As a BCBA, I teach people how to use Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC) devices. AAC devices help people communicate who have trouble asking for things they want.
The good results:
An AAC device enables people to do more in their home and community. When an AAC device is successful:
- The whole team works together.
- The team uses the AAC device to communicate.
- The AAC device is setup for the person.
- The AAC device enables the person to get their favorite things.
When everyone works together, an AAC device can enable people to get their favorite things.
The Bad results:
When the wrong program used, or the AAC Device is setup wrong. It often ends up going unused. This happens because:
- The AAC is too complicated.
- People don’t use the AAC device.
- The person’s favorite things are not added to the AAC device.
AAC Devices can help people. Work with an expert when you start working with an AAC device.
Some online resources for selecting AAC programs:
Jane Farrell AAC App List – a list of AAC Apps.
PrAACtical AAC Blog – more AAC resources.