AAC devices, or Augmentative and Alternative Communication devices, are tools that help individuals with speech and language difficulties effectively communicate. This blog will explore these devices, their work, and why they’re important for kids with learning differences.
Key Takeaways:
- AAC devices help individuals with speech or language challenges communicate.
- Goally’s Talker is a simple-to-use Speech Generating Device (SGD) tailored for kids.
- SGDs can be invaluable for neurodivergent children and kids with special needs.
AAC devices help individuals with limited or no verbal communication express themselves using technology, symbols, or pictures. But what exactly are AAC devices, and how can they improve a child’s communication ability? These devices range from simple picture cards to sophisticated apps and tablets. The suitable device can offer your child a voice, helping them feel understood and connected.
Table of Contents
What Are AAC Devices?
AAC devices are used by individuals who struggle with speech or language due to conditions like autism, cerebral palsy, or Down syndrome. These tools allow them to communicate in ways they otherwise wouldn’t be able to. AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. This refers to any method of communication other than verbal speech.
AAC can take many forms, from no-tech solutions like picture boards to high-tech tools like speech-generating devices (SGDs). Kids who may not speak effectively can use AAC devices to form sentences, ask questions, and express their feelings, allowing them to communicate and connect with others.
Why Are AAC Devices Important for Neurodivergent Kids?
AAC devices allow neurodivergent kids, like those with autism, to express their thoughts. For kids with thinking and learning differences, communication can often be a frustrating experience. Devices like these remove that barrier. Instead of getting frustrated, your child can press a button or point to a symbol to communicate their message.
These tools help kids become more independent. Whether ordering food at a restaurant or asking for help with homework, AAC devices give them the tools to interact meaningfully with the world. Research shows that early introduction of AAC can significantly improve long-term communication outcomes in neurodivergent kids. Learn more about what are speech generating devices and find out if your child needs one.
How AAC Devices Improve Communication and Learning
AAC devices not only help kids communicate, but they also support learning. When kids can express their thoughts and feelings, they are more likely to participate in class, ask questions, and interact with their peers. Studies show that kids using AAC devices progress faster in speech and language development.
This means that AAC devices can provide peace of mind for parents. Knowing that your child can communicate with you or their teachers removes one of the major hurdles in education. AAC devices also help promote social skills as kids learn to engage more fully in conversations and group activities.
Read More: How to Communicate with a Nonverbal Autistic Child
Types of AAC
There are two primary types of AAC:
- Unaided AAC: Unaided AAC doesn’t require any external tools. This can include Gesture, Sign language (like American Sign Language – ASL) and Facial expressions
- Aided AAC: Aided AAC involves using tools and devices, such as Picture boards and communication books, Speech-generating devices (SGDs), AAC apps on tablets and smartphones
Who Can Benefit from AAC Devices?
AAC devices can help anyone who has difficulty communicating through speech. This can include kids with:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- Cerebral palsy
- Down syndrome
- Speech delays
- Apraxia of speech
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Benefits of AAC Devices
AAC devices provide a wealth of benefits for kids with communication challenges. Here are a few of the most important advantages:
- Increased communication and independence: AAC allows kids to express their needs, wants, and feelings, reducing frustration and increasing their sense of control.
- Improved social interaction: When kids communicate more effectively, they can build stronger relationships with family, friends, and peers.
- Enhanced learning and development: AAC devices can help kids participate in learning activities and develop cognitive skills.
- Boosted self-esteem and confidence: The ability to communicate successfully can profoundly impact a child’s self-image.
Choosing the Right AAC Device for Your Child
Selecting the right AAC device can feel overwhelming with many available options. The best way to choose is by considering your child’s specific needs. A simple, picture-based device may be best for younger kids or those with more severe communication challenges. A speech-generating device like Goally’s Talker may be ideal for older kids or those with advanced cognitive abilities. What is the best tablet for an autistic child?
It’s also good to consult your child’s speech therapist or another communication specialist. They can help guide you through the selection process, ensuring your chosen device fits your child’s communication style best. Let’s break down some popular options to get you started:
1. Goally’s AAC
If you’re looking for an AAC device that has the easiest setup and can get kids communicating the fastest, Goally’s AAC tablet uses language learning strategies that are proven to help children develop language and independence skills. One of the greatest benefits is that it’s completely customizable down to the audio cues. Using visual modeling and a simple user interface, Word Lab is a great option for learning at home and on the go. What Makes Goally’s Talker Unique?
Goally’s Talker is one of the best examples of a high-tech AAC device. It’s designed for kids with learning differences and is incredibly easy to use. All your child has to do is tap on an image or a word, and the device speaks for them. This empowers neurodivergent kids by giving them a voice in any environment.
Another benefit of Goally’s Talker is its integration with other systems. It comes preloaded with several vocabulary sets and can be customized for your child’s communication needs. Plus, its portability means it can go wherever your child does, whether at home, school, or out and about.
