AAC Awareness Month

Celebrating AAC Awareness Month

October is AAC Awareness Month, a time to celebrate the many ways people communicate beyond spoken words. As speech-language pathologists, we see every day how augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) can give children a way to express their wants, needs, thoughts, and personalities. AAC does not prevent or delay speech. In fact, research shows that AAC can support language development and may even help children who are developing spoken language. Another important fact is that AAC is not just a device. It can include gestures, signs, pictures, communication boards, and speech-generating devices. Every child deserves access to a reliable way to communicate, and AAC can help make sure their voice is heard.

A practical takeaway for parents: If your child uses a speech generating device, make AAC part of everyday life! Keep your child’s communication system within reach and model using it during routines like mealtime, play, getting dressed, or going to the park. You don’t need to ask your child to “use your AAC.” Instead, show them how you use it by pointing to words or icons while you talk. The more children see AAC being used naturally and without pressure, the more opportunities they have to learn that it is a powerful way to communicate.

Visit ISAAC for more information- ISAAC is the International Society for Augmenative and Alternative Communicaiton.