Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Non-speaking children or children with extensive language difficulties may need to find others ways to communicate besides talking. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) describes all the different methods, devices, or strategies for communication besides talking. Some students may need it for a short time (e.g. as a result of a surgery), while others may need it as a long-term accommodation.

Lesson 1: BPS offers AAC Evaluation even if it is not advertised to parents. If a child is non-speaking when entering BPS it is important for parents to know that this option and this evaluation process is available. Some parents are not told about it, and only learn about speech services.

Lesson 2: There are high-tech, low-tech, and no-tech options for AAC. High-tech options might include things like using an app on an iPad or tablet to communicate, or using a computer with a “voice” such as a speech-generating device. No-tech options might include: gestures and facial expressions, writing, drawing, spelling words by pointing to letters, written words, or images (ex. Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)).

Resources:

• Facebook: For those who want to gain more knowledge about AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices, “Ask Me, I’m an AAC User (24 Hour Rule!)” on Facebook is a useful resource.