Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

 Augmentative and Alternative Communication, or AAC, describes any  non-speaking means of communicating. Augmentative specifically refers to  strategies that enhance verbal communication, while Alternative refers  to strategies that are used instead of oral language.  

AAC includes no-tech and/or low-tech strategies such as gestures,  picture symbols, core word paper boards, spelling boards, or writing.  High-tech solutions include the use of apps or computer-based systems,  usually with voice output, to create a robust communication system.  

Some AAC communicators use their strategies full-time while others  use them only for a short time or to support communication in specific  settings or scenarios.  

Children and adults with speech or language challenges may benefit from the use of a dedicated AAC system to provide them with a way to communicate, to supplement their existing speech, or replace speech that is not functional.  

Our skilled therapists are able to provide AAC evaluations, recommend an appropriate  AAC system, and implement AAC with clients and their families.  The goal of AAC implementation at Speech in Motion is to provide clients with  limited verbal skills with the most appropriate system to allow them to  say what they want to say as efficiently as possible in all environments.