What is AAC?
AAC, augmentative or alternative communication, is all of the ways an individual can communicate in addition to or instead of speaking. This can include gestures, pictures, or high tech communication devices such as iPads with communication applications.
Who is AAC for?
Any person who may not be able to effectively communicate. This could mean an individual who is completely non-speaking. However, AAC can also be for someone who is unable to communicate effectively when in a stressful situation. It could also be for someone who needs to repair oral speech communication breakdowns.
Why should I try AAC?
Here are answers to questions from my clients who have started using AAC with their child!
What do you wish you would have known at the beginning of your AAC journey?
“I wish I knew that my child would learn to be so comfortable with the device.”
“How much it would help him.”
“That it may seem like there is not a lot of progress at times, but to hang in there and keep modeling for your child.”
“That it wasn’t a leap of faith, that it was a possibility for my child when SLPs in the past indicated she would t be successful due to lack of fine motor skills.”
What have you been able to learn about your child that you didn't know before they had access to AAC?
“I learned that my child learns best through exploration and coaching. She does not want to be hand held.”
“How very smart my child is.”
“So much!! My son wants so badly to have a voice and be part of the conversation. He is also Mr. independent and wants you to know exactly what he is thinking.”
“That my child was capable of SO MUCH MORE language and approximations/limitations!”
“The benefits of video modeling and the connections that can be made using the AAC device. I have been impressed with his ability to start navigating on his own a little. I wouldn’t have thought that he would be capable given how young he is. It excites us to think we may have something to help support his communication and ability to share experiences sooner than we anticipated.”
“That he is very capable of learning new things that seem complicated.”
What is your favorite part about using AAC with your child?
“I feel like I’m hearing his voice for the first time, we are able to connect in a different way! It has helped bridge the gap sooo much for frustration on both ends.”
“The possibilities and growth potential are endless, I love seeing her confidence grow in her language and communication skills.”
“I love the chains of conversation we can have now instead of just requesting food.”
What would be one piece of advice you would give to parents at the beginning of the AAC journey?
“Keep going!!! Don’t think after 1, 2 or even 5 weeks that it’s not helping or working. My son is one year in and he’s still learning. And put some fun modeled videos on the device. Talk about those videos it helps get them interested in the device. Even favorite cartoon characters.”
“To hang in there and keep moving forward. There will be days where you feel like there is little to no progress being made, but there is! They are soaking up and taking everything in!”
“Be patient. We have spent so much time going off of our kiddos nonverbal communication that it can be overwhelming letting them experiment on the AAC device but that is how speech is from the start. Always remember, it is THEIR voice.”
How do I get started?
To get started on high tech AAC, you will need an iPad and some kind of communication app. If you need help deciding which app would be the best fit for your child, I recommend scheduling a consultation.
There are sales for AAC apps going on this month!
April 16-23 Proloquo2Go is 50% off!
https://www.assistiveware.com/blog/autism-acceptance-month-discount-2024
April 24 to May 7, you can get 50% on PRC-Saltillo’s TouchChat®, LAMP Words for Life®, and Dialogue® AAC!
https://www.prc-saltillo.com/articles/2024-App-Sale-FAQs?mode=view
TD Snap is always only $49.99
https://us.tobiidynavox.com/products/td-snap
If you’re interested in starting out with AAC or getting support with your child’s current AAC device, please reach out. We are here to support your child’s communication growth and to empower you with strategies to support them at home.
You can email me at mackenzie@communicationblooms.org to set up a consultation.
Please visit our website for more information www.communicationblooms.org
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