chance they do.”

- Nick Barry

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationAccess

[id: a black and white photograph from behind of a young man pointing to a letter on a keyboard with his right hand, using a fidget with his left hand.]

“Until I learned to type my thoughts, the whole world believed my capacity to think and learn was far gone. Now that I can show otherwise my life is becoming more full.

My point is that my collection of sayings and songs has probably kept people from believing I am smart.

Until someone has a way to really communicate, take their scripts in stride and speak to them like they understand everything you say.

There's an excellent chance they do.”

- Nick Barry

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationAccess

[id: a black and white photograph from behind of a young man pointing to a letter on a keyboard with his right hand, using a fidget with his left hand.]

Supporting AAC often means unlearning what we think communication should look like.

Understanding doesn’t always move quickly.
Silence isn’t disengagement.
Trust matters more than efficiency.

This carousel is a reminder to slow down, reflect, and make space — not manage communication.

Always, always #presumecompetence

#AAC #ReachEveryVoice #InclusiveEducation #NonspeakingDoesNotEqualNonThinking

Supporting AAC often means unlearning what we think communication should look like.

Understanding doesn’t always move quickly.
Silence isn’t disengagement.
Trust matters more than efficiency.

This carousel is a reminder to slow down, reflect, and make space — not manage communication.

Always, always #presumecompetence

#AAC #ReachEveryVoice #InclusiveEducation #NonspeakingDoesNotEqualNonThinking

Inclusive communication means more than one way to be heard.

Devices break. Batteries die. Screens crack. Paper tools tear. And when communication relies on only one option, people lose their voice the moment something goes wrong.

Inclusive communication means planning for flexibility — multiple ways to express, backup systems, and opportunities to practice using them before they’re needed.

Communication access isn’t about convenience.
It’s about dignity, participation, and being heard — always.

#CommunicationAccess #AAC #InclusiveCommunication #PresumeCompetence

Inclusive communication means more than one way to be heard.

Devices break. Batteries die. Screens crack. Paper tools tear. And when communication relies on only one option, people lose their voice the moment something goes wrong.

Inclusive communication means planning for flexibility — multiple ways to express, backup systems, and opportunities to practice using them before they’re needed.

Communication access isn’t about convenience.
It’s about dignity, participation, and being heard — always.

#CommunicationAccess #AAC #InclusiveCommunication #PresumeCompetence

☀️It’s never too early to start planning for summer!

We’re excited to share our REV Summer 2026 programs, including in-person options in Gaithersburg and Severna Park, plus a virtual institute accessible from anywhere.

Swipe through for program types, locations, schedules, and sign-up details—and start planning ahead for a summer of connection, learning, and communication.

👉 Link in our bio to learn more or comment SUMMER for the link to sign up!

#ReachEveryVoice #PresumeCompetence #SummerInstitute #AAC #InclusiveEducation

☀️It’s never too early to start planning for summer!

We’re excited to share our REV Summer 2026 programs, including in-person options in Gaithersburg and Severna Park, plus a virtual institute accessible from anywhere.

Swipe through for program types, locations, schedules, and sign-up details—and start planning ahead for a summer of connection, learning, and communication.

👉 Link in our bio to learn more or comment SUMMER for the link to sign up!

#ReachEveryVoice #PresumeCompetence #SummerInstitute #AAC #InclusiveEducation

Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day.

For some people, that means flowers or dinner reservations. For others, it means something even more fundamental.

When you have reliable access to communication, you have access to connection. You can ask someone out. You can say yes. You can say no. You can figure out what you feel and whether the other person feels it too.

That is not something everyone has been given.

The young adults in our community deserve the same awkward, exciting, ordinary experiences as anyone else. Friendship. Attraction. Boundaries. Belonging. The chance to choose.

Relationships are not a luxury. They are part of being human.

Communication access is what makes that possible.

Access to communication is access to possibility.

Image ID: Four young adults stand close together in a classroom space, smiling at the camera. Two are holding alphabet letterboards. One person in the center holds a small gift bag with tissue paper and a card inside. The group appears relaxed and happy, suggesting connection and celebration.

#CommunicationIsAHumanRight
#PresumeCompetence
#AccessToConnection

Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day.

For some people, that means flowers or dinner reservations. For others, it means something even more fundamental.

When you have reliable access to communication, you have access to connection. You can ask someone out. You can say yes. You can say no. You can figure out what you feel and whether the other person feels it too.

