10 Easy-To-Follow Tips For Using AAC Communication Boards (from a speech therapist)
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
This post is all about AAC Communication Boards
Using AAC Communication boards (augmentative and alternative communication devices) is... not... a magical quick fix to speaking. The process is long, hard and very rewarding! As a seasoned speech therapist, I am learning new things about AAC all the time! The number one rule: DO NOT BE INTIMIDATED. Literally push buttons, play around with it, learn how to program personalized pictures into it and have fun!
AAC Communication Boards Tip 1: Bedazzle it (not literally)
The augmentative and alternative communication devices should be personalized. I strongly believe that adding picture of your loved ones favorite things, especially things they want access to, will make a huge difference. This may be a certain type of creamer for the coffee, their favorite shirt (the old one with holes that has escaped its destiny of landing in the trash- yea that one) or their favorite SONG (you can even pair the button with youtube so it automatically pops up.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication Devices Tip 2: High or Low Tech?
I used to think super low tech or super high tech augmentative and alternative communication devices were the way to go but there is an IN BETWEEN. Something like a go-talk can be a great system to use. It lessens the visual field and can be super helpful for some users.
Alternative and Augmentative Communication Systems Tip 3: Charger
Buy a backup charger, pretty please with a cherry on top. SO many AAC users face the dreaded "well my battery is dead" so that's ... that. It's 2026. People are flying to outer space for leisure.
Alternative Augmentative Communication Tip 4: Have fun
For a fun activity, watch a TV show together and stop to talk about the plot. You can name items in the show, colors, feelings of the people, practice typing out words. This one is fun and interactive. Pick your loved ones favorite show.
Augmentative Communication Boards Tip 5: Make Mistakes
It's OK to push the wrong buttons on your alternative and augmentative communication systems, to make mistakes, to explore. This is what the device is for. Everything doesn't have to be so rigid and correct.
Augmentative Communication Devices Tip 6: Model Without Pressure
This means you use the device as well. In the conversation, use the device to express your feelings and thoughts. This serves as a model while placing no demand on your loved one to always be "doing something."
Alternative Augmentative Communication Tip 7: Make it Awkward
Leave an uncomfortably long amount of pause time between asking for something from your loved one. This "awkward" silence allows the space, time and clartity to process the information being asked of them. You can even say, I am going to wait 25 seconds before jumping in to help you so you can set the stage.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (aac) Devices Tip 8: Routines Are Key
Build a routine using the AAC device. Pull it out at times that are fitting, maybe a little snack sesh on the couch while watching a show? Talk about the different foods you have laid out and pause the show to speak about what is happening. Dedicate a weekly time for this!
AAC Communication Board Tip 9: Make it Safe
Some of the more high-tech devices are fragile. Get a cover and use a strap to ensure adequate protection.
Alternative Augmentative Communication Device Tip 10: It Takes a Village
Parents, siblings, teachers, aides, grandparents and the next door neighbor, Fran. Everyone should know basic navigation. AAC users struggle when only one person knows how to use it. It should becomes a shared language.
For Additional AAC Communication Board Tips Check Out What ASHA (American Speech Language Hearing Association) Has To Say:
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Serving you speech tips with a side of sarcasm