What is AAC?
- AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication
- It is any form of communication that does not involve verbal speech
- Examples: gestures, facial expressions, pointing, writing, sign language, core boards, or a tablet with a communication app (e.g. LAMP, TouchChat, Proloquo)
- There are no pre-requisites for AAC and children at any skill or ability level can learn and benefit from using it
WHY AAC?
- Words are fleeting, some children are visual learners and need a visual representation of language
- AAC gives the child a means to communicate and have control over his environment
- Even though you may be able to understand your child and anticipate her needs, your child needs a consistent way to communicate with people at school and in his community to gain independence
WILL AAC PREVENT MY CHILD FROM USING HIS/HER VOICE?
- Research shows that AAC does not hinder verbal speech and only enhances the child’s understanding and use of language (ASHA- AAC Evidence Map, 2020)
- Every child’s path of development is different: some children use AAC and gain verbal language, while others use it as a lifelong tool to communicate
WHERE CAN I GET AAC?
- You can find paper core boards to print and use at the following website:
- If you are interested in AAC and trialing a communication app, talk to your speech-language pathologist here at Therapy at Play who can help you find a system that works best for your child
OTHER RESOURCES:
- Aided Language Modeling: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=flFNMky22-U&t=3s
- What are core words: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UG5JeH2H_OY&t=38s
- Modeling with a core board: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b-aam4LI3kc&t=109s