Communication does not always happen through spoken words. For some children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), speaking may be difficult or may not be their preferred way of communicating.
Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) can provide children with reliable ways to express their needs, thoughts, feelings, and choices. Rather than focusing only on spoken language, AAC gives children additional ways to connect with the people and world around them.
What Is AAC?
AAC includes different tools and strategies that help a child communicate when spoken language alone does not meet their communication needs.
Low-Tech AAC
Picture cards, printed symbols, visual schedules and communication boards can help children express everyday needs and choices.
High-Tech AAC
Tablets, AAC applications and speech-generating devices can provide children with a larger and more flexible communication system.
How AAC Can Help Children with Autism
AAC can be especially helpful when children become frustrated because they cannot communicate what they want or need.
Finding the Right AAC Approach
Speech-language pathologists assess each child's communication, motor, cognitive, and language abilities to identify appropriate AAC options. Because every child communicates differently, AAC support should be personalized to their individual strengths and needs.
Starting with Core Vocabulary
Speech therapists may begin with useful words that children can use across many different situations.
How Speech Therapists Support AAC
Aided Language Stimulation
Adults model communication using the child's AAC system while speaking, helping the child understand how the system can be used.
Functional Communication
Communication strategies can help children replace frustration or challenging behaviors with meaningful ways to express themselves.
Parents Are an Important Part of AAC Development
Children benefit when AAC becomes part of everyday communication, rather than something used only during therapy sessions.
Personalized AAC Support for Your Child
At SpeechSparkle, our speech-language pathologists can support families with AAC assessment, implementation, device configuration, and ongoing guidance. Our goal is to ensure every child has a dependable way to communicate.
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for Your Child with Autism?
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