AAC and support for non-speaking children
Every child has the right to communicate. For children who do not yet speak, or who speak very little, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) provides a reliable way to be heard.
What it is
AAC is any method of communicating beyond speech. It ranges from gestures and picture cards to apps and speech-generating devices. AAC supports communication and, research shows, does not stop speech from developing.
How speech pathology helps
A speech pathologist assesses what suits your child, helps choose and set up a system, and coaches the family and educators to use it day to day. They can also support funding applications for higher-cost devices and review the system as your child grows.
Signs families notice
AAC may help if your child:
- Does not yet use speech, or uses very little
- Is hard to understand and becomes frustrated
- Has a lot to say but limited ways to say it
- Would benefit from a consistent way to communicate across home and school
- Is working towards both AAC and spoken language
NDIS and funding
AAC assessment, setup, and training are commonly supported through NDIS therapy funding, and devices may be funded as assistive technology with a speech pathologist's recommendation. Your plan manager or support coordinator can help with the process.
Common questions
Will using AAC stop my child from learning to talk?
Research indicates AAC does not hold back speech and can support it. AAC gives a child a reliable way to communicate now, while speech continues to be encouraged.
How do we fund a communication device?
Devices can often be funded under the NDIS as assistive technology, usually with an assessment and recommendation from a speech pathologist. The process depends on the cost level of the device.
If your child needs a reliable way to communicate, a speech pathologist can guide you. Search your suburb on Waitless to find local clinics and enquire for free.
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This page is general information, not clinical advice, and every child is different. For advice about your child, speak with a GP or a speech pathologist.