Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC)
Every Child Deserves to be Heard
AAC helps children share their thoughts, needs, and feelings using pictures, signs, gestures, or simple tools. When we give children more ways to communicate, we help them connect, learn, and grow. Communication is for everyone. AAC helps make that possible.
Try This at Home
Helping Your Child Communicate Every Day
Simple Ways to Build Communication Using Pictures, Signs, Gestures and Expressions
Keep communication tools close
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Keep your child’s picture cards or communication book nearby on the table, bed, or wall.
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Use gestures, pointing, or signs often so your child sees and practices them in daily routines like eating, playing, or getting dressed.
Model and show
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Use the same gestures, signs, or pictures while you talk: point to eat, drink, go, or more as you say the words.
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Let your child see your face and be expressionate! Smile, frown or look surprised so they learn how expressions also communicate meaning.
Create chances to communicate
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Offer a choice: “Do you want banana or bread?” then show the two pictures or items.
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Pause and wait - give your child time to point, look, or gesture.
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Play games that encourage turns and choices, like songs with actions or peek-a-boo.
Be the communication partner
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Sit close and look at your child’s face. Respond to any attempt to communicate through eye gaze, sound, or gesture.
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Encourage brothers, sisters, and family members to use the same signs and pictures so everyone helps.
Use it often
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Repeat signs, pictures, or gestures throughout the day all around the environment - in the kitchen, outside, at bath time and more.
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Short, frequent practice helps your child remember and use them naturally.
📣 Celebrate communication
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Praise any effort: “You showed me ‘drink!’ Great talking!”
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Repeat what your child said with excitement - this shows their message is important.
📌 Quick Checklist
☐ Pictures or signs are within reach
☐ I use gestures and facial expressions when I talk
☐ I pause and give time for my child to respond
☐ I create choices and chances to communicate
☐ Our family uses the same pictures or signs
☐ I celebrate every attempt to communicate
🌟 Quick Facts About AAC
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication ways to communicate besides talking.
AAC can be used by anyone who has difficulty speaking including children and adults, temporarily or long-term.
AAC doesn’t replace speech, it adds to it! Many children begin talking more once they have a reliable way to express themselves.
AAC grows with your child. It can start with simple pictures, gestures, or signs and expand as skills develop.
Consistency is key. Using AAC at home, school, and in the community helps communication become part of everyday life.
Parents are the best models. When you use the pictures, gestures, or device along with your child, they learn faster and feel supported.
AAC Myths and Truths
Myth: Using AAC will stop my child from talking.
Truth: Research shows AAC often helps children develop speech because it builds understanding and reduces frustration.
Myth: AAC is only for children who can’t talk at all.
Truth: Many children who speak a little still benefit from AAC to expand vocabulary, reduce pressure, and improve confidence.
Myth: It’s too early to start AAC.
Truth: It’s never too early! Even toddlers can use pictures, signs, or gestures to begin learning communication.
Myth: AAC is only for children who can use a tablet or device.
Truth: AAC includes low-tech tools like picture cards, sign language, and body language -anything that helps a child communicate.
Myth: Only therapists can teach AAC.
Truth: Parents, teachers, and caregivers play a huge role! The more you model and respond, the more your child learns.
AAC & Communication Support
