As a parent, one of the most important things you can do for your child is to ensure they have the tools to communicate effectively. If your child is struggling with verbal communication, it can be incredibly frustrating for both them and you. This is where Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) comes in.
What is AAC?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, which refers to any tool or method that helps a person communicate their message when they are unable to do so verbally. If your child has not yet developed verbal communication skills, has a limited vocabulary, or needs support to communicate more effectively, a speech pathologist may suggest using AAC.
It’s important to note that AAC is not just for young children – it can benefit individuals of all ages. Some children may use AAC for a short period, while others may rely on it long term, depending on their needs and development.
Types of AAC
AAC comes in different forms, depending on your child’s needs and abilities. Here are the types of AAC:
Unaided Communication: This involves using no external tools, relying on communication methods like eye contact, facial expressions, body language, gestures, and sign language (such as Auslan or Key Word Sign). It’s a great starting point and an essential foundation for communication.
Light Technology AAC: Light technology includes communication methods that don’t require electronic devices. These could be language boards or PODD (Pragmatically Organised Dynamic Display) books that use symbols to represent words. Your child can point to a symbol to express a message, and their communication partner can verbalise it back, ensuring the message is understood.
High Technology AAC: High-tech AAC involves using devices or systems that generate speech, like an iPad with a communication app such as Proloquo2Go or LAMP Words For Life. These devices can provide your child with a more advanced way to express themselves and are often used when other methods aren’t enough.
How can AAC help my child?
AAC is designed to help children express their needs, thoughts, and feelings when they are unable to rely on spoken words alone to communicate their message.. By introducing AAC, you’re giving your child a way to communicate successfully, which can significantly reduce frustration and help them connect with peers and family members.
Research has shown that using AAC can actually help improve speech development. Since many AAC systems provide visual images to match words and allow the child to hear the word spoken aloud, they can learn to associate sounds with visuals, which helps with language development. AAC has also been linked to improvements in reading and writing skills, as some AAC systems provide the written form of words, helping children become more familiar with the written language.
How can I begin learning and using AAC?
Starting with AAC can seem overwhelming, but the good news is that you don’t have to do it alone. The first step is to consult with a speech pathologist who specialises in communication. They will assess your child’s needs and guide you through the process of finding the best AAC system for your child.
Your speech pathologist may suggest a combination of methods, such as using language boards alongside Key Word Sign or combining an AAC device with language boards. It’s common for families to trial different options to find what works best for their child.
Tips for Using AAC with Your Child
When introducing AAC to your child, here are some important tips to help make the process smoother:
- Learn the system yourself: The more you understand how AAC works, the better you can model it for your child. By using AAC yourself, you can show your child how to communicate effectively.
- Model, model, model: Allow your child to observe you using AAC before they are expected to use it themselves. This modelling process will help them learn how to use the system.
- Make AAC accessible: Keep the AAC system readily available for your child at all times. The more accessible it is, the more likely your child will engage with it.
- Start slow: Introducing a new system can be overwhelming for your child, so start with one symbol or concept at a time. Your speech pathologist will guide you through this step-by-step process.
- Patience is key: It’s important to be patient with your child as they learn to use AAC. With consistent practice and support, they will gradually become more comfortable and confident in their ability to communicate.
Remember, the goal of AAC is to provide your child with the ability to communicate in a way that is effective and empowering. Whether it’s through gestures, symbols, or electronic devices, AAC is a powerful tool to help your child express their thoughts, ideas, and needs.
As speech pathologists, we are here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need more information, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can help your child on their communication journey.
If you would like more details or need assistance feel free to reach out to SPOT Paediatrics by calling 7228 6825 or emailing admin@spotpaediatrics.com.au.