Augmentative and alternative communication, or AAC, is an evolving field united in an individual’s fundamental right to communicate. You may come across many beliefs about communication and language related to AAC. Research affirms some and counters others. Know what’s true and follow what’s been proven to give your clients the best perspective and approaches for AAC success.
Statement: AAC should be introduced only after giving up hope for natural speech development.
Research Proves: You can continue to work on natural speech development while encouraging AAC use for communication.1
High tech, lite tech, sign language, and more can be part of someone’s AAC toolbox while working on natural speech. Providing many ways to communicate can address someone’s needs and reduce frustration in learning language.
Tyler is one example of countering this false belief. He had no spoken language as a child. Now a teenager, he communicates verbally most of the time and uses his Accent® 800 as a backup, particularly when he’s tired or stressed. AAC didn’t hinder Tyler’s ability to speak verbally. Within two years of using LAMP Words for Life®, he was able to verbally repeat everything he said on the tablet.
Read more stories of AAC communicators.
Statement: AAC decreases the motivation to work on speech.
Research Proves: Often, hearing a spoken model consistently on an AAC device will encourage children’s natural speech.2
You simply can’t model AAC too much. Research shows that the best way to learn a language is to hear it and be exposed to it. Model when you say hello, give instructions, or read a book. Even jokes! Say the words out loud and then echo the words with their device.
Statement: There are language and/or cognitive prerequisites that need to be met first for AAC to be successful.
Research Proves: Children with severe cognitive deficits are capable of learning and benefiting from AAC.3
When it comes to AAC, competency is presumed. Believing everyone has the right to communicate, give them options to try out high-tech and lite-tech solutions and find out what works best. AAC vocabularies on a fundable device or app have options for all physical, cognitive, and literacy levels. Learn more about these options by connecting with your local consultant.
Statement: If present, spoken speech should be used exclusively.
Research Proves: Requiring exclusively verbal speech may underestimate a child’s ability. Children using AAC have shown improvements in behavior, attention, independence, self-confidence, class participation, academic progress, and social interaction.4
Communication occurs in many ways throughout the day. Voices speak. Faces express many messages. Hands gesture. Sometimes, we just make noises. Other times, we use writing, like texting. There are numerous ways to communicate and we need all of them! Let’s give them all the tools to communicate, participate, and engage well.
What other AAC statements have made you pause? Curious to learn more? Explore course options through AAC Learning Journey.