That is not something everyone has been given.

The young adults in our community deserve the same awkward, exciting, ordinary experiences as anyone else. Friendship. Attraction. Boundaries. Belonging. The chance to choose.

Relationships are not a luxury. They are part of being human.

Communication access is what makes that possible.

Access to communication is access to possibility.

Image ID: Four young adults stand close together in a classroom space, smiling at the camera. Two are holding alphabet letterboards. One person in the center holds a small gift bag with tissue paper and a card inside. The group appears relaxed and happy, suggesting connection and celebration.

#CommunicationIsAHumanRight
#PresumeCompetence
#AccessToConnection

🌿 Attention all typers — spring planning is underway!

Hear ye, hear ye — an invitation from Mt. Olympus!

This six-week online class invites learners to explore Greek mythology through storytelling, history, and discussion, while examining how these ancient stories still shape our world today.

Lessons are scaffolded to support engagement at many levels. Bring your boards, stencils, keyboards, and devices — and join us for thoughtful learning and fun.

🗓️Begins March 7
🕰️Saturdays | 12 PM ET / 9 AM PT
💻Online + Recordings available
🎭 All experience levels welcome

👇Curious about this class? Comment MYTHS below and we’ll DM you the details.

🌿 Attention all typers — spring planning is underway!

Hear ye, hear ye — an invitation from Mt. Olympus!

This six-week online class invites learners to explore Greek mythology through storytelling, history, and discussion, while examining how these ancient stories still shape our world today.

Lessons are scaffolded to support engagement at many levels. Bring your boards, stencils, keyboards, and devices — and join us for thoughtful learning and fun.

🗓️Begins March 7
🕰️Saturdays | 12 PM ET / 9 AM PT
💻Online + Recordings available
🎭 All experience levels welcome

👇Curious about this class? Comment MYTHS below and we’ll DM you the details.

🎧Listening doesn’t always look the way we expect.

It isn’t defined by stillness, eye contact, or immediate responses.
Listening happens in the brain-not just in what we can see.

Sometimes listening looks like movement.
Sometimes it looks like silence.
Sometimes it looks like processing time.

This can look different for every communicator- and it still counts.
When we widen our understanding of listening, we create more space for real connection, respect, and inclusivity.

Follow for more inclusive communication education.

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationAccess #InclusiveCommunication #AAC #CommunicationIsAHumanRight #NonspeakingDoesNotEqualNonThinking #SpecialEducationTeachers

🎧Listening doesn’t always look the way we expect.

It isn’t defined by stillness, eye contact, or immediate responses.
Listening happens in the brain-not just in what we can see.

Sometimes listening looks like movement.
Sometimes it looks like silence.
Sometimes it looks like processing time.

This can look different for every communicator- and it still counts.
When we widen our understanding of listening, we create more space for real connection, respect, and inclusivity.

Follow for more inclusive communication education.

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationAccess #InclusiveCommunication #AAC #CommunicationIsAHumanRight #NonspeakingDoesNotEqualNonThinking #SpecialEducationTeachers

📚 Read with REV!

Through lived experience and self-advocacy, Communication Alternatives in Autism: Perspectives on Typing and Spelling explores communication beyond speech.

Ten autistic self-advocates share their experiences using letter boards and keyboards, including approaches such as RPM and facilitated communication. Their stories reflect the complexities of navigating these methods in educational and community settings while emphasizing disability rights and access.

The book concludes with practical reflections for educators supporting students who use these communication approaches.

Save this post to read along.

Always, always #PresumeCompetence

📚 Read with REV!

Through lived experience and self-advocacy, Communication Alternatives in Autism: Perspectives on Typing and Spelling explores communication beyond speech.

Ten autistic self-advocates share their experiences using letter boards and keyboards, including approaches such as RPM and facilitated communication. Their stories reflect the complexities of navigating these methods in educational and community settings while emphasizing disability rights and access.

The book concludes with practical reflections for educators supporting students who use these communication approaches.

Save this post to read along.

Always, always #PresumeCompetence

Super Bowl weekend is here, football fans! 🏈

Grab our History of the Super Bowl lesson FREE using code SUPERBOWL at checkout.

This limited-time freebie is available through February 13.

Plus, explore 300+ inclusive communication lessons in our lesson library—designed to support diverse learners and presume competence.

