Myths and Facts Regarding AAC
AAC is commonly used in speech and language therapy to help our clients expand their vocabulary and overall communication.
What is AAC?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. According to the American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA), “AAC is an area of clinical practice that supplements or compensates for impairments in speech-language production and/or comprehension, including spoken and written modes of communication. AAC falls under the broader umbrella of assistive technology, or the use of any equipment, tool, or strategy to improve functional daily living in individuals with disabilities or limitations. "In simpler terms, AAC can be used with individuals who may need assistance with communication. AAC can include all augmentative and alternative forms of communication, from picture cards and gestures to iPads or other speech generating devices.
Who is AAC for?
AAC can be used by anyone! There are no specific criteria that must be met to be able to benefit from alternative forms of communication. In fact, AAC is used with both children and adults across the lifespan. Anyone who is having difficulty meeting their communication needs, may benefit from using AAC.
So, what are some common myths surrounding AAC?
We know that the prospect of using AAC can be scary or daunting, so we are here to break down some common misconceptions regarding the use of alternative forms of communication.
Myth #1 - AAC should be used as a “last resort” in speech/language therapy
- False! According to multiple studies, AAC can play many roles in the development of early communication, including the development of natural speech (Cress & Marvin, 2003; Adamson et al, 2010)
- Instead of waiting out your child’s speech/language development, consider including AAC here and now to support current communication needs TODAY
Myth #2 – AAC stops further speech/language development
- False! In reality, AAC may allow for greater gains in speech/language development when compared to traditional approaches alone (Walters et al., 2021; Adamson et al., 2010; Beukelman & Mirenda, 1998)
- Spoken language interventions can be used in conjunction with AAC to give children the most opportunities for communication
Myth #3 – Children must have certain skills or cognitive abilities to use AAC and speech generating devices
- False! AAC can actually aid with cognitive gains, and children as young as two years old with cognitive delays have learned to use speech generating devices (Romski et al., 2010; Cress, 2003; Draeger)
- Remember, communication is a human right and is medically necessary! Assume competence, and never take the ability to communicate away from anyone.
Myth #4 – Children must reach a certain age before using AAC
- False! There is no research to support this claim. AAC facilitates language development, independence, self-determination, and social interaction.
- Start early!
Where do we go from here?
AAC plays an important role in communication and overall development. We should assume competence and give our kiddos every opportunity to express their wants/needs. Do you have questions about your child using AAC? If so, reach out to your speech therapist to learn more!
By: Tara Shingleton, MS, CCC-SLP, adapted from a powerpoint by Melissa Cheslock, MS, CCC-SLP
