"Not being able to speak isn’t the same as having nothing to say."
This AAC app comes with pre-programmed vocabulary sets which are research-based and customizable making it appropriate for a range of fine-motor and visual skills. The Proloquo2Go is a symbol-based AAC platform. It is designed as a tool to build daily communication and language skills for those with speech challenges by giving them access to 14,000+ symbols along with the option to add your own photos.
Price: CA$349.99
“Every voice should be heard”
This is a symbol-based AAC app that is open-source and built to empower communicators and their teams. CoughDrop can be configured to meet the different levels of users. Boards can be personalized with large or small buttons along with symbol sets, images, photos, user-recorded audio, etc. CoughDrop works on multiple devices such as tablets, smartphones, and computers. Parents, therapists, teachers, can be linked to the communicator's boards from their own devices so they can modify boards without taking away the device, model forming phrases, and have access to the built-in reporting tools.
Price: After 2 months free trial, there is the option for ~CA$7/month or ~CA$250 lifetime purchase.
"Changing the world, one voice at a time."
This is a symbol-based AAC app designed by two speech pathologists with an evidence-based foundation. Speak for Yourself allows people with speech challenges to build their usage from one word to almost 14,000 words with no more than two touches to say a word. This AAC app is based on motor learning principles where words never change position. It uses research-based core vocabulary and supports the development of automaticity and language. Speak for Yourself can be personalized with images, photos, and vocabulary.
Price: CA$399.99
This is a symbol and text-based AAC app designed for people with conditions that affect their ability to use natural speech. TouchChat HD is used to form words and phrases and can be configured to meet the needs of the individual. This AAC app has over 10,000 symbols and pre-programmed vocabulary sets, uses spelling and word prediction, and can be customized using photos, images, and words. Text in the message window can be shared via email, Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and text message.
Price: CA$399.99
LAMP stands for Language Acquisition through Motor Planning. This AAC app is based on neurological and motor learning principles that supports language development and communication needs of individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. The structure and 3,000+ vocabulary are research-based. LAMP provides a consistent motor pattern for each word to develop automaticity. Users can get to any word with a maximum of 3 touches. This AAC app uses symbols paired with text to support literacy development. There are three vocabulary levels to support language development for any skill level. LAMP is customizable using personalized vocabulary, images, and photos.
Price: CA$399.99
There are currently a number of low tech options available such as American Sign Language (ASL) and Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) that help students communicate. Both ASL and PECS, however, offer drawbacks for the user as most of the general public do not understand sign language and hundreds of PECS cards are cumbersome to carry around. Thus, while ASL and PECS may be viable options for some, the majority of K-12 students who have little or no speech will benefit by using an AAC App as their primary communication method. With an average price of $500, the AAC App is not inexpensive. However, as most AAC users will use their AAC apps on an everyday basis for a number of years, the purchase price of $500 transforms this investment into a very worthwhile and useful purchase.