According to the American Speech and Hearing Association, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is an area of clinical practice that supplements or compensates for impairments in speech-language production and/or comprehension, including spoken and written modes of communication. AAC is augmentative when used to supplement existing speech, and alternative when used in place of speech that is absent or not functional. 

AAC can improve social interactions, provide participation options and access to curriculum and instruction, support young adults as they transition into the community and/or work force, and increase overall independence. Early identification and implementation of an AAC system is crucial to supporting the development of overall communication skills! 

These supports exist on a continuum from no tech to high tech and should be customized to the individual user. 

There are NO prerequisite skills required for AAC!

The addition of AAC can SUPPORT and ENHANCE the development of speech!

AAC can benefit ANYONE who has communication delays, including those with some verbal speech!

To read more about common myths and research that debunks them check out this resource from TobiiDynavox