What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)?

AAC refers to a set of tools and techniques that supplement or replace speech for individuals facing challenges in speech production or comprehension. These solutions range from simple gestures and communication boards to advanced speech-generating devices. For many children, AAC serves as a bridge, enabling them to communicate effectively and participate fully in their environment.

AAC is categorized into two primary uses:

• Augmentative: Enhancing existing speech capabilities to improve communication.
• Alternative: Replacing speech for those without functional verbal communication.

Through AAC, children can articulate their wants, needs, ideas, and feelings, paving the way for stronger connections and more independence.

What is an AAC Evaluation?

An AAC evaluation is a structured assessment conducted by our skilled speech-language pathologists to determine the most appropriate communication tools for your child. This process involves:

• Analyzing your child’s communication strengths and needs.
• Exploring various AAC techniques, such as manual signs and gestures, communication books or boards, visual aids or devices.
• Identifying tools that align with your child’s abilities, preferences, and daily environments.

The outcome of the evaluation is a personalized AAC plan that recommends effective tools, strategies, and training to support communication.

What is AAC Intervention?

AAC intervention focuses on implementing the tools and strategies identified during the evaluation to meet communication goals. Our team provides hands-on training for both the child and caregivers, ensuring effective and consistent use in daily interactions. We prioritize:

• Teaching your child how to use AAC tools to express themselves confidently.
• Supporting families and educators in integrating AAC into everyday activities.
• Adjusting and refining tools as your child’s needs evolve.

With AAC intervention, every child receives tailored support to enhance their language development and communication opportunities.

What Types of Challenges and Disorders Benefit from AAC?

AAC is a powerful solution for individuals with a variety of speech and language impairments stemming from congenital or acquired conditions.

Challenges Treated with AAC Include:

• Congenital Disabilities like cerebral palsy, developmental apraxia of speech, genetic and intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and language delays associated with developmental disorders

For these individuals, AAC not only serves as a communication tool but also supports the development of expressive and receptive language skills, as well as literacy.

• Acquired Disabilities like complications following a stroke or traumatic brain injury, neurodegenerative diseases such as neuromuscular disorders or primary progressive aphasia, physical injuries or surgeries, and temporary impairments, such as those experienced by intubated patients

For those living with acquired disabilities, AAC adapts to meet their evolving communication needs over time.

AAC Services and Resources at the C&FD

Child & Family Development provides a diverse range of AAC services aimed at empowering children and supporting families. Our multidisciplinary team is here to guide you through a holistic process of evaluation, intervention, and continued assistance.

PROMPT®-Based Speech Therapy

Our specialists utilize PROMPT (Prompts for Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets), a cutting-edge technique designed to enhance speech production. This approach combines tactile, visual, and auditory cues to restructure and guide oral-motor movements. PROMPT therapy is particularly effective for children with speech disorders, including apraxia, autism, and phonological difficulties.

Social Skills Groups

We recognize the importance of social interaction as a component of communication. Our speech therapists and occupational therapists collaborate to lead engaging social skills groups that focus on practical conversational skills, such as greetings, turn-taking, interpreting emotions, and expressing oneself effectively. Sessions include:

• Role-playing activities
• Turn-taking games
• Problem-solving scenarios

These group settings foster an environment where children can practice real-world interactions while forming friendships.

Tools and Multi-sensory Strategies

We use a wide range of AAC tools and strategies tailored to each child. From communication boards and manual signs to advanced speech-generating devices, our solutions meet the diverse needs of children with communication challenges.

Training for Families and Educators

Education is at the heart of our AAC services. We provide detailed training and resources to parents, caregivers, and educators to ensure AAC tools and strategies are seamlessly integrated into the child’s daily routines.

Ongoing Support

We understand that communication needs evolve over time. Our team remains committed to adjusting intervention plans and supporting families every step of the way.

Take the First Step Toward Better Communication

At Child & Family Development, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to communicate effectively and connect with the world around them. Our AAC evaluation and intervention services provide customized solutions that make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families.