What is an AAC device?
An augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device, is tablet that helps someone with a speech or language impairment to communicate.
How do I get my child an AAC device?
Ideally, this should be done with a speech therapist also known as a speech-language pathologist (SLP). One of the jobs of a speech therapist is to assist with daily communication and language skills. If your child is having difficulty communicating, one option for them is an AAC device to help augment or replace verbal speech. AAC devices can also supplement speech and build phrases and sentences to help the user communicate functionally.
Why Should I Get My AAC Through a Speech Therapist?
A speech therapist can provide an evaluation and learn the user’s abilities. They are knowledgeable about the different AAC apps available and can provide a trial to find the best fit for their patient. Ideally, the speech therapist will choose an app that fits the user’s needs and is customizable to the user.
For those who struggle with technology, a speech therapist can teach the patient and their family how to use the device, how to add words, and categories, customize the app, etc. It is easy to become frustrated with new technology, but your speech therapist can help guide you.
Important Things to Note about AAC
It is important that once you start using AAC you continue to use it daily and EVERYWHERE the user goes (school, work, home, etc). Progress may be slow at first, but most patients do see an improvement in communication when used regularly. A speech therapist can help you on your journey.
A Personal Note…
I have 3 sons who all use AAC for different language needs. It definitely takes effort, but if you put in the time, it can definitely work for you. My middle son uses it for 99% of his communication as he only says a few words. My oldest son is able to speak but has a lot of anxiety during communication. His device helps him formulate what to say and then he says the word. This adds a level of comfort to communication for him. My youngest son is 10 and he is beginning to speak so many words. He is still in that phase of communication where Mommy understands him and the people closest to him, but others have difficulty understanding him. We use his AAC to help him ask for things because this is still the level he is on with the AAC device. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. However, I do think that using the AAC has helped teach him how to communicate with his own voice because he was not doing this before the device. I don’t promise this will happen with every child. My middle son is amazing with his AAC device and will ask me questions like “Where are we going?” However, he probably can still only say 50 words verbally, BUT he is still communicating and I am one happy mama!
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By Kristie Owens, B.S., J.D., Master’s Student in Educational Psychology, Master’s Student in Special Education, emphasis in Disabilities for Post-secondary Settings with an Emphasis in Autism, Curriculum Development and Leadership, and Literacy Instruction. Autism mom of 3.
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