ABCs of AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)

Did you know that Engage Therapy Center offers evaluations and treatment sessions for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)? Let’s talk about AAC!

What is AAC?
AAC includes all of the ways that someone communicates other than using verbal speech. Both children and adults may use AAC if they have difficulty using verbal speech. 

AAC can range from using facial expressions, writing, and drawing, to using an app on an iPad or a computer using eye-tracking software to communicate. AAC helps people communicate more effectively and efficiently. 

How do I get started?

To start, an AAC evaluation is completed to determine the most effective communication tools and strategies for an individual. It aims to identify the best AAC solutions—whether low-tech like picture boards or high-tech like speech-generating devices—based on the person's unique needs and abilities. 

Is my child ready for AAC?

Research tells us that AAC helps people of all ages, even those younger than 3 years old can benefit! You can use AAC early. There are no cognitive skills, test scores, or other milestones that you need to reach before AAC can help.

Will using AAC delay verbal speech?

Research shows that AAC does NOT keep people from developing or using verbal speech and can actually improve verbal speech production. 

Why is AAC important?

AAC empowers communication for those who struggle with verbal speech. It enhances interactions by making communication more effective, supports independence by giving individuals a means to express themselves, reduces frustration by giving users a clear and efficient way to communicate, and supports social and emotional well-being. 

Reach out to our team to learn more about AAC!