Get to know: Speech Pathologist Jenna

At Kids Plus we have so many passionate staff members who work across a number of disciplines. In this article, get to know why Speech Pathologist Jenna chose this career, what she loves about working at Kids Plus and what interests she has outside of work.What made you decide to pursue this line of work?I always wanted to get into a profession that helped people by teaching them skills they could use in their everyday life. I quickly realised that "Speechies" have all the fun - playing games, chatting and eating - so that also helps!Can you please tell us a bit about your role at Kids Plus and some of the things you look after.I am one of the Speech Pathologists at Kids Plus. I work with a range of children and young adults who need support developing their communication skills including those who are not currently verbal or who are minimally verbal and use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).I am really passionate about using all forms of AAC including key word sign, low and high tech communication systems to help children and young adults express themselves to the people around them. A big part of making this successful is teaching communication partners how to use and model their child or young adults' system and developing a greater awareness in the wider community.What do you love about working at Kids Plus?I love all the families I work with; we develop really special bonds at important times in their child or young adult's life. I also enjoy working with the skilled therapy team at Kids Plus and having everyone understand the importance of communication and celebrating those exciting communication goals and milestones.What have been some highlights for you since working at Kids Plus?I have so many. A highlight is always seeing a client achieve their communication goals. I work with a young boy who chose his own communication device after trialling a few. He is now becoming an impressive AAC user and to be a small part of that is really rewarding. He has been able to tell jokes, stories and express his opinions.I really love working with early communicators who are just exploring how they can influence their world through communication. It's exciting when they realise that communication can be powerful and meaningful for them.Another highlight was going to ISAAC (International Society for AAC) conference in Queensland in 2018 and being with like-minded Speech Pathologists from around the world.Outside of Kids Plus, what do you enjoy doing?I enjoy walking my dog Harvey (he is the cutest!), going stand up paddle-boarding and watching reality TV.How would your friends describe you in three words?Compassionate, adventurous and great dancer.Read more stories on our families and staff here.