Frequent Questions about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Talking is only 1 way of communicating. Augmentative (awg-MENTuh-tiv) and alternative communication are ways a person can communicate other than speech. These may include:

• Body language (like nodding, shrugging, or pointing)
• Sign language
• Picture and symbol boards
• Electronic devices - computers, mobile technology, voice-output devices
• Reading and writing

These can add to and help (augment) how a child communicates. Every family finds a mix that works well for them.

• If your child doesn’t speak, AAC systems can help. They can act as a bridge until speech develops, augment what speech is present, or provide an alternative if your child does not develop speech.
• Your child’s speech and language therapist can help you decide what kind of AAC is best.
• Being able to communicate is important to a full and meaningful life. Expressing needs, wants, ideas and sharing fun and sorrow are basic human needs at all ages. Being able to express themselves allows your child to connect with others.
• There is a great deal of learning and development that takes place in your child’s early years. It is important to give children with speech difficulties ways to communicate to support the skills they do have. 

You may understand your child. But many of the people in your child’s life and community may not. You will not always be there to translate for your child. Being able to communicate with other people is a big part of your child’s life. It is also a safety issue. Your child should have opportunities to communicate not just with adults but with other children and friends.

No. If your child uses signs, a device, pictures or symbols, it will not stop or slow down their speech growth. In fact, it might even help your child talk more. AAC methods offer your child useful language tools and are fun. When your child and family use AAC, it can remove emotional pressure and frustration. As a result, talking can increase. Research shows AAC supports spoken language by increasing interaction, language skills and providing a model for speech.

Talking isn’t an either-or question and labeling a child as “nonverbal” does not mean that your child cannot use speech for any type of communication. The more severe a child’s motor limitations, mainly in how they start and control fine movements, the more likely that child will continue to have difficulty in controlling the fine coordinated movements needed for speech. Children’s motor systems develop in ways that we can’t always predict. Don’t give up on further improvement in speech skills early in your child’s life.

Many teachers have found that speaking friends and classmates are very interested in AAC systems. Schools encourage their use. This can be a real boost to your child’s self-esteem.

Think of the AAC system your family uses as your child’s voice. It should be available to use whenever they want it. For some families, using the AAC system may be awkward and inconvenient at first. But after time it will become integrated into your family life. Ask your speech therapist for tips on how to start using it at home and school.