AAC

What is AAC?

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) encompassesall means of communication other than verbal language.

People can experience difficulty expressing themselves efficiently through speech for many reasons. Their inability to communicate can be a great cause of frustration and limit their independence in the everyday. It is vital to provide other suitable and effective methods of communication.

AAC encompasses these various means, which fall into two main categories:

1. Technical assistance in AAC

• Non-electronic systems: e.g. charts, communication books, alphabet boards
• Electronic systems: tablet devices, voice synthesis, digital tablets

AAC gives a person the opportunity to communicate and express their thoughts in any situation and with any communication partner. AAC helps to reduce frustration and to enhance social interaction, inclusion and independence.

2. No-tech AAC

• Facial expressions
• Body language
• Gestures
• Sign language