(When I think about AAC — Augmentative and Alternative Communication — I don’t think about devices, but it could be any mode- Pecs, symbols, signs, writing, typing, or pictures. I think about real children I’ve met in my therapy room over the last twenty years. Children who came in quietly, sometimes anxiously, sometimes full of ideas trapped in their minds… just waiting for a way to be understood.
AAC, for me, has always been less about technology and more about liberation.
A way of saying: “Your voice belongs here, even if it sounds different.”
I still remember a little boy I worked with many years ago. Bright eyes, full of curiosity, but not a single functional word. His mother once told me, “I know he understands everything, but I just wish the world could see who he is.” When we introduced AAC, something changed. He pressed “more bubbles” on his device for the first time, looked up at me, and smiled. And that moment — that simple two-word request — opened the floodgates. His personality, his humor, his preferences… everything started emerging.
That is the magic of AAC.
AAC is not a last resort — it’s an early bridge to communication
One of the biggest myths I still encounter is:
“If we give AAC, will it stop my child from talking?”
In my career, I have never seen AAC stop speech development. In fact, AAC does the opposite — it supports speech, reduces frustration, and gives children the confidence to attempt words without fear.
Imagine being in a foreign country where you understand their language but cannot express a single thought. If someone handed you a tool to communicate, would it make you stop trying to speak their language?
Of course not.
It would help you survive, connect, and learn faster and mainly you will be able to communicate. How symbols help you on the road while driving or walking? Think about it.
That is what AAC does for our children who are not able to communicate even though they know what they want to say
AAC is for anyone who needs it — not just non-speaking children
Over the years, I’ve used AAC with:
- autistic children who speak but aren’t yet functional communicators
- children with echolalia and GLP-Gestalt Language Processors
- kids with Down syndrome working on grammar and clarity
- children with apraxia who need motor planning support
- language-delayed toddlers who need a boost in requesting and commenting
The goal is always the same:
to give them a reliable way to communicate right now — not “one day when they talk.”
AAC is more than a device — it’s a shared language
Parents often imagine AAC as a tool the child uses alone.
But in reality, AAC works only when adults model it.
I’ve modelled AAC while sitting on the floor during play, during snack time, while reading books, and even during meltdowns ( sometimes it did wonders in regulating the child instantly when modelled exactly what they want to say at that moment). And I’ve recommended and suggested it to every parent I’ve worked with:
“Your child learns AAC the same way they learn spoken language — by watching you use it first.” SO MODEL
When families start modelling, something shifts. Children begin showing more initiative, more clarity, more confidence.
Why AAC matters so deeply
Because it gives access.
Because it gives dignity.
Because it gives a voice.
I’ve seen children go from hitting and crying to pressing “I’m finished” or “Help me”.
I’ve seen parents cry tears of relief when their child independently says “hug mum” on their device.
I’ve seen teenagers use AAC to talk about feelings, friendships, and even bullying.
AAC is not “just a therapy technique.”
It is an act of empowerment.
And if you’re just starting your AAC journey as a parent or professional, I want you to remember this:
Every child communicates. AAC simply gives them the tools to be heard.
AAC comes in many different forms, and each one supports communication in a unique way. Some children begin with PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), where they hand over pictures to express needs. Others benefit from Makaton, a combination of speech, signs, and symbols that helps strengthen understanding along with expression. Many of my learners start with simple picture boards or visual choice cards, which give them a quick, accessible way to communicate during daily routines. For children who enjoy letters or have emerging literacy skills, writing or typing can become a powerful AAC pathway. And then we have Speech Generating Devices (SGDs)—apps or dedicated devices that speak aloud when a child selects words or symbols. Whether low-tech or high-tech, every AAC system has the same goal: to give a child a reliable way to express themselves, participate, and be understood.
If you’re wondering what kind of AAC apps might work best for your child or student, I’ve put together a simple breakdown that compares free, low-cost, and paid AAC apps options—full-robust communication devices. This guide will help you understand what each type offers, what to look for, and how to choose something that matches your child’s needs and your family’s comfort level.
👉 Read the full guide here: Types of AAC apps(Free & Paid)