Comment SUPERBOWL and we’ll send you the link to access the lesson 👇

#PresumeCompetence #SuperBowl #AAC #ReachEveryVoice

Super Bowl weekend is here, football fans! 🏈

Grab our History of the Super Bowl lesson FREE using code SUPERBOWL at checkout.

This limited-time freebie is available through February 13.

Plus, explore 300+ inclusive communication lessons in our lesson library—designed to support diverse learners and presume competence.

Comment SUPERBOWL and we’ll send you the link to access the lesson 👇

#PresumeCompetence #SuperBowl #AAC #ReachEveryVoice

Communication doesn’t begin with spoken words.

It begins with connection, intent, and understanding.

When we recognize and honor all forms of communication, we create more inclusive and supportive environments for students with diverse needs.

Communication is happening — we just have to learn how to notice it.

Save this post to revisit later or share it with someone who supports communication.

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationIsAHumanRight #Inclusion #NonspeakingDoesNotEqualNonThinking

Communication doesn’t begin with spoken words.

It begins with connection, intent, and understanding.

When we recognize and honor all forms of communication, we create more inclusive and supportive environments for students with diverse needs.

Communication is happening — we just have to learn how to notice it.

Save this post to revisit later or share it with someone who supports communication.

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationIsAHumanRight #Inclusion #NonspeakingDoesNotEqualNonThinking

2016 → 2026

When you lead with respect and belief in competence, people grow.

Sometimes literally.

#PresumeCompetence
#CommunicationIsAHumanRight
#2016to2026

image id: Two side-by-side photos labeled 2016 and 2026. In both images, Lisa and Ethan stand together looking at a communication device. In the later photo, Ethan is noticeably taller. The images highlight a long-standing relationship centered on communication access and mutual respect.

2016 → 2026

When you lead with respect and belief in competence, people grow.

Sometimes literally.

#PresumeCompetence
#CommunicationIsAHumanRight
#2016to2026

image id: Two side-by-side photos labeled 2016 and 2026. In both images, Lisa and Ethan stand together looking at a communication device. In the later photo, Ethan is noticeably taller. The images highlight a long-standing relationship centered on communication access and mutual respect.

If we don't make it our default practice to presume competence in our students, we will likely - however unintentionally - restrict the opportunities we provide them.

Presuming competence and providing opportunities consistent with high expectations is the LEAST DANGEROUS ASSUMPTION. Why? Because how terrible would it be if we didn't presume competence and we were proven incorrect?

And yes, this applies to EVERYONE. We need to see ALL individuals as capable learners, no matter the extent of their support needs.

image id: a gray background with teal and gray paint streaks. On it is a reminder pop up with the words shared above.

#PresumeCompetence
#InclusiveEducation #RethinkAutism #SpecialEducation #InclusionWorks #Autism #SpecialEducationTeachers #Inclusion #NonspeakingDoesNotEqualNonThinking

If we don't make it our default practice to presume competence in our students, we will likely - however unintentionally - restrict the opportunities we provide them.

Presuming competence and providing opportunities consistent with high expectations is the LEAST DANGEROUS ASSUMPTION. Why? Because how terrible would it be if we didn't presume competence and we were proven incorrect?

And yes, this applies to EVERYONE. We need to see ALL individuals as capable learners, no matter the extent of their support needs.

image id: a gray background with teal and gray paint streaks. On it is a reminder pop up with the words shared above.

#PresumeCompetence
#InclusiveEducation #RethinkAutism #SpecialEducation #InclusionWorks #Autism #SpecialEducationTeachers #Inclusion #NonspeakingDoesNotEqualNonThinking

“You should try PECS!”

No.
No.
No.

Because communication is bigger than requests.

As Jordyn Zimmerman says:
“PECS is not a communication system. PECS is a requesting system.”

Requesting is one function of communication.
It is not identity.
It is not autonomy.
It is not participation.

If a learner can only ask for what others decide is worth asking for, that’s not access. That’s limitation.

Presume competence.
Build robust communication systems.
Listen when nonspeaking people tell us what doesn’t work.

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationIsAHumanRight #AAC #NonspeakingVoices #DoBetter

“You should try PECS!”

No.
No.
No.

Because communication is bigger than requests.

As Jordyn Zimmerman says:
“PECS is not a communication system. PECS is a requesting system.”

Requesting is one function of communication.
It is not identity.
It is not autonomy.
It is not participation.

