What Is Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC)?

Augmentative and Alternative Communication is also known as AAC. It’s the term used for all the different ways someone can communicate when speech is difficult or not possible.

In speech and language therapy, AAC is used to support or sometimes replace speech, giving people a way to share their needs, thoughts, and feelings.

AAC can look very different depending on the person. It might be unaided AAC, which uses what we already have, like gestures, facial expressions, or signing. Or low tech AAC, which is simple tools such as picture cards, communication boards, or symbol charts. Finally, there’s high tech AAC, which uses devices and apps, like tablets with communication software or speech-generating devices.

Why We Use It In Speech & Language Therapy

AAC is often used by people who find talking difficult, whether that’s because of autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, developmental language difficulties, or after something like a stroke or brain injury.

The benefits are huge. It gives people a voice when they can’t always use speech, reduces frustration by offering a reliable way to communicate, and helps build language, literacy, and social skills. Most importantly, AAC supports independence and makes it easier to take part in everyday life.

How it Works

In speech and language therapy, introducing AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) is often thought of as a journey with different stages. The exact steps can vary depending on the individual, but therapists generally move through these key stages:

Assessment & Exploration

First, the therapist gets to know the young person. Finding out what they enjoy, what’s tricky about communication, and what might help. Exploring different AAC options, from simple picture cards to high tech devices.

Introduction of AAC

Next, the AAC system is introduced in a gentle way. It starts with really useful words like ‘more’, ‘stop’, or ‘help’, and the therapist shows how it can be used in everyday moments. The focus is on making AAC feel like a real voice, not just a therapy tool.

Modelling & Guided Practice

Therapists and communication partners use AAC alongside their own speech. Pointing to symbols or pressing buttons as they talk. This shows the young person how it works, without putting pressure on them to copy right away.

Building Confidence

As the young person gets more familiar, their vocabulary grows. They learn to use AAC for more than just asking for things. They can share feelings, ask questions, join in conversations, or even tell stories.

Independence

The aim is for AAC to be used everywhere. In their education setting, at school, out in the community, so communication feels natural and empowering. Caregivers and staff are supported too, so AAC really becomes part of daily life.