Key takeaways
- AAC means any way of communicating other than speaking: gestures, signs, pictures, letter boards, and apps or devices that speak.
- There are no prerequisites. Children of any age or ability can start using AAC.
- Research shows AAC does not stop children from developing speech. Many children’s speech increases after starting AAC.
- Children learn AAC the way they learn speech: by seeing the people around them use it.
When a speech pathologist first mentions AAC, many parents picture an expensive device, or worry it means giving up on talking. In reality, AAC is something we all use every day: a wave, a thumbs up, a text message. For children who can’t yet rely on speech to say everything they want to, AAC gives them a voice now, while speech keeps developing.
What is AAC?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It covers all the ways someone communicates besides talking.
- Augmentative means adding to speech, for a child who has some words but can’t yet say everything they want.
- Alternative means instead of speech, for a child who doesn’t use spoken words, or for times when speech isn’t working for them (such as when they’re tired or overwhelmed).
AAC supports every reason we communicate: asking for things, saying no, sharing news, asking questions, joking, protesting and connecting with people.
Types of AAC
| Type | What it is | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Unaided (no tools) | Uses only the body | Gestures, facial expressions, Key Word Sign, pointing |
| Low-tech aided | Paper-based or simple tools, no battery | Picture cards, choice boards, PECS, PODD communication books, letter boards |
| High-tech aided | Electronic systems with a voice | Speech-generating apps on a tablet (such as LAMP Words for Life or Proloquo2Go), dedicated speech-generating devices |
Most children use a mix. A child might sign “more” at the table, point to a picture board in the bath, and use a speech-generating app at preschool. At The Bridge Effect we work with PODD, LAMP, Key Word Sign, PECS and high-tech devices, matched to each child. App names here are examples, not endorsements.
Who can use AAC?
Anyone who can’t rely on speech alone to communicate everything they want to say. That includes children who:
- are minimally speaking or non-speaking
- have speech that’s hard for others to understand
- have words but lose access to them when stressed or overwhelmed
- are gestalt language processors or use echolalia
- have a physical condition affecting speech, such as cerebral palsy or childhood apraxia of speech
There is no minimum age and no skills a child needs first. Toddlers as young as 12 months can begin with AAC.
Common myths about AAC
Myth: “AAC will stop my child from learning to talk.” This is the most common worry, and the research doesn’t support it. A review of studies by Millar, Light and Schlosser (2006) found no cases where AAC reduced speech, and most children showed an increase in speech after AAC was introduced. AAC takes the pressure off and gives children a model to learn from.
Myth: “My child needs to be ‘ready’ first.” There are no prerequisites. Children don’t need to point accurately, match pictures or sit still to start. These skills develop through using AAC, not before it.
Myth: “AAC is a last resort.” AAC is most helpful when introduced early, alongside speech therapy, not after everything else has been tried.
Myth: “A device does the work.” A device is a tool. Children learn to use AAC when the people around them model it in everyday life.
How children learn AAC: modelling
Children learn to speak by hearing thousands of words before saying their first one. AAC works the same way. Speech pathologists call this aided language modelling: you point to symbols on your child’s system as you talk to them.
For example, at snack time you might say “Want more apple?” while touching WANT, MORE and APPLE on the board. You’re not asking your child to copy you. You’re showing them how their language works.
- Model without expecting. No “Now you say it.” Just show.
- Model a little above their level. If your child uses single symbols, model two-symbol phrases.
- Model all kinds of words. Not just requests: also “stop”, “funny”, “look”, “my turn”, “all done”.
- Keep the AAC system close by. It’s their voice, so it goes everywhere: the park, the car, grandma’s house.
Getting started at home
- Notice how your child already communicates. Leading you by the hand, pointing, sounds and gestures are all communication. Respond to them.
- Start with one routine. Snack time, bath time or a favourite game is a natural place to begin.
- Try a simple choice board. Two to four photos of real items (“apple” or “crackers”) that your child can point to.
- Learn a few Key Word Signs. MORE, FINISHED, HELP and EAT are useful first signs.
- Talk to a speech pathologist about which system fits your child before buying a device or app.
AAC and the NDIS
AAC devices and apps can be funded through the NDIS as assistive technology. This usually needs a speech pathology AAC assessment, a trial of options, and a report explaining why the system suits your child.
The Bridge Effect supports NDIS self-managed and plan-managed families and can provide AAC assessments and assistive technology reports. Read more about NDIS funding or our guide to self-managed vs. plan-managed NDIS.
When to seek support
Consider talking to a speech pathologist about AAC if your child:
- isn’t using words by 18 to 24 months, or uses very few words for their age
- gets frustrated when they’re not understood
- has words but loses them when upset or overwhelmed
- communicates mostly by leading you, pointing or crying
- has a diagnosis where speech may be slow to develop
Our speech pathologists provide AAC assessment, system trials and therapy at our Northmead clinic, supporting families from Parramatta, Westmead, Castle Hill and across Western Sydney. You don’t need a referral. Learn more about our AAC support or contact us.
Frequently asked questions
What does AAC stand for?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It includes all the ways people communicate other than speaking, from gestures and signs to picture boards and speech-generating devices.
Will AAC stop my child from talking?
No. Research shows AAC does not reduce speech development, and many children’s speech increases after starting AAC. It gives children a way to communicate now while speech continues to develop.
What age can a child start using AAC?
There’s no minimum age. Children as young as 12 months can begin using AAC, and there are no skills they need first.
What is the best AAC app for children?
There’s no single best app. The right system depends on your child’s movement, vision, language and interests, and your family’s routines. A speech pathologist can help you trial options before buying.
Is AAC only for autistic children?
No. AAC helps many children, including those with developmental delay, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, childhood apraxia of speech and others. Autistic children may use AAC alongside speech, especially when speech is harder to access.
Can the NDIS fund an AAC device?
Yes, AAC devices and apps can be funded as assistive technology. Funding usually requires a speech pathology assessment and report. The Bridge Effect supports NDIS self-managed and plan-managed families.
References
- Millar, D. C., Light, J. C., & Schlosser, R. W. (2006). The impact of augmentative and alternative communication intervention on the speech production of individuals with developmental disabilities: A research review. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, 49(2), 248–264.
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Augmentative and Alternative Communication.