At Speech & Occupational Therapy of North Texas,, our pediatric speech-language pathologists specialize in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to support children who have difficulty using spoken language. AAC provides tools and strategies to help children communicate effectively, express their needs, and participate fully in daily life.
What Is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)?
AAC includes methods and tools used to support or replace spoken language. It can be used temporarily or long-term, depending on a child’s needs.
AAC systems may include:
- Picture communication boards
- Communication books
- Tablet-based communication apps
- Speech-generating devices
- Sign language
- Gestures
AAC does not prevent verbal speech—in fact, research shows AAC often supports speech and language development.
Who Can Benefit From AAC?
AAC may benefit children with:
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Childhood apraxia of speech
- Cerebral palsy
- Developmental delays
- Genetic syndromes
- Traumatic brain injury
- Severe expressive language delays
Any child who struggles to communicate verbally can benefit from AAC support.
How Speech Therapy Helps
Our speech-language pathologists provide comprehensive AAC evaluations to determine the best system for each child’s abilities and needs.
Therapy May Focus On:
✔ Selecting the appropriate AAC system
✔ Teaching functional communication
✔ Requesting wants and needs
✔ Building vocabulary
✔ Forming phrases and sentences
✔ Improving turn-taking and social communication
✔ Navigating devices independently
Individualized AAC Treatment
We:
- Customize AAC systems to match motor, visual, and cognitive abilities
- Program vocabulary that is meaningful and motivating
- Teach children how to use AAC across environments
- Provide caregiver and teacher training
- Support consistent carryover at home and school
Benefits of AAC Therapy
AAC helps children:
✔ Communicate effectively
✔ Reduce frustration
✔ Build social connections
✔ Increase independence
✔ Participate in school and home activities
✔ Develop language skills
