AAC & Communication Devices
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) gives a voice to children who need support beyond verbal speech, from simple picture cards to sophisticated speech-generating devices.
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AAC Does Not Prevent Speech Development
A common concern is that using AAC will prevent a child from learning to talk. Research consistently shows the opposite is true. AAC supports verbal speech development. Many children increase their verbal output after starting AAC.
AAC removes the communication barrier, reducing frustration and giving children successful experiences with communication. This motivation often supports speech development rather than replacing it. There are no prerequisites for AAC. A child doesn't need to "fail" at speech first.
Every child deserves a way to communicate right now, whatever form that takes.
What is AAC?
Augmentative and Alternative Communication includes any tool or strategy that supports communication beyond verbal speech. "Augmentative" means supplementing existing speech; "alternative" means replacing speech when needed.
No-Tech AAC
Sign language, gestures, communication boards, and picture cards that don't require electronic devices.
Low-Tech AAC
Simple voice-output devices (like Big Mack switches), picture exchange systems (PECS), and communication books.
High-Tech AAC
Speech-generating devices and apps on tablets (like Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, LAMP) with robust vocabulary.
Who Benefits from AAC?
AAC can help any child whose verbal speech isn't reliably meeting their communication needs. There's no minimum age, cognitive level, or other prerequisite.
The right AAC system depends on your child's motor abilities, cognitive and language skills, and communication needs. We help you find the best fit through careful assessment and trials.
AAC May Help If Your Child...
- Children with limited or no verbal speech
- Children with autism who need communication support
- Children with apraxia of speech or severe speech sound disorders
- Children with Down syndrome or other genetic conditions
- Children with cerebral palsy or motor disorders
- Children who have some speech but can't reliably communicate all needs
- Any child whose verbal speech isn't meeting their communication needs
Our AAC Services
We provide comprehensive AAC services from evaluation through ongoing implementation support.
What to Expect
From evaluation to implementation, we guide you through the AAC process.
AAC Evaluation
We assess your child's communication needs, motor abilities, cognitive and language skills, and current communication methods to recommend appropriate AAC options.
Feature Matching
We match AAC features to your child's abilities, considering motor skills, vision, language level, and how they'll use AAC in daily life.
Device Trials
Before committing to a system, we trial different options. This helps ensure the chosen AAC is the best fit for your child.
Implementation
We teach your child to use AAC functionally, starting with motivating, high-frequency words and building from there.
Partner Training
AAC works best when communication partners model its use. We train parents, siblings, teachers, and anyone who communicates with your child.
Ongoing Support
As your child grows, AAC needs evolve. We provide ongoing support, programming updates, and goal adjustments.
Considering AAC for Your Child?
Schedule a free consultation to discuss your child's communication needs and learn whether AAC could help them find their voice.
Schedule Free Consultation