Advice for 5 year old grandson

Hello Corrina

You might find that this video helps your son in understanding of the communication needs of his grandfather who had had a laryngectomy:

Communication after laryngectomy.mov

Best wishes

Vinod

It is difficult to predict the outcome of a laryngectomy as far as what methods of communication will work well.
It is important to realise that time will be a factor. Initially after my laryngectomy there were problems in having a telephone conversation. I got round that by using a computer text to speech program and a speakerphone, but it required patience on the part of people I was talking to over the phone.
Laryngectomees vary in terms of the volume of sound they can produce, whatever method of speech they end up deciding is the best for them. I can produce a big volume with either an electrolarynx or my speech valve but I know of (a few) others who struggle to find an easy or reliable method.
Keeping in touch with a grandson will be a very powerful motivator for a laryngectomee to work to get a functional new voice and I really hope for a favourable outcome.
As well as the Speech Therapist, fellow patients can provide valuable support in voice restoration and I recommend your father in law looks for a local laryngectomee club.