Speech devices help children communicate more effectively, supporting their needs, thoughts, and emotions while improving social interactions and independence.
Augmentative
and Alternative Communication (AAC)
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a way for children to communicate when speech isn’t their primary method of expression. AAC can range from high-tech solutions, like speech-generating devices, to low-tech options such as pictures, sign language, or devices with recorded messages.
AAC is used either temporarily, while speech skills develop, or long-term for children with disabilities such as autism or cerebral palsy. It helps children express their needs, reduce frustration, and improve social interactions, while also preventing inappropriate behaviors.
At Advanced Therapy Clinic, our Speech and Language Team works closely with parents and children, offering assessments, consultations, and therapy to support effective use of AAC devices.
Benefits of Speech Devices
AAC can help children to improve their ability to interact with others and communicate at home, in school, and in the community. It can help your child to participate in school and become more independent.
Using AAC can also decrease inappropriate behaviors, such as tantrums, crying and whining. These behaviors are often due to the child’s difficulty and frustration with their inability to communicate and express themselves.
Common Concerns For Parents
Many parents worry that using an AAC system will prevent their child from developing speech, but AAC does not interfere with speech development. In fact, it can support and even enhance speech skills by giving children a way to communicate and reducing frustration.
Research shows that AAC helps children develop oral speech, and they typically start using it less as they gain the necessary oral-motor skills for speech.
How Parents Can Help
The purpose of AAC is to teach the child another way to communicate. Just as adults provide models of speech that help their children learn to talk, parents also need to provide models when the child is learning to use AAC.
Parents may be asked to use the pictures, communication book, or speaking device themselves to help the child learn. This is called aided language stimulation.
Parents may also need to learn how to program a high-tech communication device. As with learning any new skill, frequent practice between therapy sessions is important so the child is able to use AAC in everyday communication. The parents and SLP may identify specific times for the family to work with the child at home.
How Do I Determine The Best AAC Device For My Child?
Choosing the right AAC device for a child is a process that requires the expertise of a Speech Language Pathologist familiar with AAC. It’s important to note that not all therapists specialize in AAC assessments, but at Advanced Therapy Clinic, we have a dedicated team with extensive experience in this area.
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Billings
1701 Ave E Suite A Billings, MT 59102
Butte
2100 Harrison Ave Suite C Butte, MT 59701
Missoula
