Augmentative and Alternative Communication for Children

There are many ways we can communicate with the world around us, other than verbally speaking. These methods are helpful to individuals who may have trouble verbally or ‘expressively’ communicating.  Augmentative/Alternative Communication or “AAC” is one of those ways.  AAC methods allow individuals, especially children, to communicate. 

AAC devices range from low-tech to high-tech devices. AAC systems may be utilized for children with autism, apraxia, or other speech and language delays. The type of system or device your child may need may depend on their needs and what works best for them.

AAC devices/systems come in many forms.  There are low-tech or no-tech AAC systems that may consist of pointing to pictures on a piece of paper, sign language, writing or drawing, or even a binder with pictures that help them express what they need such as yes, no, help, eat, and more. 

On the other end, there are high-tech devices specially made for communication. They usually consist of touch screen devices that allow for customization and the ability to adapt to each user. 

For these high-tech devices, technology companies have designed programs and applications in order to implement communication programs.  This technology may be downloaded to tablets, computers or even phones. 

When choosing the proper system that will work for your child, you may be referred to a speech language pathologist (SLP). An SLP can help find the right system to help your child that is both an age appropriate system, and a developmentally appropriate system for your little one. 

When beginning to explore if an AAC device would be a good fit for your child, a speech language pathologist at Champion Pediatric Therapy would complete an assessment to help identify the child’s strengths, weaknesses and implement an AAC device that may best fit the child’s needs. 

Once a method is selected, the speech language pathologist will then help the child navigate their AAC device or system and show them how to use it through regular speech therapy sessions.  Together, they will review and explore the device, teaching them the functions of it.  For low-tech systems, the speech language pathologist and child will work together to implement use of printed pictures or even sign language to communicate their wants and needs. 

Along with this it is important to practice your AAC system with your child as well as becoming familiar with whichever system they use. This allows you to be aware of their communication device and allows you to communicate effectively with your child. This may consist of learning how to navigate their AAC devices and learning the different buttons or learning different signs if they communicate with sign language. 

In order to allow these devices and systems to be effective there must be effort put in from all those involved. Expanding a child’s ability to communicate opens a whole new world for their independence and learning. When AAC systems are implemented, they should be utilized as much as possible to encourage the use and learning. AAC devices are great tools to help children communicate and express themselves to the world around them! Talk to a Speech Language Pathologist at Champion Pediatric Therapy to help begin your child’s AAC journey!