What is Augmentative alternative communication (AAC)?
When someone has difficulty speaking it is important to find an alternative method for them to be able to express their wants and needs while we are simultaneously working on verbalizations. There are many different ways to communicate such as through pictures. One very specific picture system is known as the Picture Exchange system. You can also use a voice output device such as a Vantage Lite which allows your child to push pictures and have a voice say the word so they hear the word and are able to communicate easier and faster using the device. Commonly when children are in preschool I recommend an interim AAC device such as simply pictures being used to make choices or a great new website that I have found to be very useful for families called Pogo Boards.. This is an APP that has a monthly membership fee of $10. I have found this to be very helpful because sometimes your child might only need a device for a short period of time. The app works on both Ipads and on android tablets. You can build pages on your computer that you either print out for use in your home, or you build them and use them right on your ipad/tablet. If you have any questions in regard to AAC devices and how to begin, please let me assist you. Below you will find articles that will help you to learn how to use all of the different AAC systems.