Augmentative and Alternative Communication: What Parents Should Know

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Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to all the ways people communicate other than using spoken words. It is a set of tools and strategies used to supplement (augment) or replace (alternative) speech for individuals who have difficulty speaking clearly or producing speech at all. For parents, understanding AAC is the first step toward unlocking their child’s communication potential and reducing the frustration often associated with speech difficulties.



What is AAC?

AAC encompasses a wide variety of methods, from simple gestures to high-tech devices. The purpose of AAC is to provide the individual with the most effective and efficient way to communicate their needs, thoughts, ideas, and feelings to anyone, anywhere.

AAC systems are broadly categorized into two types:

1. Unaided AAC

These methods require nothing external; they use only the person's own body.

  • Examples: Gestures, facial expressions, body language, and Sign Language (like American Sign Language or various regional sign systems).

2. Aided AAC

These methods involve the use of tools or equipment. Aided AAC is further divided based on technology:

  • Low-Tech/No-Tech: Simple, non-electronic tools.

    • Examples: Picture cards, communication boards/books, letter boards, written words, and drawing.

  • High-Tech: Electronic systems that produce speech.

    • Examples: Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs), often customized tablets with specialized software (like Proloquo2Go or TouchChat), which allow the user to select symbols or type words to have a message spoken aloud.

Who Benefits from AAC?

AAC is not limited to a single diagnosis. Any child whose speech does not meet their communication needs can benefit. Common conditions include:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Many children with ASD benefit from the visual and concrete nature of AAC.

  • Developmental Apraxia of Speech (DAS): Difficulty with the motor planning needed for speech production.

  • Cerebral Palsy (CP): Physical limitations that affect the muscles used for speaking.

  • Genetic Syndromes: Conditions like Down syndrome or Rett syndrome that may impact speech.

  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Acquired communication difficulties.

How Parents Can Support AAC Use 

  • Encourage daily practice 

  • Model AAC use in everyday activities 

  • Celebrate progress, even small wins 

Parents can explore InclusiveSpeak’s AAC learning resources for tools that make communication easier and more engaging at home. 

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) gives children who struggle with speech new ways to express themselves. Whether your child uses gestures, pictures, or electronic devices, AAC ensures that their voice is always heard. 

Why It’s Important 

Without communication, children may feel frustrated or isolated. AAC helps them connect with family, teachers, and peers, promoting independence and confidence. 


Why Parents Should Embrace AAC

Many parents worry that introducing AAC will hinder their child’s efforts to speak. Research, however, consistently demonstrates the opposite.

1. It Does Not Hinder Speech

Studies show that AAC often supports or increases natural speech production. By reducing communication frustration and providing a clear language model (the device speaks the words clearly), AAC can help bridge the gap toward verbal communication.

2. Reduces Frustration and Challenging Behavior

The inability to communicate is a primary driver of tantrums and behavioral issues. Providing a reliable means of expression gives the child a functional communication alternative, leading to less frustration and better emotional regulation.

3. Fosters Language Development

AAC provides a visual and auditory reinforcement of language concepts. When a child selects a symbol for "apple" and the device says "apple," they are building receptive (understanding) and expressive (using) language connections.

4. Promotes Independence and Self-Advocacy

AAC allows a child to initiate conversations, ask questions, make choices, and direct their own activities. This sense of agency is crucial for developing self-esteem and navigating social situations with confidence.

Implementation

The journey with AAC should always begin with professional guidance.

1. Consult an SLP

A Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) specializing in AAC will conduct a thorough assessment of your child’s motor, cognitive, and language skills to determine the most appropriate system.

2. Start Simple and Build

Therapy often begins with a focus on core vocabulary, the small set of high-frequency words (like "more," "go," "want," "help") that make up most of daily conversation. It’s important to give the child access to a large vocabulary from the start, even if they only use a few words initially.

3. Modeling is Key 

Parents and caregivers must become proficient users of the system themselves. This technique, called Aided Language Input (ALI) or Aided Language Stimulation (ALS), involves the partner pointing to the symbols on the child's board or device while they speak. This models how to use the system functionally.

4. Integrate into Daily Life

AAC is most effective when it’s used all the time, everywhere. It needs to be available during playtime, meals, trips to the park, and bedtime routines. Communication is constant, and so must be the tool.

FAQs:

1. What is the single biggest mistake parents make with AAC?

The biggest mistake is not modeling the device/system enough. Parents need to use the AAC system to communicate with the child (ALI/ALS) to show them how to use it functionally and fluently.

2. Does my child need to understand the pictures before we start using a device?

No. Your child doesn't need "readiness skills." Communication is learned by communicating. The AAC system should be introduced as early as possible and taught through functional use and modeling.

3. How do we choose between a low-tech board and a high-tech device?

An SLP assessment considers factors like motor skills (can they point accurately?), visual skills, the complexity of communication needs, and funding. Often, a low-tech backup is recommended even when a high-tech device is used.

4. Will AAC make my child look different or weird to their peers?

While it may draw attention initially, children are generally accepting. More importantly, the ability to communicate effectively dramatically outweighs any fleeting social concerns. Many peers find the devices engaging and quickly adapt to their use.

5. Are there different communication styles for AAC?

Yes. Some children primarily request (ask for things), while others learn to comment ("pretty!"), protest ("no!"), or engage in social greetings. Therapy helps a child develop a robust range of communicative functions.

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