Communication is one of the most important skills a child develops. It allows children to express their needs, share their thoughts, build relationships, and participate in daily life. However, not all children communicate using spoken words. For many individuals, communication happens through different methods beyond speech.
This is where Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) becomes essential.
AAC provides a wide range of communication methods that support or replace speech for individuals who have difficulty speaking. It empowers children and adults to communicate effectively with others, express their ideas, and participate more confidently in everyday interactions.
In this guide, we will explore what AAC is, the different types of AAC systems available, how AAC supports language development, and practical tips for parents and caregivers using AAC with children.
What is Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC)?
Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) refers to all the ways people communicate without using spoken words. AAC can be used either as:
An alternative to speech – when a person cannot speak at all.
An augmentation to speech – when a person can speak but needs additional support to communicate clearly and effectively.
AAC includes a variety of tools, strategies, and systems that help individuals express their ideas, wants, needs, feelings, and opinions.
For some individuals, speech alone may not be enough to communicate successfully across different environments, communication partners, or activities. AAC helps bridge this gap by providing additional communication options.
A speech and language therapist (SLT) typically works with individuals and families to assess communication needs and implement the most suitable AAC system.
Forms of AAC Used in Everyday Communication
Many people do not realize that AAC is already part of everyday communication for everyone.
For example, when you send a text message, use emojis, wave to someone, or point at an object you want, you are using a form of AAC.
AAC methods can include both unaided communication (using the body) and aided communication (using tools or devices).
Some common forms of AAC include:
Facial Expressions
Facial expressions communicate emotions such as happiness, frustration, surprise, or confusion. They are often the earliest form of communication children use.
Gestures
Simple gestures like pointing, reaching, nodding, or waving help communicate intentions and requests.
Signing
Sign language or simplified signing systems allow individuals to communicate words through hand movements.
Makaton or Key Word Sign
This is a communication system that uses signs along with speech to support understanding and expression.
Objects
Objects can represent activities or requests. For example, holding a spoon may indicate hunger or mealtime.
Pictures
Pictures or visual symbols help individuals communicate choices, requests, and ideas.
Communication Boards
These boards contain symbols, pictures, or words that users can point to in order to communicate.
Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
PECS allows individuals to exchange pictures to communicate their wants and needs.
Writing or Typing
Some individuals communicate by writing messages or typing on digital devices.
Switches or Switch-Activated Devices
These devices allow users to activate messages or actions using a button or switch.
Eye Gaze Devices
Eye gaze technology tracks eye movement so individuals can select symbols or words on a screen.
Speech Generating Devices (SGDs)
These electronic devices produce spoken words when a user selects symbols, words, or letters.
AAC systems can range from very simple tools to highly advanced technology, depending on the individual’s communication needs.
Why AAC is Important for Communication Development
When a child struggles to communicate, it can lead to frustration, behavioral challenges, and communication breakdowns. AAC helps reduce these difficulties by providing a reliable way for individuals to express themselves.
Research consistently shows that AAC has a significant positive impact on communication development.
AAC can help:
Improve the ability to express needs and ideas
Reduce tantrums and frustration caused by communication difficulties
Increase participation in conversations and social interactions
Support the development of language skills
Improve understanding and expression of language
Create more enjoyable interactions with family and peers
Support learning in school and therapy environments
For many children, AAC becomes a powerful tool that allows them to engage more actively with the world around them.
Does AAC Stop Children from Speaking?
One of the most common concerns parents have is whether using AAC will prevent their child from learning to speak.
Research and clinical experience clearly show that AAC does not stop children from speaking.
In fact, AAC often supports the development of speech and language.
Children and adults naturally choose the easiest and most efficient way to communicate. If speech becomes easier over time, individuals will use it. If another method works better in a certain situation, they may choose that instead.
For example, someone might communicate by:
Speaking
Pointing to a picture
Using a speech device
Reaching for an object
Making a gesture
AAC simply adds more communication options, allowing individuals to express themselves more effectively.
When Should AAC Be Considered?
