Our 321go Kids Team

Allison Ayote

Speech Language Pathology Assistant

Not having access to communication makes lots of kids frustrated but when they find an outlet, the kids' entire world changes for them.

When did you first know you wanted to pursue a career in therapy? When I was a little kid I needed speech therapy so my whole life I was stuck deciding between speech and OT. However, after job shadowing at 321 go kids in high school through the career center, I fell in love with the idea of being a speech therapist.

Who inspires you in your profession? Since this is my first job post graduation, I have really leaned on the other members of the speech team to teach me and show me the ropes of pediatric therapy here at 321 go kids. My speech team does an amazing job at celebrating the victories of the children as well as celebrating the victories of the therapist’s which is not common in most work places. I admire how my speech team plays with the kids and is creative with the way to deliver speech therapy.

What is your favorite way to engage with kids? My favorite way to engage with the kids here is to play with them as if I am also a kid. Adults can be scary for some kids so meeting the kids where they are and playing with them at their level is what makes the best connections for me. Kids learn best through play so when I meet the kids where they are, I am able to now help them learn rather than just drilling words . I love running through the hallways with the kids, whether that means calling them ‘Super …’ because they just hero’d up and have a cape and mask on or hopping like a frog out the door to prevent becoming upset, I love the movement of the job.

Tell us about a challenge that you watched a child overcome? I have had the pleasure of watching many kids gain access to communication for the first time ever whether that be through verbal language, sign language, or an AAC device. Not having access to communication makes lots of kids frustrated but when they find an outlet, the kids' entire world changes for them. My favorite is when a kid is just as proud of themselves as we are and seeing the kid light up is an amazing sight to see.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work? I enjoy spending time with my niece and cat outside of work. Watching a movie at home in my pajamas is my perfect kind of night.