AAC (Augmentative & Alternative Communication)

What is AAC?

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. AAC helps people communicate when talking is difficult or not yet possible.

AAC does not replace speech. Research consistently shows that AAC supports language development and often helps verbal communication grow alongside it.

Types of AAC

AAC systems range from simple to complex. The right choice depends on the individual’s communication needs, motor abilities, and daily routines.

Low-tech AAC

Low-tech options require no batteries or devices:

• picture boards and communication books
• visual schedules
• choice boards
• sign language or key word signs

Low-tech AAC is portable, affordable, and easy to use across settings. It is often a good starting point, especially for young children.

High-tech AAC

High-tech options use electronic devices or apps to generate speech:

• dedicated speech-generating devices
• tablet-based apps such as TouchChat, Proloquo2Go, LAMP Words for Life, and TD Snap
• eye-gaze technology for individuals with limited motor control

High-tech AAC allows access to a wide vocabulary and can grow with the individual over time.

Many people use a combination of both low-tech and high-tech systems, depending on the situation.

Who uses AAC?

AAC can help children and adults who:

• are minimally verbal or nonverbal
• have autism
• have childhood apraxia of speech
• have motor speech difficulties
• have developmental delays
• have acquired communication difficulties

For example, a child may press a button on a device to say “I want snack,” “more bubbles,” or “go outside.” An adult may use a communication app to participate in conversations at work or in the community.

How speech-language therapy helps

At West End Speech, our speech-language pathologists help by:

• assessing communication needs and recommending the right AAC system
• teaching the individual how to use their AAC system effectively
• teaching parents, caregivers, and educators how to support AAC use
• helping use AAC during real-life situations: requesting, commenting, asking questions, and connecting with others

AAC therapy also supports language development more broadly. As individuals learn to communicate through AAC, they often build vocabulary, sentence structure, and conversational skills.

Our approach

We approach AAC one person at a time, guided by current research:

• Modelling: We teach communication partners to model AAC use during everyday activities, so the individual sees AAC being used naturally before they are expected to use it independently.
• Core vocabulary focus: We prioritize high-frequency words (like “want,” “go,” “more,” “help”) that can be used across many situations.
• Aided language input: We pair spoken language with AAC to support comprehension and expression.
• Real-life practice: Therapy targets communication in contexts that matter: mealtimes, play, school, outings, and social interactions.

What to expect

Assessment

We start by getting a clear picture of the individual’s communication, motor skills, and daily routines. We may try out different AAC systems during the assessment to see what works best.

Therapy sessions

Sessions focus on building functional communication skills using the chosen AAC system. We work closely with families to ensure AAC is used consistently across home, school, and community settings.

Training for communication partners

A key part of AAC therapy is supporting the people around the AAC user. We provide coaching and training for parents, caregivers, siblings, educators, and others who communicate with the individual daily.

How to get started

If you think AAC might help your child or someone in your family, contact us to book an assessment. We offer AAC therapy online across BC and in-home around Vancouver, in English and French.