If a learner can only ask for what others decide is worth asking for, that’s not access. That’s limitation.

Presume competence.
Build robust communication systems.
Listen when nonspeaking people tell us what doesn’t work.

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationIsAHumanRight #AAC #NonspeakingVoices #DoBetter

“You should try PECS!”

No.
No.
No.

Because communication is bigger than requests.

As Jordyn Zimmerman says:
“PECS is not a communication system. PECS is a requesting system.”

Requesting is one function of communication.
It is not identity.
It is not autonomy.
It is not participation.

If a learner can only ask for what others decide is worth asking for, that’s not access. That’s limitation.

Presume competence.
Build robust communication systems.
Listen when nonspeaking people tell us what doesn’t work.

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationIsAHumanRight #AAC #NonspeakingVoices #DoBetter

“You should try PECS!”

No.
No.
No.

Because communication is bigger than requests.

As Jordyn Zimmerman says:
“PECS is not a communication system. PECS is a requesting system.”

Requesting is one function of communication.
It is not identity.
It is not autonomy.
It is not participation.

If a learner can only ask for what others decide is worth asking for, that’s not access. That’s limitation.

Presume competence.
Build robust communication systems.
Listen when nonspeaking people tell us what doesn’t work.

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationIsAHumanRight #AAC #NonspeakingVoices #DoBetter

Why is it that when we start documenting the supports a student needs to successfully access an education, the response from schools is almost always that the student needs to be moved to a segregated classroom?

Why does it feel like advocating for more supports can sometimes trigger the actual opposite thing we're trying to accomplish?

When we create prerequisites for inclusion or place limits on the number and type of supports we think are appropriate to provide in an inclusive classroom, we're perpetuating the problems that plague students with high support needs by placing them in environments that largely don't presume competence or provide access to real education.

Kayla Takeuchi, a nonspeaking college student captures the unfairness of this situation best: "I always resented the fact that I had to 'earn' my place in regular education just because I am nonspeaking while all the other students who couldn't care less about school got a free pass to a real education."

#PresumeCompetence #InclusiveEducation #Education #AutismAwareness #NonspeakingDoesNotEqualNonthinking #Inclusion #RethinkAutism #autism #AutismAcceptance #InclusionWorks #SpecialEducation #SpecialEducators

Why is it that when we start documenting the supports a student needs to successfully access an education, the response from schools is almost always that the student needs to be moved to a segregated classroom?

Why does it feel like advocating for more supports can sometimes trigger the actual opposite thing we're trying to accomplish?

When we create prerequisites for inclusion or place limits on the number and type of supports we think are appropriate to provide in an inclusive classroom, we're perpetuating the problems that plague students with high support needs by placing them in environments that largely don't presume competence or provide access to real education.

Kayla Takeuchi, a nonspeaking college student captures the unfairness of this situation best: "I always resented the fact that I had to 'earn' my place in regular education just because I am nonspeaking while all the other students who couldn't care less about school got a free pass to a real education."

#PresumeCompetence #InclusiveEducation #Education #AutismAwareness #NonspeakingDoesNotEqualNonthinking #Inclusion #RethinkAutism #autism #AutismAcceptance #InclusionWorks #SpecialEducation #SpecialEducators

Rooted in care. Growing with joy.
Starting the year together at REV.

Rooted in care. Growing with joy.
Starting the year together at REV.

And with that, the 2025 season comes to an end.

We disrupted some norms.
Named some ableism.
Built things that didn’t exist yet.

Grateful for a community that’s brave enough to imagine better—and stubborn enough to demand it.

#ReachEveryVoice #InclusiveEducation #EveryoneBelongs #CommunicationIsAHumanRight
#PresumeCompetence

And with that, the 2025 season comes to an end.

We disrupted some norms.
Named some ableism.
Built things that didn’t exist yet.

Grateful for a community that’s brave enough to imagine better—and stubborn enough to demand it.

#ReachEveryVoice #InclusiveEducation #EveryoneBelongs #CommunicationIsAHumanRight
#PresumeCompetence

All we want for Christmas is simple.
Communication. Access. Autonomy.

And this year, we’re done asking politely.

🎄🔥

Concept by Nick Barry — nonspeaking AAC user and longtime REV advocate.

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationIsAHumanRight #EndAbleism #DisabilityJustice #InclusiveEducation

All we want for Christmas is simple.
Communication. Access. Autonomy.

