When an individual is learning to use AAC, rate of access or response time may seem slow. This may be due to unfamiliarity with the system, motor skills, or processing. As you work with the client you will begin to problem solve each of these factors. A strategy that may help everyone, including the user, is to initially make sure each word the individual accesses is speaking, then speak the entire message when done. The sense of engagement will be increased as the communication partner attends to the words being accessed rather than waiting till the message window is accessed. Of course, it is essentially the user’s choice. Always engage the user of AAC in the process of problem-solving issues. Access strategies can change as the user and communication partners develop the needed rapport and trust for successful communication.