
THE RIGHT TO A VOICE
Imagine what it must be like to have thoughts, opinion and feelings just like everyone else, yet be unable to express them in words? People who are non-speakers need an effective way to communicate so that they can be fully included in their communities.
Inclusion and independence begins with ‘The Right to a Voice’. Just as people with sight impairments have Braille and audio-supports, and people with hearing impairments have an official Sign Language, so do non-speaking people need access to AAC. With the correct supports, this can provide a ‘first language’ for them, too.
There is now ample research to support the fact that individuals who have Angelman syndrome need a multi-modal communication system that incorporates AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication).
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Children's Rights in NZ
Children’s rights are human rights and human rights are universal. No child can be excluded from the right to express their opinion (The Right to be heard,Article 12). Meaningful participation must be based on the principles of equality, inclusion and accessibility; allowing children of all backgrounds to express their views, if they desire. Educational practice must now become inclusive beyond the classroom, ensuring the right to freedom of expression for all children, including those with learning or physical disabilities.
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The Communication Bill of rights (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association)
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Every child has rights poster – NZ Children’s Commissioner
No one should deny anyone else their own voice and means of communicating; no one should deny any child with AS access to a full communication system based on prerequisites, testing or demonstration of ability. It is the right of all children (and adults) who have speech impairments, to have access to AAC as soon as possible. The provision of a multi-modal system of communication is their fundamental Human Right.