And this year, we’re done asking politely.

🎄🔥

Concept by Nick Barry — nonspeaking AAC user and longtime REV advocate.

#PresumeCompetence #CommunicationIsAHumanRight #EndAbleism #DisabilityJustice #InclusiveEducation

History doesn’t look kindly on gatekeeping human rights.

Restricting communication access to nonspeaking people in the name of policy, purity, or professional comfort puts us on the wrong side of history—every time.

AAC works because people work.
Support isn’t fraud.
Access isn’t dangerous.
Silence is.

When asked to reject practices that limit communication access—
say yes.

🎥 Reel created by Ethan Tucker

#CommunicationIsAHumanRight #PresumeCompetence #AAC #AACUsers #Nonspeaking #CommunicationAccess #DisabilityJustice #EndAbleism #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs #InclusiveEducation #AccessNotCompliance #SupportIsNotCheating #ListenToDisabledVoices

History doesn’t look kindly on gatekeeping human rights.

Restricting communication access to nonspeaking people in the name of policy, purity, or professional comfort puts us on the wrong side of history—every time.

AAC works because people work.
Support isn’t fraud.
Access isn’t dangerous.
Silence is.

When asked to reject practices that limit communication access—
say yes.

🎥 Reel created by Ethan Tucker

#CommunicationIsAHumanRight #PresumeCompetence #AAC #AACUsers #Nonspeaking #CommunicationAccess #DisabilityJustice #EndAbleism #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs #InclusiveEducation #AccessNotCompliance #SupportIsNotCheating #ListenToDisabledVoices

Presuming competence was never meant to be conditional.

It was never about perfect posture, the “right” tool, a specific sequence, or performing in a particular way before access was granted.

It was about trust.
About access.
About opening doors instead of guarding them.

Lately, we’re hearing from families and practitioners who are being told no — not by schools, but by systems and approaches that promised something different. Different branding. Same gatekeeping.

That tension is sitting with us. And it’s what led to this reflection.

If you want to read the full blog and join the larger conversation,
comment ACCESS and we’ll send you the link.

More to read.
More to discuss.
More to rethink — together.

Presuming competence was never meant to be conditional.

It was never about perfect posture, the “right” tool, a specific sequence, or performing in a particular way before access was granted.

It was about trust.
About access.
About opening doors instead of guarding them.

Lately, we’re hearing from families and practitioners who are being told no — not by schools, but by systems and approaches that promised something different. Different branding. Same gatekeeping.

That tension is sitting with us. And it’s what led to this reflection.

If you want to read the full blog and join the larger conversation,
comment ACCESS and we’ll send you the link.

More to read.
More to discuss.
More to rethink — together.

✨ Huzzah, Shakespeare! ✨
Good morrow, fair learners!

This winter, join us for a 6-week online exploration of William Shakespeare—his stories, his world, and his lasting impact on storytelling as we know it.

🗓 Begins January 10
🕰 Saturdays | 12 PM ET / 9 AM PT
💻 Online + recordings available
🎭 All experience levels welcome

Curious about life in Shakespeare’s time? Love stories, drama, and history? This one’s for you.

👇 Comment SHAKESPEARE below and we’ll DM you the details!

#HuzzahShakespeare #OnlineLearning #InclusiveEducation #LifelongLearning #PresumeCompetence #CommunicationIsAHumanRight #HumanitiesEducation #HomeschoolCommunity #CuriousLearners #VirtualClasses #ReachEveryVoice #REVCommunity #NonspeakingDoesNotEqualNonthinking #AAC

✨ Huzzah, Shakespeare! ✨
Good morrow, fair learners!

This winter, join us for a 6-week online exploration of William Shakespeare—his stories, his world, and his lasting impact on storytelling as we know it.

🗓 Begins January 10
🕰 Saturdays | 12 PM ET / 9 AM PT
💻 Online + recordings available
🎭 All experience levels welcome

Curious about life in Shakespeare’s time? Love stories, drama, and history? This one’s for you.

👇 Comment SHAKESPEARE below and we’ll DM you the details!

#HuzzahShakespeare #OnlineLearning #InclusiveEducation #LifelongLearning #PresumeCompetence #CommunicationIsAHumanRight #HumanitiesEducation #HomeschoolCommunity #CuriousLearners #VirtualClasses #ReachEveryVoice #REVCommunity #NonspeakingDoesNotEqualNonthinking #AAC

They see a diagnosis. We see a person.

