Understanding AAC: What Is It and Why Might My Child Need It?
As a parent, hearing that your child may need something called AAC can feel confusing and overwhelming. What is it? Is it a device? Will it stop my child from talking? How does it work?
At APA Speech Therapy, we meet many families who ask these exact questions. Our goal is to make things easier to understand. This guide will walk you through what AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) is, why it’s helpful, and how it supports speech and language development.
What Is AAC?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It’s a term used to describe any way of communicating other than talking.
AAC includes tools and strategies that help a person express their thoughts, needs, and ideas. It can be:
Low-tech (like picture cards or sign language)
Mid-tech (like buttons that speak a single word)
High-tech (like apps or devices that “talk” using a screen)
AAC is for people who have trouble using spoken language to communicate clearly or effectively.
Why Might a Child Need AAC?
Children may need AAC if they:
Don’t speak yet or have very few words
Speak but are hard to understand
Have a diagnosis like autism, apraxia, cerebral palsy, or developmental delays
Get frustrated because they can’t express themselves
AAC gives your child a voice—even if they aren’t talking yet.
Does AAC Replace Speaking?
This is a big myth. No—AAC does not stop a child from learning to talk.
Research suggests that using AAC can help children develop their spoken language. It takes the pressure off and provides a means of communication while they continue to develop their speech skills.
Think of it like giving your child a bridge to help them reach their desired destination. Talking is still the goal—but AAC makes the journey smoother.
Examples of AAC Tools
AAC comes in many forms. Some kids use more than one type at the same time. Here are some examples:
1. No-tech or Low-tech AAC
Picture boards with words or images
Sign language
Written notes or pointing
These are simple tools that don’t need batteries or screens. They are great for both home and school use and can be customized to meet your child’s specific needs.
2. Mid-tech AAC
Talking buttons that say a word or phrase
Voice output devices with a few choices
These tools can help send quick, repeated messages, such as “I want” or “Help, please.”
3. High-tech AAC
TouchChat – A popular app that lets children build and speak sentences using pictures or text
Proloquo2Go – An app designed for people who have difficulty speaking, available on iPad and iPhone
LAMP Words for Life – A robust communication app designed for nonverbal children, especially those with autism
Dedicated speech-generating devices from companies like PRC-Saltillo, which make specialized tablets for AAC use
These allow your child to tap words or pictures on a screen, which then speak the message out loud.
What Are the Benefits of AAC?
Using AAC can help your child:
Communicate wants and needs
Ask and answer questions
Make choices
Reduce frustration and meltdowns
Build confidence
Connect with family, teachers, and friends
AAC also supports learning in school and can be used at home, during play, or even during doctor visits.
Will My Child Use AAC Forever?
Not always. Some children use AAC for a short time as their speech develops. Others may use it long-term, depending on their needs.
The critical thing to know is this: AAC grows with your child. The tools and strategies can be adjusted as your child’s language, motor skills, and needs change.
How Do We Get Started with AAC?
At APA Speech Therapy, our team can:
Evaluate your child’s communication needs
Recommend AAC options that fit your child’s strengths and goals
Train you and your child on how to use AAC at home, school, or in therapy
Work closely with your family to build a personalized communication plan
We can also collaborate with your child’s school team or IEP team to support the use of AAC in the classroom.
To learn more about our approach, visit our Services page.
AAC in Schools and at Home
Many children use AAC during speech therapy sessions and then take those tools into the classroom or home environment. We work with both parents and educators to help everyone feel confident using AAC.
At home, we encourage families to:
Use the AAC system during meals, playtime, or routines
Model language by using the device yourself
Be patient and celebrate small wins
Your child’s communication success depends on teamwork—and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
How Much Do AAC Devices Cost—and Who Pays for Them?
We know AAC can sound expensive, and parents often ask:
“How much does this cost?” or “Will insurance or school cover it?”
The good news is—you may not have to pay for it out of pocket.
Here are a few common ways families get AAC devices:
1. Through the School District (IEP)
If your child has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), the school may provide an AAC device as part of special education services.
A school speech therapist can do an evaluation
If AAC is recommended, the district may cover the device and training
This is especially common for kids who are nonverbal or minimally verbal
If your child is in public school and already receives services, talk to the IEP team about an AAC evaluation.
2. Through Health Insurance
Many private insurance plans and Medi-Cal in California will cover speech-generating devices if:
An SLP does a formal AAC evaluation
A doctor writes a prescription or a letter of medical necessity
You go through a vendor that works with your insurance (like PRC-Saltillo)
The process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on your insurance provider.
3. Using Free or Low-Cost Apps First
If you're waiting for a device or just getting started, there are also free or low-cost AAC apps that work on tablets:
Avaz AAC Lite – A great trial version to see how AAC works
These apps don’t replace full devices but are helpful tools for practicing communication at home.
What If I’m Not Sure My Child Needs It?
It’s okay to have questions. Not every child needs AAC, but if your child is struggling to express themselves, it’s worth exploring.
Early support makes a big difference. You can reach out for an AAC consultation even if your child is not currently in speech therapy. The sooner we identify helpful tools, the sooner your child can begin communicating with more ease.
AAC is not a last resort. It’s a helpful, research-backed tool that gives kids a way to express themselves and connect with the world around them. Whether it’s a picture board, an iPad app, or a few signs, AAC meets your child where they are and helps them grow.
If you're ready to learn more or get help finding the right AAC tools, contact APA Speech Therapy today. We’re happy to talk through your concerns and walk with you on this journey.