AAC stands for augmentative and alternative communication. It can be used to supplement spoken language or as an alternative when speech is not a reliable form of communication or does not fully meet someone’s daily communication needs.
One common concern from parents when AAC is discussed is that it will prevent their child from learning to speak. Research suggests that AAC does not hinder spoken language development and may even support spoken language acquisition (Millar et al.,2006).
AAC can also supplement communication for individuals who use spoken language but may be difficult to understand, such as some individuals who have motor speech disorders. AAC does not have to replace spoken language it can be partnered with spoken language to support communication and repair communication breakdowns!
Low tech AAC: This often looks like a sheet of paper or a communication board with a variety of pictures, symbols, or words that an individual can point to in order to communicate.
High-tech AAC: This often involves a tablet, such as an iPad, with a speech generating app installed on it. Some examples of speech generating apps are Proloquo2go, GRID, and LAMP Words for Life.
Some AAC apps cost $149-$300 or more, not including the cost of the iPad itself. However, please do not let the cost discourage you from exploring high-tech AAC options!
If you have insurance, you may have options for funding a device. There are companies that specialize in helping families navigate insurance benefits, determine funding eligibility, and access devices. Depending on your insurance plan, some families may qualify for a device with little to no out-of-pocket cost. These devices also often come with a warranty if your child breaks the device, something goes wrong with the software or just about anything else they will replace it!
Here are several companies who help families and SLPs to complete benefit checks with insurance:
First, I want to commend you for considering AAC for your child! Considering additional ways to support your child’s communication is an important step.
I encourage you to schedule an appointment with a speech-language pathologist (SLP), even if you decide to complete the insurance benefit check or funding process yourself.
An SLP can help you determine which AAC system may best fit your child’s communication needs, set up and customize the device, and teach you evidence-based strategies to support your child learning how to use their AAC.
AAC is not just an iPad, it gives your child more ways to express their wants, needs, thoughts, feelings, and personality.
Every child deserves to have a reliable way to communicate. You do not have to navigate the journey to getting an AAC device alone!
Reference:
Millar, D. C., Light, J. C., & Schlosser, R. W. (2006). The impact of augmentative and alternative communication intervention on the speech production of individuals with developmental disabilities: A research review. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, 49(2), 248–264. https://doi.org/10.1044/1092-4388(2006/021)
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