Using AAC for language development
What is AAC?
If you’ve ever heard the term AAC and wondered what it means, you’re not alone. AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It’s a big phrase, but simply put, it’s any tool that helps someone communicate when speech isn’t enough.
For some children, this could mean using a picture exchange communication system (PECS) to ask for what they need. For others, it might mean using an iPad app that speaks aloud when they tap a symbol. AAC can be as simple as American Sign Language, or as high-tech as a speech-generating device. The goal is the same: helping your child be heard.
AAC & Total Communication
Think of AAC as part of a “total communication” approach. Total Communication is a method of encouraging language development by any means available.That means your child can use every tool available — talking, gestures, facial expressions, PECS, or a device — to share their thoughts.
Autistic children often have relative strengths in visual contexts, and respond well to pictures when verbal language is too complex. A speech-pathologist uses total communication to allow your child to explore many ways of communicating, including waving, pointing, sign language, picture-exchange, communication boards or a high-tech devices on tablets. Research has shown that by lowering frustration and giving your child a way to express themselves, AAC often helps verbal speech develop naturally over time.
Myths About AAC
There are a lot of myths about AAC, and they can hold families back from getting started. Let’s clear up a few:
“AAC will stop my child from talking.” Actually, the opposite is true — AAC encourages speech.
“It’s only for kids who don’t talk at all.” Even kids who say some words benefit from AAC.
“It’s too early to start.” Research shows the earlier, the better. Waiting only delays communication.
“What if I choose the wrong program?” The program you choose is just one piece. Modeling, consistency, and encouragement matter just as much. Read more about how to introduce new words and topics on your child’s device in fun and motivating ways:
Which is the Best Device for My Child?
Parents often ask, “Where do I start?” “Which AAC device is the best?” The truth is, there isn’t one perfect device that works for every child. The best AAC system depends on your child’s needs, learning style, and daily environment.
Some kids thrive with a simple picture-based system, while others do best with an iPad app or a dedicated speech-generating device. The good news is, you don’t have to figure it out alone. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) trained in AAC can help guide you through trials and match your child with the right fit.
Want to see some comparisons? These short videos explain the pros and cons of different ipad-based AAC programs:
AAC Device Comparisons by Louisiana AEM
AAC Device Comparisons by Lily’s Voice Inc
Set up for Success
Once you have chosen your device, make sure that your family is ready to implement it. Everyone who may be around the child should be familiar with how it works, have it out and available all the time, and use it consistently throughout the day. Remember, this is your child’s voice—you don’t want her to be without it when she needs it! Imagine if you were only able to express your thoughts for very short time periods during the day? It would lead to frustration and ultimately the device would not be a successful communication tool.
Here are some pro-tips for success:
Buy a durable case that is drop-proof, water-resistant and can stand up.
Spend some time (or LOTS of time) programming the device for your family’s needs.
This could mean taking pictures of your child’s favorite foods and adding them to the ipad or laminating them and adding them to a communication binder. Be sure to include vocabulary for whatever your child is interested in!
Create a routine of using it for meal-times and story-times. Daily use of the same words and pictures will ensure memorization and can be fun! For example, include the words ‘yummy!’ or ‘I don’t like this!’ to use during meals.
Make a back up, in case of emergencies. You can screen shot the front page of the speech generating device, or make a smaller laminated folder with the essential words for the car or to leave a grandma’s house. This website has lots of pre-made communication boards that you can print and laminate on your own. Here is an example, below.
