When children understand that a message can be conveyed to another person, we call them intentional or symbolic communicators. The “symbol” they use to communicate could be a word, but could also be a gesture, a picture or the use of a communication device – the important distinction is that the child is deliberate in communicating a specific message. For children who cannot use speech effectively, we often support them using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).

The content of this section will provide you with strategies you can use to support your AAC or first words/symbol user at home.

AAC supports can include paper-based (or no tech) systems (e.g., choice boards, picture symbols), simple (or lite tech) technology (e.g., pushing a button for a single message) and/or complex (or high tech) technology (e.g., “talker” or iPad). Often children use a combination of different systems, either for different reasons or in different situations (e.g., a laminated paper system would be better than an iPad when you are at the pool!). Evidence has shown that using AAC does not negatively affect the child’s ability to learn or use speech but can reduce frustration by giving them a way to communicate.