Imagine knowing exactly what you want to say but needing to tap through multiple screens to say it. In AAC, quick access to high-frequency words is crucial because they form the backbone of daily communication.
But traditional layouts often force users to jump between folders, disrupting the flow of conversation. That’s where Frozen Row in Avaz AAC changes the game.
What is Frozen Row?
Frozen Row is a fixed strip of core word folders visible at the bottom of every screen. These folders—such as Actions, Describe, People, and Quantities—provide instant access to essential words, making it easier for communicators to express themselves without excessive navigation.
But Frozen Row is more than just a shortcut—it adapts to the user’s needs. Instead of showing the same set of words everywhere, it can be customized based on the context of the current page. For example, the Actions folder on the home screen may contain a broad range of verbs, but when accessed within the Food category, it can display only relevant words like eat and drink, reducing cognitive overload while keeping communication intuitive.
Effortless Conversations, Seamless Navigation
Picture this: A child using AAC wants to talk about soup. Without Frozen Row, they might have to exit the Food page to access words like hot, yummy, or more, disrupting the conversation’s flow. But with Frozen Row, they can stay within the Food page and easily access:
- Describe: “Hot soup” or “Yummy soup”
- Actions: “Eat soup” or “Drink soup”
- Quantities: “More soup” or “Less soup”
By keeping these high-frequency words in a predictable location, Frozen Row ensures that conversations can evolve naturally, without frustrating pauses. This also helps caregivers and therapists model language in a way that is fluid and intuitive.
Why It Matters to Communication Partners
Frozen Row strikes the perfect balance between motor planning and intuitive navigation. It allows AAC users to build muscle memory for core words while also making navigation more logical by grouping related words together.
For SLPs, this means an easier way to encourage language growth. For parents and caregivers, it simplifies modeling—helping them naturally expand a child’s vocabulary during everyday interactions. The ability to customize what appears in Frozen Row based on context ensures that words remain accessible without overwhelming the user.
Conclusion
Frozen Row isn’t just about convenience—it’s about keeping communication within reach. By reducing the need for excessive navigation and ensuring words are available in the right place at the right time, it empowers AAC users to express themselves more freely. Whether you’re a therapist, parent, or communication partner, exploring Frozen Row in Avaz AAC could open new doors for meaningful and effortless conversations.
