Amazing Ways AAC Can Improve Communication for Your Child

Coping with Communication Challenges

One of the most difficult aspects of raising a child with autism is coping with their inability to speak. As a mother, I recall hoping and praying that my son would eventually develop speech. I often reassured myself that in time, perhaps by the next holiday or birthday, the words would come.However, the speech never arrived. The longing grew deeper during tearful moments over Christmas shopping or grocery trips where other children made their wishes known. Despite my efforts at modeling speech and encouraging my son, Patrick, the attempts only led to feelings of helplessness and frustration.

For any parent going through such experiences, the journey can feel isolating. But knowing that numerous other families face these challenges can often provide a semblance of solace. Alarmingly, approximately 30 percent of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) do not develop functional speech. Many parents find themselves overwhelmed and in search of ways to empower their children with a voice.Our journey, albeit wrought with obstacles, presented opportunities to learn and grow. Patrick, who initially communicated through sign language, has now graduated to using a communication app, Proloquo2Go. Witnessing his evolution from a shy child to a communicative 15-year-old has been an inspiring transformation.

Discovering AAC: Bridging the Gap

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) encompasses various methods designed to assist individuals who struggle with verbal speech. AAC systems can be multi-faceted, incorporating symbols, signs, gestures, spoken words, visual schedules, and speech-generating devices. There are both unaided systems (like sign language) and aided systems (such as picture cards and speech-generating devices).For a child effectively to utilize AAC, they need to be introduced to both core and fringe vocabulary, which grows as they encounter new experiences. Core vocabulary comprises essential words used in daily communication, including verbs, pronouns, and prepositions. Conversely, fringe vocabulary, which constitutes personalized words, is used less often but holds personal significance for the child.

To foster a child's functional communication, they need access to a dynamic and expansive language system. This system should contain words and phrases relevant to their daily life—ensuring it’s meaningful and motivating for them.The introduction of AAC in Patrick's life has been transformative. While his first "words" using sign language were simple requests for food and toys, he now primarily uses Proloquo2Go to articulate more complex thoughts and needs.

Benefits of AAC

The advantages of AAC extend beyond mere speech. It enriches receptive language, diminishes frustration, empowers children, facilitates social interactions, supports cognitive skills, and enhances overall engagement in life.A critical part of AAC implementation involves thorough assessments. These evaluations must be ongoing and include input from everyone in the child's life—from family members to therapists. Establishing an effective AAC plan and evolving it with the child’s progress is pivotal.

AAC is not static; it constantly evolves. New vocabulary is incorporated and programmed into the device as the child grows. This process ensures the child can formulate grammatically correct sentences and engage in genuine communication. Alongside their device, children need laminated copies of essential vocabulary as a backup, ensuring they are never without their voice.The AAC environment should be rich in symbols, words, schedules, and supportive partners who encourage and honor all communication attempts. A calm, inclusive setting facilitates this, allowing children the time they need to respond and communicate effectively.

The Role of Communication Partners

Communication partners are integral to enhancing a child's language skills. Communication, a dynamic process, serves multiple purposes—from fulfilling needs to establishing social connections. One effective method is Aided Language Stimulation, where spoken language is paired with the AAC system.Modeling language on the device actively demonstrates its value and usage. Emerging AAC users rely heavily on this modeling and input before they become proficient. Supportive partners must always presume competence, assuming the child understands and knows more than they can express.

By modeling grammatically correct utterances and varying language functions during daily activities, both at home and in the community, children can learn authentic language skills. Using strategies such as expansions, where additional information is modeled on what the child already expresses, further enriches their communication.Learning to navigate the device, discovering its limitations, and empathizing with the child's experience underscores the importance of using the AAC system ourselves. Becoming active users helps us better support our children.

Creating Communication Opportunities

Creating multiple communication opportunities throughout the day involves designing situations that inspire the child to use AAC. This might mean placing toys out of reach or engaging in activities that require requesting help. Structured yet natural interactions, such as watching videos or sharing stories, provide rich contexts for conversation.Examples include:

• Requesting: “I need help; I want an apple.”
• Commenting: “I like that; No, leave me alone.”
• Describing: “Orange popsicle; The cookie is delicious.”
• Numeracy: “I want two cookies; More water, please.”
• Etiquette: “Hi, nice to see you; Thank you.”

These structured yet spontaneous opportunities enable children to hear, see, and practice communication in varied settings. The concept of modeling communication “in the moment” ensures children grasp authentic language use.By integrating AAC into everyday life, from home to community, and including everyone in the child's life in this approach, we significantly foster their communicative growth.

Empowering through AAC

Empowering our children with the means to communicate is a profound act of love and dedication. The voice that AAC provides them is more than a tool—it’s a bridge to be heard, understood, and included in their community. For resources and more information on AAC, please visit PrAACtical AAC, Joanne M. Cafiero’s website, or AssistiveWare. Download your FREE guide on Assistive Communication Devices for Children with Autism. Dive into the enriching world of AAC and discover how it can transform your child’s life.