Assistive Communication (AAC): Complete Guide 2025

# Assistive Communication (AAC): Complete Guide for Parents

If your child has difficulty speaking, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) may be the solution. This guide explains everything.

## What is AAC?

AAC includes **all forms of communication** beyond verbal speech:

- 📱 **Electronic devices**: Apps, specialized tablets
- 📋 **Picture systems**: PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System)
- ✋ **Sign language**: ASL, LSM
- 👆 **Gestures**: Pointing, nodding
- 💬 **Communication boards**: Printed images

## Myths about AAC (All FALSE!)

### ❌ Myth 1: "AAC will prevent my child from speaking"
✅ **Reality**: AAC **facilitates** speech development. Studies show that children who use AAC are **more likely** to develop verbal speech.

### ❌ Myth 2: "They must try to speak first, AAC is a last resort"
✅ **Reality**: AAC should be introduced **as soon as possible**. Waiting only causes frustration and delays.

### ❌ Myth 3: "AAC is only for completely non-verbal children"
✅ **Reality**: AAC benefits children with limited, unclear, or inconsistent speech.

## Types of AAC Systems

### 1. Unaided AAC
Doesn't require external tools:
- Sign language
- Natural gestures
- Facial expressions

### 2. Low-Tech AAC
- **PECS**: Picture card exchange
- **Communication boards**: Posters with symbols
- **Communication notebooks**: Books with vocabulary

### 3. High-Tech AAC
- **AAC Apps**: Proloquo2Go, TD Snap, **Artie**
- **Dedicated devices**: Tobii Dynavox, Accent
- **Eye-tracking**: For children with limited mobility

## How to Choose the Right AAC System?

Consider:

### Motor Skills
- Can they point with their finger?
- Can they manipulate cards?
- Do they need eye-tracking?

### Cognitive Skills
- Do they understand cause-and-effect?
- Do they recognize pictures/symbols?
- Can they learn complex navigation?

### Environment
- Where will they use AAC? (school, home, community)
- Who will support them? (parents, teachers, therapists)
- Available budget?

## AAC Implementation: Step by Step

### Phase 1: Assessment (1-2 weeks)
- Speech therapist evaluation
- Testing different systems
- Identifying core vocabulary

### Phase 2: Introduction (1 month)
- Constant modeling by adults
- Direct instruction on use
- Reinforcement of communicative attempts

### Phase 3: Expansion (2-6 months)
- Gradually add vocabulary
- Teach basic grammar
- Generalize to different contexts

### Phase 4: Maintenance (Ongoing)
- Vocabulary updates
- Adjustments as needed
- Expansion of communicative functions

## Core vs. Fringe Vocabulary

### Core Vocabulary (80% of use)
Words we use constantly:
- I, you, want, more, help
- yes, no, go, see, do
- mom, dad, here, there

### Fringe Vocabulary (20% of use)
Child-specific words:
- dinosaur, minecraft, pizza
- family members' names
- particular interests

**Tip**: Start with **core vocabulary** for maximum impact.

## Recommended AAC Apps

### For Spanish
- **Artie**: AI-assisted communication (free with premium)
- **Proloquo2Go**: Market leader ($250 USD)
- **TD Snap**: Excellent for Spanish ($300 USD)

### For English
- **TouchChat**: Very complete ($150-$300 USD)
- **LAMP Words for Life**: Motor-based ($300 USD)
- **Predictable**: Simple and effective ($160 USD)

## Is AAC Free with Insurance?

In the **United States**:
- Medicare/Medicaid: Usually cover AAC devices
- Private insurance: Many cover with medical prescription
- Schools: Must provide AAC if it's in the IEP

In **Mexico/Latin America**:
- Private insurance: Variable coverage
- Public: Limited
- Apps: Most accessible option

## Involving the Family

For AAC to work, **the whole family** must:

1. **Model**: Use AAC to communicate with the child
2. **Wait**: Give time to respond
3. **Reinforce**: Celebrate every communicative attempt
4. **Be consistent**: Have AAC available 24/7

## Signs of Success

You'll know AAC is working when your child:

- ✅ Uses the device spontaneously
- ✅ Expresses needs and wants
- ✅ Comments about their environment
- ✅ Initiates communication (doesn't just respond)
- ✅ Gets frustrated less

## Resources

- **ASHA.org**: AAC guides
- **AAC Institute**: Scientific information
- **Artie App**: Free assistive communication

Give your child the voice they deserve! AAC can transform their life. 💙