What is AAC and Why is it Important to the Nonspeaking Child.

We all want our children to be able to talk and tell us what they want, how they feel and be able to have a conversation with us and their brothers and sisters. This is a normal wish all parents have for their children.

When an SLP, however, offers the family of a nonspeaking child the use of an AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication device) such as an iPad with a special picture-based communication software, parents are often reluctant to have their children use these devices, believing that if they give their child an AAC device, their child will never develop Speech.

Research shows this is not correct. In fact, research shows that an AAC can actually help a child develop Speech, when they also receive Speech Therapy.

How does this happen? How can an AAC device help a nonspeaking child develop speech?

Speech is in part, the product of the functioning of the brain. When the brain is not used to communicate, the areas of the brain that normally produce speech, become smaller and smaller as time goes by. Giving a nonspeaking child an AAC device so they can learn new words, learn how to string those words into sentences, learn the steps to gain a person’s attention to communicate their needs, wants, their comments and thoughts – all this, develops their brain in ways that protect the language and communication parts of the brain from getting smaller and weaker.

When a child has the ability to communicate, either through an AAC device, Sign Language, or verbally, they are protecting and developing the Language and Communication parts of the brain. For many children having these brain areas in good health, helps them develop vocal speech. Without these tools that give nonspeaking children a voice to express themselves to the world, we would not be able to give these kids a fighting chance to developing vocal speech.

So, the next time you think about AAC, remember: Augmentative and Alternative Communication is a good thing.