What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)?
What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)?
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AAC is any tool, strategy, or support that allows individuals to independently express their thoughts, ideas, wants/needs, feelings, etc with others. AAC ranges from no-tech to high-tech options that can include gestures, picture communication boards, speech-generating devices, and tangible objects. AAC is augmentative when used to supplement existing speech and alternative when used in place of speech.
An individual is a candidate for AAC if they cannot get their needs met or express themselves 100% of the time using verbal speech alone. Let us help you find the right AAC system for your child!
Common Concerns and Myths Related to AAC
AAC will not impact motivation to use verbal speech! AAC actually allows for greater gains in speech/language development when compared to traditional approaches alone. For some, AAC can be a transitional strategy, for others it may be part of their multi-modal approach to communication.
AAC is for all ages! AAC facilitates language development, independence, self-determination, and social interaction. It takes time and effort to establish AAC as a means of communication, but no one is too "anything" to learn! Early is best, but it's never too late to try.
There are no prerequisites for AAC! Communication is a basic human right! Everyone should have access to tools that allow them to communicate whenever, however, and to whomever they want. Assume competence and never take the ability to communicate away from someone.
AAC allows individuals to establish connections with others, improves their control over their environment, and aides in the development of early communication and literacy skills. Don't wait out your child's speech and language development, consider using AAC today!
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