AAC can benefit children who experience communication challenges due to:
Speech delays
Language disorders
Autism spectrum disorder
Cerebral palsy
Developmental delays
Neurological conditions
Genetic disorders
Motor speech difficulties
If a child has difficulty expressing their wants, needs, or ideas clearly across different environments, an AAC evaluation by a speech and language therapist can help determine the best communication support.
Early introduction of AAC can significantly improve a child’s communication development and reduce frustration.
How Speech and Language Therapists Support AAC
Speech and language therapists play an important role in implementing AAC systems effectively.
They help families by:
Assessing the child’s communication strengths and challenges
Recommending appropriate AAC tools or devices
Teaching families how to model AAC use
Supporting vocabulary development
Training communication partners such as parents, teachers, and caregivers
Adapting the system as the child’s communication skills grow
AAC systems should always be personalized to the child, family, and environment to ensure the best outcomes.
AAC Best Practices: Do’s for Parents and Caregivers
Using AAC effectively requires guidance and consistent practice. Below are some important strategies recommended by speech and language therapists.
Use the AAC system to communicate yourself
Children learn communication by watching others. When parents and caregivers use the AAC system themselves, it shows the child how the system works.
Model communication regularly
Modeling means demonstrating how to use the AAC system during everyday conversations. This helps the child learn how to express ideas using the system.
Provide a rich and comprehensive vocabulary
AAC systems should include a variety of words that allow the child to express more than just basic requests.
Allow sufficient wait time
After asking a question or creating an opportunity for communication, wait 10–20 seconds while looking expectantly at the child. This gives them time to process and respond.
Ask open-ended questions
Encourage communication by asking questions that require more than a yes or no answer.
Create communication opportunities
Set up situations where the child naturally needs to communicate, such as requesting a toy or asking for help.
Follow a prompt hierarchy
Use prompts recommended by the speech therapist, gradually reducing support as the child becomes more independent.
Focus on key words when modeling
Instead of modeling long sentences, emphasize the key words that carry the meaning.
Update vocabulary regularly
As the child’s interests and communication needs change, their AAC vocabulary should also grow.
Teach different communication purposes
Communication is more than requesting. Children should learn to comment, ask questions, express feelings, give directions, and request help.
Ensure AAC is always available
The AAC system should be accessible all day, every day, across home, school, therapy sessions, and social environments.
AAC Mistakes to Avoid: Don’ts for Communication Partners
Just as there are helpful strategies, there are also practices that should be avoided when supporting AAC users.
Do not dominate the conversation
Allow the child opportunities to participate and respond.
Do not expect communication without modeling
Children need to see how AAC works before they can use it independently.
Avoid providing systems with very limited choices
A small number of options restricts the child’s ability to express themselves fully.
Do not ask questions when you already know the answer
This can feel like a test rather than a genuine conversation.
Do not focus only on perfect grammar
AAC communication can be effective even with simple or incomplete sentences.
Avoid excessive prompting
Too many prompts can reduce independence.
Do not force the child to repeat everything on the device
Saying “Now say it on your device” can make communication feel unnatural.
Do not teach only requesting
Communication includes many functions such as commenting, sharing ideas, and expressing emotions.
Do not limit access to the AAC system
AAC devices should not be taken away as a form of control.
Allow exploration and “babbling”
Just like spoken language development, exploring buttons and symbols is an important part of learning.
Do not delete vocabulary unnecessarily
Instead of removing options, guide the child in learning appropriate communication.
Supporting Your Child’s Communication Journey
AAC is not just about devices or pictures. It is about giving individuals a voice and empowering them to connect with others.
When used consistently and supported by caregivers and therapists, AAC can transform a child’s communication abilities and overall quality of life.
Children who use AAC often show improvements in:
Language development
Social interaction
Confidence
Emotional expression
Participation in learning and play
If you believe your child may benefit from AAC, consulting with a speech and language therapist is an important first step.
An assessment can help determine the most suitable communication approach and ensure that the child receives the right support for their communication journey.
Every child deserves the opportunity to communicate their thoughts, ideas, and feelings. AAC makes that possible.