AAC Basics: Communication Comes in Many Forms

What Is AAC?

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, an umbrella term for any tool or strategy that helps a child communicate when speech alone isn’t enough. At its core, AAC is about giving children reliable ways to express themselves, be understood, and connect with others. AAC can take many forms, ranging from simple to complex. It might be gestures, facial expressions, or sign language; picture cards or communication boards; or high-tech devices that generate speech. Some children use AAC alongside spoken words, while others rely on it more heavily—but in every case, AAC expands a child’s communicative potential and unlocks new opportunities for connection, learning, and confidence.

What Is the Total Communication Approach?

No single method works for every child, which is why many therapists use a total communication approach. Instead of relying on just one way of talking, children are encouraged to build a speech and language toolbox filled with many options—speech, gestures, facial expressions, sign language, picture symbols, and devices. The more tools they have in their toolbox, the more ways they can share their ideas, ask for what they need, and make their voice heard.

What Are the Benefits of AAC?

Research shows that AAC has many powerful benefits for children and their families:

• Reduces frustration by providing a reliable way to communicate needs and ideas

• Supports speech development by encouraging, not replacing, spoken language

• Expands language skills by adding new vocabulary and sentence structures

• Builds confidence by making communication easier and more successful

• Promotes independence by allowing children to make choices and express preferences

• Enhances learning by giving children access to language needed for school routines and academics

• Encourages participation in family activities, play, and community experiences

  
  

How Can Families Use AAC at Home?

The best AAC practice happens during everyday routines, when communication feels natural and meaningful. Families can model AAC while eating meals (e.g.,“more,” “I want juice”), playing games (e.g., “go,” “your turn"), reading stories (e.g., “look,” “so funny,” “turn the page”), getting dressed (e.g., “blue shirt,” “put on”), or during transitions (e.g., “all done,” “what's next?”). These small, repeated moments quickly add up, making AAC a consistent part of family life. Children learn to use AAC the same way they learn to talk—by seeing and hearing it in action. This process, called aided language stimulation, means parents, siblings, and teachers model words and phrases on the child’s system while speaking, showing them how it works in real time.

When Should You Consider AAC?

If your child has limited verbal speech, gets frustrated when trying to communicate, or relies on gestures that aren’t always understood, AAC could be a helpful support. A speech-language evaluation can help identify the right tools and strategies for your child.

AAC isn’t a last resort—it’s a powerful way to give children more ways to share their voice. With a total communication approach, lots of modeling, and playful practice woven into everyday routines, kids can grow their language, confidence, and connections.

Schedule a free consultation today to learn how AAC could support your child!