Low Tech AAC Strategies

Simple Ways to Help Your Child Communicate

Communication is more than spoken words. Some children need extra support to express their wants, needs, thoughts, and feelings. Low-tech AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) includes simple communication tools that do not require batteries or technology. These supports help children communicate more successfully throughout the day.

The best part? Many low-tech AAC strategies are easy to start using at home.

What Is Low-Tech AAC?

Low-tech AAC includes simple communication supports such as:

• Picture symbols

• Choice boards

• Communication books

• First/then boards

• Visual schedules

• Printed words or photos

• Simple signs and gestures

These tools help children communicate even when spoken language is difficult.

Why Use Low-Tech AAC?

Low-tech AAC can help children:

• Reduce frustration

• Express wants and needs

• Understand routines

• Participate in family activities

• Build language skills

• Increase independence

• Improve behavior by giving a way to communicate

AAC does not stop speech development. Research shows AAC often supports and encourages communication growth.

Easy Low-Tech AAC Ideas for Home

1. Offer Choices

Instead of asking open-ended questions, offer two visual choices.

Example

Show pictures or actual items:

• Apple or crackers?

• Swing or bubbles?

• Blue shirt or red shirt?

Tip: Hold the choices up and pause to give your child time to respond.

2. Use a Visual Schedule

Visual schedules help children understand what is happening during the day.

Example

• Wake up

• Eat breakfast

• Get dressed

• School

• Playtime

• Bath

• Bedtime

Tip: Use pictures, drawings, or printed photos. Remove or check off activities as they are completed.

3. Create a Simple Communication Board

A communication board includes pictures of favorite items, people, foods, or activities.

Example Categories

• Snacks

• Toys

• Feelings

• Bathroom

• Help

• More

• All done

Tip: Keep the board nearby during meals, playtime, and routines.

4. Use First/Then Boards

First/then boards help children understand expectations.

Example

• FIRST clean up - THEN iPad

• FIRST bathroom - THEN playground

  
  

Tip: Pair the board with simple language and point to the pictures as you talk.

(Find this First Then board available for download on the "freebies" page with instructions on how to use)

5. Model Communication

Children learn AAC best when adults use it too.

Example

If using a picture board, point to “eat” while saying:“Time to eat!”

Tip: Do not pressure your child to copy right away. Repeated modeling helps learning happen naturally.

Everyday Routines Are the Best Practice

You do not need long therapy sessions at home. Some of the best communication opportunities happen during:

• Meals

• Bath time

• Getting dressed

• Grocery shopping

• Reading books

• Playing outside

• Snack time

• Car rides

Simple moments create powerful learning opportunities.

Every child deserves a way to communicate. Low-tech AAC tools give children opportunities to connect, participate, and share their voice throughout the day. Small, consistent supports at home can make a big difference over time.

Karen Taylor, M.S., CCC-SLP, CAS

Speech-Language Pathologist

Founder, Universal Speech Strategies

"Helping parents and professionals build communication through practical, evidence-based strategies."