Just because a child isn’t speaking yet doesn’t mean they don’t have plenty to say. Often, the desire to communicate is there, but they lack a reliable tool to express it. This is where Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) comes in.

What is AAC?

AAC includes a variety of tools that help children communicate, regardless of whether they have speech:

Low-tech tools: Simple picture cards or symbol boards that a child can point to or hand to someone.

High-tech tools: Tablets or specialized devices that speak words or phrases aloud when selected.

Mixed approach: Many children use a combination of both types depending on the situation.

Will AAC stop my child from talking?

A common worry is that using AAC will prevent a child from developing spoken language. However, research consistently shows the opposite:

AAC does not hold back speech development.

AAC often supports spoken language, with most children in studies either maintaining or increasing their spoken words after beginning to use these tools.

Providing a voice today and encouraging speech for tomorrow are not in conflict.

Why start early?

It is better to start early than to wait for speech to arrive on its own. Introducing AAC early allows children to use it as a natural way to communicate, rather than leaving them unable to ask for things, refuse, or share their thoughts for years.

How to help your child succeed

Model the behavior: Use the cards or device yourself while you talk to your child. For example, point to the symbol for "more" when you say the word, or touch "finished" when clearing a plate.

Remove the pressure: This approach shows the child how the tool works in real-life situations without making them feel tested or put on the spot.

Make it part of daily life: Use these tools throughout the day rather than saving them for specific lessons.

Start simple: Focus on a few useful words used frequently rather than a complex system that isn’t used.

Follow their lead: Be patient, follow your child’s interests, and remember that the goal is simply the relief of being understood.