Tips and Tricks for AAC

Model, model, model!

Provide the child with language on the AAC device so that they can get more exposure to it. Talk about what you are doing and what the child is doing. When modeling you are "talking" with the device, so say the sentence aloud while modeling on the device.

The power of wait time!

Provide the child with an opportunity to use the device. You can even ask open ended questions and wait for a response. If the response takes over 1 minute, then provide a model of what the response could be.

Avoid hand over hand prompting!

This often leads to prompt dependence instead of spontaneous language. Give it time. We don't expect babies when they are first learning language to say words immediately, so let's provide that same opportunity to our kids with AAC.

Accessibility!

Always allow the device to be seen and accessible to your child. You can think of AAC as your child's voice or a second language for your child. Give them the ability to access that.

Honor all communication!

If your child uses gestures, verbal words, sign language or anything else to communicate, honor that! Don't force them to use the AAC in place of that communication.

Schedule speech therapy services for more training on how to effectively promote AAC for your child!