Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is an area of clinical practice that addresses the needs of individuals with significant and complex communication disorders characterized by impairments in speech-language production and/or comprehension, including spoken and written modes of communication. (Source).

AAC uses a variety of techniques and tools, including picture communication boards, line drawings, speech-generating devices (SGDs), tangible objects, manual signs, gestures, and fingerspelling, to help the individual express thoughts, wants and needs, feelings, and ideas. (Source).

Home practice activities:

• Listen to music: you can work on modeling for your child with his/her iPad or communication book. We can all connect to a nice song. Use this opportunity to take turns picking a song practice finding the following core/fringe words: I like it, more, don’t like, different, do again, all done, dance, sing, cool song, go, stop, finished

Tip: If you are using Proloque2go application on the iPad use the “search” feature to find these words

• Duck, Duck, Goose: play the game modeling the following core words: up, down, stand up, sit down, fast, run around, my turn, your turn, stop, go, more

• Hand held sensory toy/fan: you can practice requesting/commenting (e.g., Where do you want the fan? Neck or face?), if he/she does not respond you could make a choice. Model on the iPad where you’re going to place the fan or sensory toy (e.g., I’m going to place it on your neck, model on the iPad - “neck” and then place the fan/sensory toy there. Any negative reactions you could model “don’t like”, “all done”. Any positive reactions you could model “like it”, “more”.

Websites for low-tech visual support systems:

• Free printable visual schedules

• Self-care visual supports

• ​Choice boards to print