In Ethan's powerful words, we're reminded of the vast difference between fixing, training, and dismissing versus truly seeing, supporting, and empowering.

At REV, we've spent 10 years rejecting the deficit model. We don't try to make nonspeaking autistic individuals fit into neurotypical boxes. Instead, we create environments where autonomy thrives alongside necessary support.

This dual commitment—honoring independence while providing robust assistance—is at the heart of everything we do. Because presuming competence isn't just a philosophy; it's the foundation for meaningful connection.

This understanding of the power of autonomy is at the heart of our work, and it's so important to Ethan that he pitched an entire presentation to TASH's National Conference about it. We're heading to Denver tomorrow!

"MDs see me as someone to cure. BCBAs see me as someone to train to fit a neurotypical world. SLPs see me as someone incapable of real communication. But my REV teachers see me as someone capable of having so much autonomy thought I definitely need a lot of support."

Ethan Tucker

#AutisticVoicesMatter #PresumingCompetence #NeurodiversityAffirming #AutonomyWithSupport

[ID: A blue and white graphic featuring a quote from Ethan Tucker contrasting how different professionals view him versus REV teachers. The right side shows Ethan, a young man with short dark hair wearing a black shirt, leaning up against a window.]

📧 info@ReachEveryVoice.org 🌐 www.ReachEveryVoice.org

They see a diagnosis. We see a person.

In Ethan's powerful words, we're reminded of the vast difference between fixing, training, and dismissing versus truly seeing, supporting, and empowering.

At REV, we've spent 10 years rejecting the deficit model. We don't try to make nonspeaking autistic individuals fit into neurotypical boxes. Instead, we create environments where autonomy thrives alongside necessary support.

This dual commitment—honoring independence while providing robust assistance—is at the heart of everything we do. Because presuming competence isn't just a philosophy; it's the foundation for meaningful connection.

This understanding of the power of autonomy is at the heart of our work, and it's so important to Ethan that he pitched an entire presentation to TASH's National Conference about it. We're heading to Denver tomorrow!

"MDs see me as someone to cure. BCBAs see me as someone to train to fit a neurotypical world. SLPs see me as someone incapable of real communication. But my REV teachers see me as someone capable of having so much autonomy thought I definitely need a lot of support."

Ethan Tucker

#AutisticVoicesMatter #PresumingCompetence #NeurodiversityAffirming #AutonomyWithSupport

[ID: A blue and white graphic featuring a quote from Ethan Tucker contrasting how different professionals view him versus REV teachers. The right side shows Ethan, a young man with short dark hair wearing a black shirt, leaning up against a window.]

📧 info@ReachEveryVoice.org 🌐 www.ReachEveryVoice.org

It’s Giving Tuesday ✨
And today, we’re inviting our community to help us bring Transforming Access to life.

Last week, we received $8,500 from The Arc Maryland to launch this project — a huge start toward building adapted, grade-level lessons for nonspeaking and neurodivergent learners.

But the full cost is closer to $18,000, and we need your help to finish the work.

If you believe every student deserves access to rigorous learning — no matter how they communicate — we would be honored to have your support today.

💙 Comment “DONATE” and we’ll DM you the link.
Thank you for helping us bridge the gap and build real access for our learners.

#GivingTuesday #ReachEveryVoice #NonspeakingNotNonthinking #PresumeCompetence #InclusiveEducation #Adaptiverse #TheArcMaryland #EveryoneBelongs

It’s Giving Tuesday ✨
And today, we’re inviting our community to help us bring Transforming Access to life.

Last week, we received $8,500 from The Arc Maryland to launch this project — a huge start toward building adapted, grade-level lessons for nonspeaking and neurodivergent learners.

But the full cost is closer to $18,000, and we need your help to finish the work.

If you believe every student deserves access to rigorous learning — no matter how they communicate — we would be honored to have your support today.

💙 Comment “DONATE” and we’ll DM you the link.
Thank you for helping us bridge the gap and build real access for our learners.

