Aided Language Boards (ALBs) are a paper-based form of Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC). Aided Language Boards are visual communication tools that use symbols, pictures, and written text to help children express themselves. These boards are designed to provide an accessible and supportive way for children to communicate their thoughts, feelings and ideas.
Children develop language in different ways, therefore we use different aided language boards for analytic and gestalt language processors.
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ALBs for Analytic Language Processors (ALPs): These boards focus on individual words, helping children who develop language by starting with single words and building phrases.
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ALBs for Gestalt Language Processors (GLPs): These boards are designed with larger chunks or phrases of language, supporting children who learn language in this way. We find these particularly helpful for adults to model chunks of language for GLPs in stages 1 and 2 of gestalt language development.
How Can Aided Language Boards Help?
Aided Language Boards can significantly benefit children with speech, language, and communication support needs. Here’s how:
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Enhancing Communication: ALBs provide a visual and tangible way for children to express themselves, reducing frustration and increasing their ability to communicate effectively with others.
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Supporting Language Development: For both ALPs and GLPs, ALBs offer a structured way to develop and expand their language skills. They help children practice and use language in a way that aligns with their unique processing style.
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Promoting Independence: By giving children a reliable tool to express themselves, ALBs foster greater independence and confidence in their communication abilities.
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Facilitating Interaction: ALBs encourage social interaction by providing a shared visual reference for both the child and communication partners. This can be particularly helpful in educational settings or during playtime with peers.
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Supporting Parents: ALBs provide parents with a consistent language model to use each time they are interacting with their child; repetition supports language development.
How Do I Use an Aided Language Board?
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Introduce the board: Start by familiarising your child with the board. Have the board out and available at all times.
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Modelling communication: Demonstrate how to use the board by pointing to symbols as you speak. This helps your child understand the relationship between symbols and speech.
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Use a total communication approach: Use the board alongside spoken language and other visual supports such as pictures, drawings, gestures, body language and facial expression, to enhance understanding and communication. All forms of communication are valid.
Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be flexible and open to adapting your approach based on your child's preferences and communication style. With patience, consistency, and support, you can help your child develop effective communication skills.
Free Aided Language Boards
We believe that every child should have access to the tools they need to communicate effectively. That’s why we offer a selection of free Aided Language Boards on our website. These boards are available for download and can be printed at home or school.
Our free ALBs are available in ALP or GLP types, ensuring that you can find the right tool for your child’s communication style. These resources are a great way to get started with Aided Language Boards and see the benefits they can bring.
