At More Than a Voice Speech Therapy, we provide specialized Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) therapy to help children who struggle with verbal communication. Whether your child is nonverbal, minimally verbal, or has difficulty forming words, AAC can open new pathways for self-expression and connection.

What is AAC?

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to tools and strategies that support or replace verbal speech. AAC can range from low-tech options, like picture communication boards, to high-tech speech-generating devices.

AAC is commonly used for children with:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)
• Cerebral Palsy
• Down Syndrome
• Developmental Delays
• Other speech and language disorders

Types of AAC We Offer

1. Low-Tech AAC (No Batteries or Electronics Required)

• Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) – A visual-based communication system where children exchange pictures to request or express ideas.
• Communication Books & Boards – Personalized boards with images, words, or symbols for communication.
• Gestures & Sign Language – Alternative methods for children who can use hand movements to express needs.

2. High-Tech AAC (Electronic Communication Devices & Apps)

• iPad-Based Communication Apps – Apps like Proloquo2Go, LAMP Words for Life, and TouchChat.
• Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs) – Devices that generate spoken words when a child selects symbols.
• Eye-Tracking & Switch-Activated Devices – Designed for children with motor challenges.

How AAC Therapy Works

• Teaching your child how to navigate their AAC system
• Expanding vocabulary and sentence-building using AAC
• Training parents and caregivers on how to reinforce AAC at home
• Helping children transition from AAC to verbal speech if appropriate

AAC is not a replacement for speech—it is a bridge to communication that helps children express themselves while developing verbal language skills.

Benefits of AAC for Children

• Reduces frustration by giving children a way to communicate their needs
• Encourages social interaction and participation in daily activities
• Supports language development and comprehension skills
• Improves confidence in communication settings

Common Myths About AAC

❌ "Using AAC will stop my child from learning to talk."

✅ Research shows that AAC can actually boost verbal speech development by providing a consistent communication system while speech skills grow.

❌ "AAC is only for nonverbal children."

✅ Many children with limited speech or difficulty forming words benefit from AAC to supplement their verbal abilities.

❌ "AAC devices are too complicated for young children."

✅ Children as young as 12 months can start using AAC! Many apps and tools are designed to be simple and intuitive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know if my child needs AAC?

AAC may be beneficial if your child:

• Has little to no verbal speech
• Gets frustrated when trying to communicate
• Uses gestures, pointing, or sounds but has difficulty forming sentences
• Has a medical or developmental condition affecting speech

2. At what age can a child start using AAC?

Children as young as 12 months can begin learning AAC. The earlier they start, the more natural it becomes.

3. Will my child still learn to speak if they use AAC?

Yes! Studies show that AAC does not replace speech but supports it. Many children who use AAC actually develop verbal speech more effectively.

4. What is the difference between high-tech and low-tech AAC?

Low-tech AAC: Picture boards, communication books, or sign language.
High-tech AAC: iPad apps, speech-generating devices, and eye-tracking systems.

5. Will my child need to use AAC forever?

Not necessarily. Some children use AAC temporarily while developing verbal speech, while others rely on it as their primary communication method.

6. How do I choose the right AAC device for my child?

An AAC specialist will assess your child’s needs to determine the best system.

7. Can AAC be used at school?

Yes! Many schools incorporate AAC. We can work with educators and IEP teams for proper implementation.

8. How do I support my child in using AAC at home?

• Encourage your child to use their AAC system throughout the day
• Model communication by using the device yourself
• Keep AAC tools easily accessible in different environments
• Celebrate and reinforce all forms of communication