#GivingTuesday #ReachEveryVoice #NonspeakingNotNonthinking #PresumeCompetence #InclusiveEducation #Adaptiverse #TheArcMaryland #EveryoneBelongs

Ten years in, and our gratitude runs deep — for our students, our families, and everyone fighting for true communication access. Wishing you a warm and joyful Thanksgiving. 💙🧡

Ten years in, and our gratitude runs deep — for our students, our families, and everyone fighting for true communication access. Wishing you a warm and joyful Thanksgiving. 💙🧡

It's been a minute since Nick has asked to write new tips to share, but he's back with a fresh set - 4 Ways to Stop People Pleasing.

The working title for this post, which Nick asked to include in the caption, was "Tips for like stopping doing things that you feel go against yourself but make others happy."

When we asked Nick what other context he wanted to have shared in the caption, he wanted us to tell you all that "so many nice people try to make others happy. This is considerably more complicated as someone who relies on support."

Here they are, Nick's 4 tips for ways to stop people pleasing.

1. Trust your true worth.
Really try to believe you are tremendously important and your opinions deserve great air time.

2. Try to free yourself from it.
The thing stopping me from sharing my true opinions is often fear. Getting courage takes real effort but it frees you.

3. Take a chance.
Remember you don’t grow from being silent. You grow from great risks.

4. Free yourself from weight of others' feelings.
You have to find the release of trying to manage other people' s reactions to what you say. You for once should let go of the urge to make sure no one is upset.

You matter.
Your opinions matter.

#PresumeCompetence
#NonspeakingNotNonthinking
#SelfAdvocacy
#ReachEveryVoice
#CommunicationAccess
#Autonomy
#InclusiveEducation
#NothingAboutUsWithoutUs
#NicksTips

It's been a minute since Nick has asked to write new tips to share, but he's back with a fresh set - 4 Ways to Stop People Pleasing.

The working title for this post, which Nick asked to include in the caption, was "Tips for like stopping doing things that you feel go against yourself but make others happy."

When we asked Nick what other context he wanted to have shared in the caption, he wanted us to tell you all that "so many nice people try to make others happy. This is considerably more complicated as someone who relies on support."

Here they are, Nick's 4 tips for ways to stop people pleasing.

1. Trust your true worth.
Really try to believe you are tremendously important and your opinions deserve great air time.

2. Try to free yourself from it.
The thing stopping me from sharing my true opinions is often fear. Getting courage takes real effort but it frees you.

3. Take a chance.
Remember you don’t grow from being silent. You grow from great risks.

4. Free yourself from weight of others' feelings.
You have to find the release of trying to manage other people' s reactions to what you say. You for once should let go of the urge to make sure no one is upset.

You matter.
Your opinions matter.

#PresumeCompetence
#NonspeakingNotNonthinking
#SelfAdvocacy
#ReachEveryVoice
#CommunicationAccess
#Autonomy
#InclusiveEducation
#NothingAboutUsWithoutUs
#NicksTips

What a night. ✨

A massive thank you to The Arc Maryland for hosting SpArc Tank Ig-Nite and championing innovative, inclusive solutions.

We shared our vision for truly accessible grade-level learning for nonspeaking learners — and the room said YES.

We’re honored to have received our full grant request and the People’s Choice Award (+$1,000!).

That $8.5k gets us almost halfway toward building this adapted curriculum model…
but the full project cost is closer to $18k.

If you want to help bring this project to life,
💬 comment “Donate” and we’ll DM you the link.

Thank you for celebrating with us, believing in this work, and backing real inclusion. 💙

#ReachEveryVoice #Inclusion #AccessibilityMatters #NonspeakingNotNonthinking #PresumeCompetence #SpArcTank #TheArcMaryland #EveryoneBelongs #SupportInclusion

What a night. ✨

A massive thank you to The Arc Maryland for hosting SpArc Tank Ig-Nite and championing innovative, inclusive solutions.

We shared our vision for truly accessible grade-level learning for nonspeaking learners — and the room said YES.

We’re honored to have received our full grant request and the People’s Choice Award (+$1,000!).

That $8.5k gets us almost halfway toward building this adapted curriculum model…
but the full project cost is closer to $18k.

If you want to help bring this project to life,
💬 comment “Donate” and we’ll DM you the link.

Thank you for celebrating with us, believing in this work, and backing real inclusion. 💙

#ReachEveryVoice #Inclusion #AccessibilityMatters #NonspeakingNotNonthinking #PresumeCompetence #SpArcTank #TheArcMaryland #EveryoneBelongs #SupportInclusion

Today we pause to honor the life and legacy of Alice Wong, a powerful voice in disability justice and the founder of the Disability Visibility Project.

