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Should my child use an AAC device?

A Beginner’s Guide to Communication Beyond Words

Written by Kristie Owens

June 2025

As a parent, few things are more important than hearing your child’s voice, whether it’s through spoken words, gestures, or something else entirely. For some individuals, especially those with speech or language challenges, traditional speech might not come easily. That’s where AAC comes in.

At Playful Paths Speech Therapy, we believe every child deserves a way to connect with the world around them. Whether your child is non-speaking, minimally verbal, or simply has difficulty expressing themselves clearly, AAC can open powerful new possibilities for communication.

What Does AAC Mean?

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It refers to all the ways someone can communicate when they aren’t able to use spoken language effectively, either temporarily or permanently. It augments existing speech or serves as an alternative when speech is not possible.

AAC can be as simple as a gesture or picture card, or as advanced as a speech-generating tablet device. It is not one-size-fits-all, AAC is highly individualized to support each person’s strengths and needs.

Important Note: AAC is not just for individuals who are non-speaking. It’s for anyone who has difficulty communicating effectively with speech, whether that means trouble finding words, forming sentences, or being understood by others.

Who uses AAC?

AAC can support a wide range of individuals, including those with:

  • Autism

  • Apraxia of speech

  • Developmental delays

  • Down syndrome

  • Genetic or neurological conditions

  • Brain injuries

  • Hearing loss

  • Speech sound disorders

  • Stroke patients

  • Or anyone who struggles to speak clearly or consistently

Even individuals who can speak some words may benefit from AAC to expand their ability to communicate longer thoughts, reduce frustration, and build confidence.

Types of AAC: From Low-Tech to High-Tech.

Low-Tech AAC:

These tools don’t require batteries or screens. They’re great for getting started or for young kids just beginning to understand communication:

  • Picture boards or communication books

  • Choice cards

  • Core vocabulary boards

  • Writing or drawing tools

Mid-Tech AAC:

These include simple devices that produce speech but aren’t connected to the internet or complex software:

  • Single-message buttons (like “Big Mack” switches)

  • Basic voice output devices with a few pre-set phrases

  • Go Talk communication devices

High-Tech AAC:

These are advanced systems, often tablet-based, with customizable software that can grow with your child’s language development:

  • iPads with apps like TD Snap or Proloquo2Go

  • Dedicated speech-generating devices (SGDs)

  • Eye-tracking or switch-access technology for individuals with physical challenges

AAC Is as Diverse as the People Who Use It

AAC should be tailored to each person’s needs and strengths:

  • Eye Gaze Systems: Great for individuals with significant motor challenges such as Rett syndrome, cerebral palsy, or SMA. These systems allow a child to select words using their eyes.

  • Big Mack Switches: Ideal for individuals with limited motor control. These devices allow them to communicate with a single message using touch from any body part.

  • Low-Tech Boards: Portable, accessible, and a perfect entry point for early communication.

  • High-Tech Devices: Offer robust language systems that adapt and grow with the child.

AAC is not one-size-fits-all, the best system is the one that works for the child. Communication should reflect who they are and how they interact with the world.

Busting the Myths: There Are No Pre-requisites for AAC

One of the biggest misunderstandings about AAC is the belief that a child must meet certain “prerequisites” before using it. You may have heard:

  • “They’re too young.”

  • “They need to be able to point first.”

  • “They have to understand everything before they can use AAC.”

These assumptions, though often well-meaning, can delay access to language. Just like we talk to babies before they can talk back, we can introduce AAC before speech develops. Communication doesn’t have prerequisites, it has possibilities.

It’s Okay to Start Small

AAC can be introduced slowly and intentionally, at a child’s own pace. It might start with a few pictures for favorite items or needs. If a child can use those symbols to make choices or express feelings, that’s communication. That’s a win.

There’s no rush. The goal is to build a system that feels natural, meaningful, and empowering, not overwhelming.

What If My Child Has Cognitive Challenges?

Another myth is that a child must demonstrate a certain level of cognitive ability to benefit from AAC. But communication is a basic human right, not something that has to be earned.

Individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, or other speech and language disorders can and do use AAC successfully. For some, it might support basic needs. For others, it becomes a rich language system to tell jokes, ask questions, and express deep thoughts.

The goal is not perfection, it’s connection.

Will AAC Stop My Child from Talking?

A common worry is that AAC will stop a child from talking. Research shows the opposite: AAC can encourage speech. By giving individuals a reliable way to communicate, they often feel less pressure and frustration, which supports spoken language development.

Source: American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, ASHA

Why Early AAC Matters

The earlier we give individuals access to communication, the more opportunities they have to grow socially, emotionally, and academically. Even toddlers can benefit from AAC, waiting for speech to "catch up" can lead to frustration, isolation, and delays in other areas.

AAC offers a way for individuals to connect now, rather than waiting for the “right words” to come. Research shows that starting AAC early, even before age 3, can build stronger language foundations and increase the likelihood of future verbal speech.

AAC and Literacy

AAC supports reading and writing, too! Using symbols, pictures, and voice output helps individuals understand that language has structure and meaning. Many AAC tools build vocabulary, phonics, and early literacy skills. AAC is a bridge to literacy, not a barrier.

AAC Works Best When It’s a Team Effort!

AAC is most effective when it’s supported by a collaborative team. While professionals like BCBAs may help with communication goals through behavior-based strategies, they typically do not receive formal training in AAC selection or implementation. That’s why teamwork matters. When SLPs, BCBAs, Ots, Music Therapists, teachers, families, etc,  work together, individuals receive well-rounded support that truly honors how they learn and express themselves.

But collaboration isn’t just about professionals; it’s about consistency. There are 168 hours in a week. If AAC is only used during a 60-minute speech therapy session, the individual is unlikely to make meaningful communication gains. For AAC to truly support a child’s communication, it needs to be integrated into daily life, during meals, playtime, routines, school, and community outings.

What matters most is that AAC is available, encouraged, and modeled regularly by the people who spend the most time with the child. Every small effort helps build connection, confidence, and communication.

Getting Started with AAC

If you think your child might benefit from AAC, the first step is a comprehensive evaluation by a speech-language pathologist (SLP) at Playful Paths. We’ll assess your child’s communication strengths and challenges and guide you toward the right tools and strategies.

Every Voice Matters

AAC is more than a tool, it’s a path to confidence, connection, and independence. Whether your child says “I love you” with a picture, a gesture, or a button, that message is just as powerful as spoken words.

If you’re curious about AAC or wondering if it’s right for your child, we’d love to connect. At Playful Paths Speech Therapy, we’re here to support every child’s journey, whatever their voice looks or sounds like.