Whether you’re using a high-tech device, a simple paper-based system, or something in between, proper setup ensures that the AAC tool is effective, easy to use, and tailored to your child’s needs. Here’s a guide to help you get started.
Step 1: Choose the right AAC System
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Explore different forms of AAC: Before setting up, choose which AAC system(s) you are going to introduce. We have a list of the pros and cons for various AAC systems here.
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Consult with a Speech and Language Therapist: Many SLTs specialise in AAC and supporting parents to find the right AAC for their child.
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Consider your child’s preferences: At My Journey we model multiple forms of AAC with our clients to support them to choose a system (or more than one system) that works for them.
Step 2: Customising the AAC System
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Not all forms of AAC will need customising: Some forms of AAC which should be used as part of a robust system do not need customising such as aided language boards for specific toys and activities or an alphabet chart.
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Personalise vocabulary: whether you are making a communication book or editing an app on an electronic device, you want to add relevant vocabulary such as family names, pets, favourite toys, special interests, favourite foods, places and activities.
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Include quick phrases: robust AAC apps usually have this option but if you are making your own boards or communication book be sure to add quick phrases such as ‘I need help’, ‘I can’t find it on my device’, ‘I’m in pain’ etc.
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Don’t delete anything that is already on the AAC: It may be necessary to hide certain categories for example due to your child’s age but never delete vocabulary or replace it as they may need it when they are older or their language develops.
Step 3: Have the AAC System Accessible at all times
- AAC systems should be seen as the child’s voice, therefore they should go wherever your child goes, the only exception for electronic devices are water and messy play.
- Consider accessibility, if your child has physical differences they may need a system such as eye gaze or switches.
- For electronic devices use a robust case (preferably with a strap) and a screen protector
Step 4: Model, Model, Model!
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Use the AAC system yourself: Before your child might start using the AAC system they may need to see others using it, the best way to do this is for you to use your child’s AAC to communicate consistently throughout the day, for example if you are hungry, you can communicate this using AAC and then go and get yourself a snack!
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Model without expectation: do not prompt your child to use their AAC, this can cause prompt dependence or resistance to use a system, model as if you were talking, and do not expect any response.
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Start small: systems can be overwhelming (usually more overwhelming to us adults than children) so if it helps start with a few pages and familiarise yourself with those, use them to communicate throughout the day and once you feel familiar with them move onto another page (just like learning a new language it takes time)
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Allow babbling and stimming: Children may explore their systems and press buttons repeatedly, this is a normal part of learning how to use a system and exploring it, we don’t want to skip this stage or discourage this! (if need be, get yourself some ear plugs that quieten the noise if you find it dysregulating).
Step 5: Integrate AAC into Daily Life
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Be consistent: Use AAC consistently, as above you may need to start a few pages at a time
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Involve others: Your child should have access to their AAC at all times, this means anyone who regularly interacts with your child such as grandparents, teachers and school staff should also be familiar with your child’s AAC system and be able to model language for them.
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Adapt as needed: As your child grows and their interests change, their AAC system will need to as well. This is one of the reasons we love electronic AAC, as it is really quick and easy to customise and edit.
Step 6: When Things Aren’t Working
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AAC learning takes time: just like learning a language learning how to use AAC can take months or even years to develop so don’t worry if your child doesn’t pick this up straight away.
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Technical issues: most robust AAC apps have support staff available every day to help you if you come across any technical issues, most have a chat function on their website.
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Is your child being prompted? Sometimes we find that a child is not using their AAC system if they have been prompted to do so, try not to prompt your child or ask them to ‘use their talker’, accept all forms of communication.
Work with a specialist Speech and Language Therapist: if you need further support with AAC SLTs are skilled and experienced professionals who can help you, contact your local NHS team or find an independent therapist on ASLTIP.