We wrote this lesson —exploring her work, her storytelling, and her commitment to amplifying disabled voices—this summer and had not yet published it. Today we're sharing completely free to our community. It’s our way of continuing her mission: ensuring every voice is heard.

Comment "Alice Wong" and we'll send you a DM with the link to the lesson.

Use code: DisabilityVisibility at checkout

#AliceWong
#HonorHerLegacy
#DisabilityVisibility
#RestInPower
#DisabilityJustice
#NothingAboutUsWithoutUs
#DisabledAndProud
#DisabilityCommunity
#ReachEveryVoice
#REVAccessAbility
#PresumeCompetence

Today we pause to honor the life and legacy of Alice Wong, a powerful voice in disability justice and the founder of the Disability Visibility Project.

We wrote this lesson —exploring her work, her storytelling, and her commitment to amplifying disabled voices—this summer and had not yet published it. Today we're sharing completely free to our community. It’s our way of continuing her mission: ensuring every voice is heard.

Comment "Alice Wong" and we'll send you a DM with the link to the lesson.

Use code: DisabilityVisibility at checkout

#AliceWong
#HonorHerLegacy
#DisabilityVisibility
#RestInPower
#DisabilityJustice
#NothingAboutUsWithoutUs
#DisabledAndProud
#DisabilityCommunity
#ReachEveryVoice
#REVAccessAbility
#PresumeCompetence

🎉 We turned 10 today! 🎉

Ten years ago, Reach Every Voice began with a belief — that communication is a human right, and that every learner deserves access to a voice and a meaningful education.

What started as a small idea has grown into a community of students, families, and educators who are transforming what’s possible for nonspeaking and partially speaking learners every single day.

To everyone who has been part of this journey — thank you. 💙
Here’s to a decade of communication, education, and empowerment… and to everything still to come.

#ReachEveryVoice #REVAccessAbility #10YearsStrong #EveryoneBelongs #PresumeCompetence #AAC #NonspeakingNotNonthinking #InclusiveEducation #CommunicationForEducation #AccessibleAcademics

🎉 We turned 10 today! 🎉

Ten years ago, Reach Every Voice began with a belief — that communication is a human right, and that every learner deserves access to a voice and a meaningful education.

What started as a small idea has grown into a community of students, families, and educators who are transforming what’s possible for nonspeaking and partially speaking learners every single day.

To everyone who has been part of this journey — thank you. 💙
Here’s to a decade of communication, education, and empowerment… and to everything still to come.

#ReachEveryVoice #REVAccessAbility #10YearsStrong #EveryoneBelongs #PresumeCompetence #AAC #NonspeakingNotNonthinking #InclusiveEducation #CommunicationForEducation #AccessibleAcademics

🎉 Tomorrow marks 10 years of Reach Every Voice! 🎉
For a decade, we’ve been building bridges—helping nonspeaking and partially speaking learners access communication, education, and empowerment.

From our first few students in 2015 to hundreds of families, educators, and advocates around the world today, your belief in inclusion and communication access has fueled every bit of this impact.

Swipe through to see what we’ve built together over 10 years — and how your support continues to shape what’s next.

Communication. Education. Empowerment.
Help us continue the work: comment “donate” for a donation link to increase the impact we have in the lives of our students and their families.💙

#ReachEveryVoice #REVAccessAbility #PresumeCompetence #Inclusion #AAC #NonspeakingNotNonthinking #CommunicationForEducation #AccessibleAcademics #10YearsStrong #EveryoneBelongs

🎉 Tomorrow marks 10 years of Reach Every Voice! 🎉
For a decade, we’ve been building bridges—helping nonspeaking and partially speaking learners access communication, education, and empowerment.

From our first few students in 2015 to hundreds of families, educators, and advocates around the world today, your belief in inclusion and communication access has fueled every bit of this impact.

Swipe through to see what we’ve built together over 10 years — and how your support continues to shape what’s next.

Communication. Education. Empowerment.
Help us continue the work: comment “donate” for a donation link to increase the impact we have in the lives of our students and their families.💙

#ReachEveryVoice #REVAccessAbility #PresumeCompetence #Inclusion #AAC #NonspeakingNotNonthinking #CommunicationForEducation #AccessibleAcademics #10YearsStrong #EveryoneBelongs

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