7 Ways To Make Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Work For You And Your Family

This post is about augmentative and alternative communication

 As a speech therapist for over 14+ years, my mission is to provide effective and accessible speech therapy resources.  I have trained numerous clients and families on using augmentative and alternative communication devices.

Augmentative and alternative communication devices are ways to enhance children's language that have expressive language deficits. This could mean using a program on an ipad, laminated cards, eye gaze systems or any alternative means to communicate.

Here are the top 7 tips I tell each familiy about using an AAC device.

Augmentative And Alternative Communication Tip # 1:

Always start with something motivating when they are learning how to use the communication system. This could be a special snack or access to a youtube video.

Augmentative And Alternative Communication Tip #2:

Present the item immediately after the child's request. This will help them realize that by participating, they can get immediate access to their favorite things!

Augmentative And Alternative Communication Tip #3:

Ask questions to the speech therapist helping your child with the AAC device. The communication system is going to be used primarily at home since that is where the child spends most of their time.

It is meant to help YOU and your child communicate, not for the lines of communication to open up with the speech therapist and then close off at home.

Augmentative And Alternative Communication Tip #4:

Advocate. Let the professionals know where you need the most help with communication at home. Where are the breakdowns occuring?

This will help guide the treatment plan and will help the therapist know what words to program on the device.

Augmentative And Alternative Communication Tip #5:

This communication system is not meant to REPLACE language but rather enhance it.

Just because your child is using an AAC (alternative augmentative communication) device does not mean you can not also pair these words with verbal language and/or gestures. When using the device you can work on both simultaneously!

Augmentative And Alternative Communication Tip #6:

Pay attention to the cues your child is giving you.

Do they seem confused about the amount of buttons? (reduce the buttons on the screen) Do they seem uninterested? (shorten the sessions and increase the motivating factor by incorporating something exciting like access to M$M's or their favorite snack)

Augmentative And Alternative Communication Tip # 7

There is no magic fix. This is a way to enhance communication with your child and learn more about what they are thinking.

Be forewarned the process is long and laborous so keep your expectations in reality, take it slow, enjoy each moment of watching your child learn how to express themselves in a new and innovative way.

AAC Video

Troubleshooting:

Scenario: My child can't talk has has limited movements

✅ Look into partner assisted scanning

Scenario: I am worried that this device will replace their ability to speak verbally someday

✅ There is no research to suggest that using a device will inhibit your child's ability to speak verbally. Make sure when using the device to pair the picture icons with verbal words and/or signs.

Scenario: The communication board below has too many options and it is too confusing for my child

✅ Cut it up into squares and start with one choice only (i.e. food). When your child touches the food card or looks at it reward them with their favorite snack. Gradually bring in two choices.

Scenario: Where can I start?

✅ If this whole process is intimidating start with the "yes" card below indicated by a check mark. Or write yes on a piece of paper. Then ask them something you know they want and have them touch or look at the yes card to receive said item.

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Free Communication Board To Get You Started!

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Thanks for reading this post about augmentative and alternative communication

Let’s build a world where all individuals are supported by an empowered community committed to nurturing communication development.​