At Little Talks Speech Therapy, we believe that every child has a voice that deserves to be heard. In some cases, this may include a personalized Augmentative and Alternative Communication AAC device that helps children communicate effectively. Our goal is to empower children and their families by giving them the tools they need to express their needs, wants, and ideas with confidence and clarity. Contact us to learn if this may be an appropriate solution for your child.
What is AAC?
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a term used to describe a wide range of tools and techniques that help individuals communicate. An AAC device may refer to a speech-generating device (SGD) or other kind of assistive communication device.
Examples of an AAC device are tablets, laptops, communication boards, picture books, and more. We help provide AAC devices and train your child how to use these tools effectively to communicate with others.
Why is AAC important?
For many children, communication comes naturally, but for others, it can be a significant challenge. Children who have difficulty with speech or language may feel frustrated, isolated, or misunderstood. An AAC device can help children overcome these barriers by providing them with a tool they need to communicate more effectively.
At Little Talks Speech Therapy, we understand that every child is unique, and their communication needs will vary. That’s why we provide recommendations, device trials, comprehensive evaluations, programming, training, and parent education, ensuring your child receives an AAC system customized to their specific needs. Our experienced therapists work closely with children and their families to develop AAC systems that are effective, intuitive, and empowering.
Is an AAC Device Necessary for Your Child?
A child may need an AAC device when they have difficulty expressing themselves effectively through spoken language alone. Here are some situations in which a device might be beneficial:
- Limited Verbal Speech: If a child struggles to speak or cannot communicate effectively using spoken language, despite interventions and therapies, an AAC device can provide an alternative means of communication.
- Unintelligible Speech: If a child’s speech is difficult for others to understand or if they have significant articulation difficulties, an AAC device can help them communicate more clearly.
- Communication Frustration: When a child becomes frustrated or exhibits behavioral challenges due to difficulty communicating wants, needs, or thoughts verbally, an AAC device can reduce frustration and improve their ability to express themselves.
- Complex Communication Needs: Some children have complex communication needs due to conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, or developmental delays. AAC devices can provide them with the tools they need to communicate effectively and interact with others.
- Supporting Language Development: AAC devices can support language development by providing visual support and reinforcement for spoken language, helping children learn new words, concepts, and sentence structures.
- Enhancing Social Interaction: AAC devices can facilitate social interaction by enabling children to engage in conversations, participate in activities, and interact with peers and caregivers more effectively.
- Improving Independence: AAC devices can promote independence by enabling children to make choices, express preferences, and advocate for their needs in various environments and situations.
AAC Device Funding
Let us help you with the funding process to get your child the AAC device they may need. Initially, you’ll need a recommendation from a speech therapist like ourselves, outlining your child’s unique communication needs. From there, we’ll guide you through the funding application process, which may entail providing detailed information about your child’s condition, financial situation, and the specific device requested.
Depending on the funding source, additional steps such as appeals or negotiations might be necessary. Once funding is secured, the AAC device can be acquired through the designated provider. We’ll then provide training and support services to ensure your child’s effective use of the device. Additionally, we offer AAC device trials, comprehensive evaluations, and personalized treatment plans.
Evaluate Your Child’s Needs Today
If you’d like to discover if an AAC device would be beneficial for your child, we invite you to please contact us. Our compassionate and experienced therapists are here to help your child find their voice and communicate with confidence and clarity.