Children and adults with severe speech or language problems may need to find other ways to communicate besides talking. AAC means all of the ways that someone communicates besides talking. People of all ages can use AAC if they have trouble with speech or language skills. Augmentative means to add to someone’s speech. Alternative means to be used instead of speech. Some individuals require AAC for their lifetime, while others only require it for shorter periods of time. 

 

AAC comes in many forms. No tech, low-tech, and high-tech. While low tech can consist of things such as gestures and facial expressions,
writing, and the use of pictures/icons. High tech options can consist of using an app on an iPad or tablet to communicate or using a computer with a “voice," this is sometimes referred to as a speech-generating device (SGD).

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A speech language pathologist (SLP) will be able to help determine the best AAC system for you or your family member. They are also the ones that will model how the device works and train individuals on how to use it (or even train teachers on how to help implement it into daily routines). 

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To learn more about what AAC is click on the top link! 

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To learn about 7 popular devices and what they are click on the 2nd link!