2. Lightwriter SL50
The Lightwriter is one of the best text-to-speech aids on the market at the moment, with intuitive and customizable features. It has adjustable keyboard sensitivity, word prediction, and dual screens with forward-facing speakers that allow others to read what someone’s written and hear it clearly through the device. It works via Bluetooth to send text messages and make calls, which makes it a great device for more than just face-to-face interactions.
3. LoganTech ProxTalker
For those who would prefer not to type or are unable to type, the ProxTalker is a great option. It uses symbols and picture tags embedded with radio frequency identification chips to read the words on the card aloud. It also has a built-in microphone and a minimum of 6 months of battery life provided by four Duracell C batteries.
Read More: What Are the Types of AAC?
4. GoTalk 20+
GoTalk is one of the simplest AAC devices available and can store up to 100 pre-recorded messages. There are also core buttons for common words or phrases. However, this runs on two AA batteries, so the battery life won’t be as long as others.
5. MegaBee Assisted Communication and Writing Tablet
This communication tablet operates as an eye-pointing communication tool rather than having buttons. It has dual screens that fit up to 20 characters so the message is visible to users as it’s typed. It also has Bluetooth connectivity so it can operate on a larger display.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an AAC Device
Selecting a suitable AAC device is a very personalized journey. Work closely with your child’s SLP to consider these essential factors:
- Your child’s age and developmental level: Match the device’s complexity to where your child is.
- Your child’s communication needs: Does your child need to express basic wants or engage in complex conversations?
- Your child’s physical abilities: Can your child use fine motor skills to point or access a touchscreen?
- Portability and ease of use: How important is it that the device is easily transported?
- Cost and funding options: AAC devices can vary in price, so explore insurance coverage and other financial assistance resources.
How To Introduce AAC Devices to Your Child
It can be tricky to introduce an AAC device, especially if your child has never used one before. Start slow and make the experience fun. Show them how the device works by modeling it in everyday conversations. For example, use the AAC device at dinner time to ask questions like “What do you want to eat?” This gives them a clear demonstration of how they can use the device all by themselves.
Additionally, consistency is key. The more your child sees the AAC device in action, the more likely they will use it. In my experience, integrating the device into daily routines can turn it into a fun tool rather than a frustrating task.
Read more: How Do I Teach My Child to Use an AAC Talker?
A Success Story
Here’s a quick anecdote to illustrate the power of AAC: When I worked with a little boy named Alex, who had severe autism, he was very frustrated because he couldn’t communicate his needs. He’d often throw tantrums and sometimes act out aggressively. After introducing a simple picture exchange system (PECS), the SLP and I saw a dramatic change in Alex. He now had a way to ask for a snack, request a break, or let us know he needed to go to the bathroom. His outbursts decreased, and a sense of calm washed over him.
Finding the Right Fit
Choosing the best AAC device for your child is a team effort. Here’s how to set your child up for success:
- Consult with an SLP: A speech-language pathologist can assess your child’s communication needs and recommend appropriate AAC devices and strategies.
- Try different options: Let your child explore and experiment with various devices in therapy, at school, and at home.
- Provide ongoing support and training: You, your child’s teachers, and therapists will all need to be comfortable using the device to effectively support your child’s communication.
Goally | Apps that Teach Kids AAC & Core Words
Is your child facing challenges in expressing themselves or communicating effectively? Goally has one of the best language language learning apps for kids to support their journey in building essential communication skills!
The Word Lab and AAC Talker apps provide a simple, engaging platform for your child to learn core words and become a functional communicator right from the start. Customize the experience with a voice that suits them, and watch as their confidence grows in expressing their thoughts and needs!
To summarize, AAC devices can be life-changing tools for neurodivergent kids and their families. Whether using a low-tech picture board or a high-tech speech-generating device like Goally’s Talker, these tools allow kids to communicate with the world around them. Finding the right device for your child may take trial and error, but the results are worth it. AAC devices give your child a voice and give your family a chance to connect and communicate in ways you never thought possible.
Helpful Resources
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
- Autism Society
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
FAQ’s About AAC Devices
What is AAC? AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It includes any tools or strategies that help people who struggle with spoken language express themselves. Who can benefit from AAC devices? AAC devices can help children and adults with a wide range of conditions, including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, speech delays, and traumatic brain injuries. What are the different types of AAC devices? AAC devices range from simple picture boards and communication books to high-tech speech-generating devices and AAC apps on tablets and smartphones. How do I choose an AAC device for my child? The best way to choose an AAC device is to consult with a speech-language pathologist (SLP) who can assess your child's needs and recommend appropriate options. How can AAC devices improve my child's life? AAC devices can empower children with communication challenges to express themselves, build relationships, participate in learning, and boost their overall self-confidence.
This post was originally published on 06/13/2022. It was updated on 09/25/2024.
Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.
