Let’s Talk about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Written By Francesca Beard

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is an alternative method of communication that aim to support individuals to communicate and have a voice. AAC can take form in many different methods, e.g. sign, picture exchange-based systems and computer-based technology. Everyone uses multiple forms of communication daily, based on the context and our communication partner. Effective communication occurs when the intent and meaning of one individual are understood by another (often referred to as the communication partner). 

AAC covers a huge range of techniques which support or replace spoken communication.

These include:

  • Gestures

  • Signing

  • Symbols

  • Word boards

  • Computer-based technology

  • Communication boards

  • Communication Books

  • Voice Output Communication Aids (VOCAs) Communication Matters 

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Will the use of AAC stop my child from talking? 

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It is a frequent misconception that children with some verbal language will stop developing this when AAC is introduced. For some children in which verbal language is not a possibility, the use of AAC gives them a voice and an opportunity to communicate in the world. 

There is a lot of evidence to suggest that using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) can support a child verbally acquiring language. There some YouTube links here that might help explain. We take no credit for the youtube videos.

  • This explains what AAC is: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmsdLzQW5G0

  • This explains how AAC can support verbal language to develop: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RjXOgF5Pdw

Francesca Beard
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