What is AAC?
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to the many ways a child can communicate other than spoken language. This includes gestures, Key Word Sign, communication boards, and visual charts, as well as more High-Tech options such as an iPad with specialised communication apps.
Why use AAC?
AAC can be helpful for children who don't use spoken language as their main way of communicating. It allows them to express themselves, make choices, and understand others better through visuals, gestures and other supports.
Will using AAC affect my child's ability to speak or learn language?
Using AAC doesn't mean your child will stop speaking. In fact, children who use AAC often still use vocalisations, gestures, and even some speech to communicate. It's just another helpful tool to support their understanding and communication skills.
There's a common misconception that children who use AAC stop talking because they rely on their AAC devices. Research shows that this is false, and in fact, AAC can actually support a child’s language development!
How can AAC support language?
AAC is commonly used in combination with spoken language. When a parent or speech pathologist is helping a child learn how to use their AAC, they are modelling different words to the child and exposing them to a range of vocabulary.
Communication devices often have speech generating features, so children can listen to and practice speaking. We often see that children imitate and begin using target words on their AAC system.
Many high-tech devices use a core words approach, which mirrors how we naturally learn language. Children are encouraged to learn ’core’ words like 'more', 'finish', and 'want' first before progressing to more complex or ‘fringe’ vocabulary. This helps them to grasp the foundations of language and then gradually expand their vocabulary as they become more familiar with the AAC system. It also allows them to communicate for a variety of functions. AAC devices enable children to not only learn new words but also to combine them to express themselves through comments, questions and requests.
Encouraging children to use their AAC system in different settings, such as at home, school, or in the community, is key. It not only boosts their confidence and comfort with the device, but also exposes them to a variety of language they can use alongside their AAC system.
If you would like to trial different AAC methods, it is helpful to chat to your child’s speech pathologist. Feel free to contact us at Bambini Health and we would love to support!
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