AAC in Early Intervention: Exploring Communication Options for Toddlers

Photo credit: Speech Stars Branding https://www.pediatricspeechstars.com/shop

At Multimodal Communication Speech Clinic P.C., we believe every child deserves a way to express their wants, needs, thoughts, and feelings. For some children, spoken language does not develop along the typical timeline, or may not fully meet their communication needs. When a child struggles to express themselves verbally, it can impact their ability to effectively communicate their needs. In these cases, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) may help children develop foundational language and communication skills, particularly when verbal speech is limited or delayed (Romski et al., 2015).

What is AAC?

AAC includes any tool or strategy that supports communication. It can be:

• No-tech: Gestures, facial expressions, sign language

• Low-tech: Picture boards, communication books

• High-tech: Tablets that contain software apps like LAMP Words for Life or Proloquo2Go, speech-generating devices

AAC doesn’t replace spoken language, it supports it.

Who May Benefit from AAC?

Children who:

• Are not yet speaking or using very few words

• Have diagnoses like autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, or apraxia

• Use mostly gestures or behaviors to communicate

• Experience frustration due to limited expressive language

Common Myths

• Myth: “If we use AAC, my child won’t learn to talk.” Truth: AAC supports language development. Many children may begin using more spoken words after AAC is introduced.

• Myth: “AAC is only for children who will never talk.” Truth: AAC is a bridge where some children use it temporarily, and others use it alongside speech throughout their lives.

How AAC May Support Your Child’s Communication

• Several studies have shown that AAC can play a valuable role in supporting language development in children between the ages of 1 and 3 (Branson & Demchak, 2009; Romski et al., 2010; Solomon-Rice & Soto, 2014 as cited in Lorang et al., 2022).

• Research has shown that using AAC can help children under age 3 begin using more words to express themselves (Romski et al., 2010; Solomon Rice & Soto, 2014; Wright et al., 2013; Yoder & Stone, 2006 as cited in  Lorang et al., 2022).

• AAC can also help preschool- and school-aged children with language delays better understand and use language. It can support their ability to combine words, build sentences, and develop early grammar skills s (Binger & Light, 2007; Brady, 2000; Drager et al., 2006; Kasari et al., 2014 as cited in Lorang et al., 2022).

• Some AAC systems use pictures or symbols, which can make it easier for children to understand language and connect meaning to words (Lorang et al., 2022).

• AAC can also support children who have difficulty speaking, such as those with apraxia or speech sound challenges, by giving them a clearer way to communicate. It can help them get their message across, and even support their ability to put words together and build simple sentences using pictures or symbols (Lorang et al., 2022).

How Young Is Too Young? Introducing AAC in Early Intervention

Research has shown that introducing AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) before the age of 3 can be incredibly helpful for young children who have trouble using words to communicate, especially when parents are involved in the process from the start (Romski et al., 2010, 2015, as cited in Lorang et al., 2022). What this means for you is that you are a key part of your child’s communication journey. We’ll work together to find the AAC system that feels like the best fit, not just for your child, but for your whole family. We’ll support you in learning how to use it during everyday routines like mealtime, playtime, or getting ready for bed. We’ll also make sure your questions are answered, your concerns are heard, and that the AAC system works for your unique family life.

What Does AAC Look Like in Our Clinic?

Our clinicians individualize AAC support based on your child’s needs. We:

• Assess their communication strengths and needs

• Introduce low- and/or high-tech tools

• Teach families how to model language with AAC throughout daily routines

• Partner with families to make AAC natural and empowering

Common AAC Software Options: A Starting Point for Families

Below is a non-exhaustive list of commonly used AAC software programs. Please note: The best tool for your child depends on their individual communication needs, motor abilities, and support system. Always consult with your treating Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) to determine the most appropriate AAC system.

• LAMP Words for Life 

• Proloquo2Go

• TD Snap

• TouchChat HD with WordPower

• CoughDrop

• Avaz AAC

• Speak for Yourself

How Do I Know Which AAC App is Right for My Child?

At Multimodal Communication Speech Clinic P.C., we offer comprehensive AAC evaluations to determine the most appropriate communication supports for your child.

Want to learn more? Read our blog: The Difference Between a Speech and Language Evaluation and an AAC Assessment

References:

Lorang, E., Maltman, N., Venker, C., Eith, A., & Sterling, A. (2022). Speech-language pathologists’ practices in augmentative and alternative communication during early intervention. American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 32(2), 578–594. https://doi.org/10.1044/2022_AJSLP-22-00036

Romski, M., Sevcik, R. A., Barton-Hulsey, A., & Whitmore, A. S. (2015). Early intervention and AAC: What a difference 30 years makes. Augmentative and Alternative Communication, 31(3), 181–202. https://doi.org/10.3109/07434618.2015.1064163

Disclaimer: As a speech-language pathologist, I'm here to provide educational and informational content, but I'm not your personal healthcare provider. The content on this platform is intended solely for educational purposes and does not constitute the provision of medical or professional services. The information shared here should not be used for diagnosing or treating medical conditions. It's crucial to always consult with your doctor or another qualified healthcare professional for guidance on any health-related concerns. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it due to information you've come across on this account. Multimodal Communication Speech Clinic makes no express or implied representations regarding the information provided here or its use.