AAC Basics

October is AAC awareness month! You might be thinking, “I’ve heard the term AAC used often, but what is it?” Let’s break it down and teach you the AAC Basics for you.

AAC Defined:

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is an umbrella term that encompasses the communication methods used to supplement or replace speech or writing for those with impairments in the production or comprehension of spoken or written language.

AAC Types:

  • Low Tech: Pictures, symbols communication books, choice boards, flip boards, core vocabulary boards.
  • Mid-Tech: Voice Output Buttons (i.e., Go Talk 20+ device)
  • High Tech: Dynamic display device (i.e., LAMP, TouchChat, eye gaze system, DynaVox, Nova Chat, Proloquo2Go iPad application) 
Low Tech AAC
Mid Tech AAC
High Tech AAC

 

 

 

 

 

Tips For Using AAC:

  • MODEL: Model expected communication behaviors before expecting to see those behaviors from the student.
  • WAIT: Wait 10-20 seconds (w/ an expectant look) before re-prompting (count in your head)
  • ALLOW: Allow user time to explore and learn their system 
  • MAKE: Make AAC available at all times (for a lot of our students their AAC system is their voice, don’t take their voice away!) 
  • TEACH: Teach language functions including directing, commenting, requesting assistance, etc. (not just wants/needs) 
  • CORE: Provide core words including verbs and describing words (in addition to nouns).  Core words include vocabulary such as:  No, Yes, Want, It, That , My, You, Help, On, Off 
  • FRINGE: Provide fringe words that are individualized based on the communication needs of the individual, more situation specific vocabulary, importance changes from context to context and from person to person (i.e., headphones, crackers, cookies) 

Further Research and Information

Research shows the use of AAC can enhance speech production, or that it would remain the same, but it would never hinder it. AAC use can lead to great strides in speech development. One technique that has proved very helpful when paired with an AAC device is Aided Language Stimulation. This is a language stimulation approach in which the facilitator uses the client’s communication system and repeats it with their verbal language (i.e., communicating with the client using their symbols as much as we talk to them using verbal language). 

This method along with many others are practiced here at our clinic and many others across the country. If you have more questions about AAC Basics or about receiving more help with getting your child to reach new speech milestones, please give us a call at 777-687-9241 or check out our Speech Therapy Page.