Empowering Communication: Pic-A-Talk’s Impact Through TWINKLE Events

At Pic-A-Talk, we believe that communication is a fundamental human right, and every individual, regardless of their abilities, deserves to have their voice heard. Through our TWINKLE (Teaching Workshop for Innovative New Knowledge and Language Education) events, we are actively working toward fostering a world where Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is widely understood and accessible.

This February, we had the privilege of conducting three impactful TWINKLE sessions across different institutions, each dedicated to creating inclusive learning and communication environments. From engaging with medical professionals to empowering educators, our journey this month reaffirmed the importance of collaboration in making AAC more accessible.

Here’s a look at how our TWINKLE events at South Imus Specialist Hospital, Bright Kids Primary and Play School, and Bright Light Academy made a difference.

Bringing AAC Awareness to South Imus Specialist Hospital

We kicked off our TWINKLE series on January 27, 2025, with an online AAC awareness session in collaboration with the South Imus Specialist Hospital Child Neurodevelopmental and Adolescent Unit. This event was an essential step in introducing AAC to medical professionals who work closely with children experiencing speech and language difficulties.

During the session, we highlighted how AAC tools, such as the Pic-A-Talk app, can transform the way nonverbal individuals communicate. The healthcare team showed great enthusiasm, actively engaging in discussions and asking insightful questions about integrating AAC into their patient care practices.

By working with medical institutions like South Imus Specialist Hospital, we aim to bridge the gap between healthcare and technology, ensuring that more children receive the support they need to communicate effectively.

Empowering Educators at Bright Kids Primary and Play School

Education plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s ability to express themselves, and on February 22, 2025, we had the pleasure of conducting an AAC workshop at Bright Kids Primary and Play School. This session focused on equipping teachers with the knowledge and tools necessary to support students with communication challenges.

The response from the educators was incredibly inspiring. Many shared personal experiences of working with children who struggle to express their thoughts and emotions, and they were eager to learn how AAC can empower these students.

During the workshop, we:

✅ Introduced the basics of AAC and how it benefits children with communication difficulties.

✅ Demonstrated how Pic-A-Talk can be used as a tool for both structured learning and everyday conversations.

✅ Provided hands-on activities that allowed teachers to experience AAC from a child’s perspective.

By the end of the session, the educators expressed a renewed commitment to making their classrooms more inclusive. Seeing their passion for fostering communication accessibility reaffirmed our mission and reminded us that educators play a vital role in shaping a more inclusive future.

Creating Inclusive Learning at Bright Light Academy

We wrapped up our TWINKLE series on February 27, 2025, with a meaningful AAC session at Bright Light Academy in Cagayan de Oro. The enthusiasm and warm welcome from the school’s educators and staff set the tone for an engaging and insightful discussion.

The goal of this session was to help teachers understand how they can integrate AAC tools into their everyday teaching strategies. We showcased how technology-driven communication solutions, like Pic-A-Talk, can significantly improve interactions between educators and students with speech difficulties.

Key takeaways from this session included:

🌟 The importance of AAC in fostering independence and confidence in children.

🌟 Practical ways to implement AAC tools in the classroom setting.

🌟 Encouraging peer involvement to create a more supportive learning environment.

The educators at Bright Light Academy displayed a strong commitment to embracing new methods and technologies to ensure that no student is left behind. Their eagerness to learn and grow with us was truly inspiring, and we are excited to see how they apply their newfound knowledge in their classrooms.

Moving Forward: Strengthening AAC Advocacy

Each TWINKLE event we conducted this month reaffirmed our belief that creating an inclusive world starts with education and awareness. By working with healthcare professionals, educators, and institutions, we are taking significant steps toward making AAC accessible to more individuals in need.

At Pic-A-Talk, our mission doesn’t stop here. We will continue to expand our reach, conduct more workshops, and collaborate with institutions that share our vision of a more inclusive world. The road ahead is filled with opportunities, and we are committed to ensuring that every child has a voice.

A heartfelt thank you to all the professionals, educators, and institutions who participated in our TWINKLE events this month. Your dedication to learning, growing, and advocating for communication accessibility is what makes a difference in the lives of so many children.

🚀 Together, let’s continue breaking barriers and empowering communication—one conversation at a time!