Alternative / Augmentative communication

AAC stands for alternative / augmentative communication.  

People use AAC when they find speaking difficult. 

AAC can also be used to support people's understanding of spoken language. 

Some examples of AAC might include:

• Key Word Sign
• Low-tech systems: picture symbols, visual schedules, picture exchange, and communication books.
• Mid-tech systems: switches, GoTalk devices
• High-tech systems: apps on an iPad and dedicated communication devices.

Some people can access AAC with their hands. This is known as direct access. 

AAC can also be customised for people who have difficulties moving their bodies. Alternative-access methods can include using switches, head pointing, eye-gaze, and partner-assisted scanning. 

Everyone can benefit from using AAC. 

People with significant communication needs may use AAC to replace their speaking. Some people may use AAC for their entire life. Other people may use AAC for a period while their speech develops. 

Some people use AAC part-time. They may be able to say some words, or use mouth-words in certain situations. See the following article from ASHA: https://pubs.asha.org/doi/abs/10.1044/2023_PERSP-22-00200. 

In children with speech and language delays, AAC can be used as a way to jumpstart their language development and expand their vocabulary / sentence skills.

AAC includes visuals that support comprehension, emotional regulation, and behaviour management. They may include picture schedules, calendars, and visuals to support understanding of complex topics.  

It is important to remember that all methods of communication are valid. Communication, not talking, is the priority!

Although this is a common concern, the short answer is no - AAC will not stop anyone from learning to talk. 

All the research shows that AAC encourages talking, and not the other way around.  See the following studies from  2005 (open access), 2008, and  2021.

AAC systems allows many people to have a voice that they would otherwise not have. It offers them choice and control over their everyday life rather than relying on others. To deny someone AAC would be similar to taking away a person's voice.

Harrison has worked with a range of different disabilities. This has included  people with physical disabilities, low hearing / low vision, and other neurodevelopmental disabilities. He is familiar with a range of low-tech and mid-tech options (including Key Word Sign and PODD), as well as Proloquo, LAMP, Minspeak / Unity language systems, and Tobii Dynavox systems (including TD Snap and Tobii dedicated devices). For people who are not able to directly access their communication system, Harrison has worked with alternative access methods including switch-scanning, eye-gaze, and partner-assisted scanning.