Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a way for an individual to communicate by using alternative methods. Read on to learn about the benefits of AAC and debunk some of its common myths.
What is AAC?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It includes pictures, communication books, signs, gestures, symbol boards, speech generated devices, or a combination of these modalities.
Who uses AAC?
People of all ages benefit from the use of a communication device. In this blog post, I will discuss AAC as it relates to children. All behaviors are communication based. I believe that providing children with a voice and a way for them to express their thoughts is a way to decrease their frustration.
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Personal Story
Before reading the common myths about AAC, I’d like to share my personal story. My son has autism and I was able to use my expertise as a Speech Language Pathologist and knowledge of AAC to help him communicate. Starting at age two, I introduced an iPad with an AAC app. My son was able to express his thoughts, ideas, love, opinions, and so much more. I saw a significant decrease in his overall frustration when he was able to communicate. I learned from my son that children just want to be acknowledged.
I understand the total isolation that you feel as a parent when you start to wonder… Will my child ever talk? I know what it feels like to watch helplessly as your child becomes frustrated or has a meltdown because they are unable to communicate how they feel.
Now after early interventions (and working with him at home), my son is able to communicate without using a device. It is important to remember that everyone’s journey with AAC is unique and my experience may not mirror your own. It is also important to consult with your chid’s pediatrician if you have concerns. However, I’d like this to be a message of hope to other parents going through the same thing. Know that things will get better. The ultimate goal, is to provide a way for your child to communicate so that they do not become frustrated.
RELATED: Embracing Autism Podcast Interview on AAC🎙️
Want more practical tips on AAC? I had the honor of being a guest on the top 1.5% podcast Embracing Autism. Click the link to listen to the full interview.
Common Myths About AAC
1. AAC will stop my child from talking.
AAC does NOT prevent your child from talking or using their words. This is a very common misconception. Instead, it is a way for children to express their thoughts, wants, and needs. In fact, AAC often increases your child’s verbalizations. Many parents worry that using AAC will discourage their child from talking. However, AAC teaches children that their words are valuable and have meaning. Therefore, it encourages them to want to communicate.
2. AAC will delay my child’s language development.
In fact, AAC will actually increase your child’s language skills. They work on their receptive language by requesting and their expressive language by stating their wants/needs. Especially with speech generated devices, it’s a good idea to have your child make simple sentences when requesting items. For example, instead of selecting “Cookies,” encourage your child to select “I want cookies” or “More cookies please.” By using this strategy, when a child starts to verbalize, it increases their utterances. It encourages them to use phrases, simple sentences, and helps foster their language development.
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3. Only nonverbal children use AAC.
AAC is not just for children that are completely nonverbal. A very common misconception is that if a child is “talking” then they don’t need AAC. However, it they aren’t effectively communicating, this could lead to communication breakdowns and lots of frustration. AAC can be used with all children that are unable to effectively communicate their needs. Even if a child has a few words or rote phrases, they still benefit greatly from using alternative communication. If your child is unable to state their wants/needs, say how they feel, tell you if they are sick, et cetera; then AAC helps them communicate.
4. I know what my child wants; they don’t need AAC.
As parents, we become great at being intuitive and anticipating our child’s needs. We’ve been anticipating their needs since the day they were born. However, it’s also equally as important to give your child a voice. AAC helps your child make their own choices, decisions, and to be more independent. Also, keep in mind that your child is not with you all of the time. AAC helps your child communicate in a variety of settings outside of the home.
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5. AAC is a last resort to intervention.
AAC is not something to try when all else fails. It is actually one of the first steps when a child is delayed with their speech and language skills. It teaches children how to communicate, express themselves, and it increases positive social interactions. In fact, AAC provides your child with the ability to start communicating right away. It will increase your child’s self-esteem and help improve their communication skills overall.
Conclusion
I’m very passionate about AAC and I believe that it provides children with a voice. Studies show that using AAC helps with language development, increasing social skills, and building positive self-esteem. It is important to remember that children just want to be acknowledged and they want to be heard. When AAC is provided at an early age, it helps children develop their overall language skills. Providing children with a voice helps decrease their frustration and it fosters independence. If you are interested in AAC for your child, then contact your school’s Speech Language Pathologist.
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