Communication is a vital part of daily life, but it can be harder for some children to master. If your child has a condition that impacts their ability to communicate with others, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) may be the perfect solution. Keep reading to learn what AAC is, who might need it, and how speech-language pathologists can help your child learn to use it.
What Is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)?
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to a set of tools and strategies that support or replace verbal communication. It’s designed to help people who have difficulty with verbal speech or are unable to rely on spoken language alone. AAC can range from sign language to writing, specialized communication devices, and more.
Why Would My Child Need AAC?
Children who struggle to communicate their ideas can get frustrated or feel ashamed, but AAC gives them the tools they need to be able to share their thoughts, feelings, and desires with other people more easily. It is a fantastic tool that has helped children with many different conditions, such as:
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Cerebral palsy
- Speech or language delays
- Speech disorders
- Brain injury
- And more
What Are the Types of AAC?
With AAC, verbal communication can be augmented (supported) or alternative (replaced) depending on each child’s specific needs. Some common types of AAC include:
- Picture communication systems that use images or symbols to represent words or concepts
- Communication boards with symbols or words that can be pointed to or touched
- Electronic devices that produce speech sounds based on user input
- Sign language that uses hand gestures and facial expressions instead of verbal speech
- Writing or drawing the ideas one wants to communicate
Pediatric Speech Therapy for AAC
Our pediatric speech-language pathologists can help children learn and use AAC effectively. This can be a temporary solution while your child is working on their speech and language skills in therapy, or it can be the ideal overall solution for your child’s unique needs. Speech-language pathologists can help your child master AAC by:
- Evaluating your child’s needs and customizing AAC solutions
- Teaching your child how to use AAC tools and integrating them into daily life
- Equipping your family with the knowledge to support your child’s communication
- Collaborating with occupational therapists to enhance overall communication skills
Schedule an Evaluation
If your child is struggling with communication due to a developmental delay or other condition, Little Hands at Play is here to help. Call us at (479) 226-3409 to schedule an evaluation with our experienced speech-language pathologists today. Together, we can empower your child to express their ideas more easily through augmentative and alternative communication.
