Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC)
Some children benefit from the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) while they continue to develop their verbal communication skills. AAC provides additional ways for children to express their thoughts, wants, needs, and ideas, reducing frustration and allowing them to participate more fully at home, in school, and in their communities.
At Ponte Vedra Speech, Language, and Learning, we believe that every child deserves a voice. We provide comprehensive AAC evaluations, trial a variety of communication systems, and help families select the option that best meets their child’s individual needs. We also assist with the funding, ordering, and implementation of speech-generating devices when appropriate, while providing ongoing training for families and caregivers.
What is a Speech-Generating Device (SGD)?
A Speech-Generating Device (SGD) is an electronic communication system that allows a child to communicate by selecting words, pictures, or symbols that produce spoken language. Many SGDs are dedicated iPads equipped with specialized communication software, while others are purpose-built communication devices.
Speech-generating devices can be life-changing for children with limited expressive language or those whose speech is difficult to understand because of conditions such as Childhood Apraxia of Speech, cerebral palsy, autism, or other developmental or neurological disorders. By giving children a reliable way to communicate, SGDs help them express their thoughts, participate in conversations, build relationships, and experience the power of successful communication.
Will AAC Prevent My Child from Learning to Talk?
This is one of the most common questions families ask, and the answer is no.
Research consistently shows that using AAC does not discourage or replace spoken language. In fact, providing children with an effective way to communicate often reduces frustration, increases opportunities for interaction, and encourages further language development. Many minimally verbal children begin communicating more frequently—and some develop increased verbal speech—after being introduced to an AAC system.
At Ponte Vedra Speech, Language, and Learning, AAC is viewed as a bridge to communication, not a replacement for speech. We continue to support and encourage verbal language development whenever possible while ensuring that every child has a dependable way to communicate effectively.
Our goal is simple: to give every child a voice and the confidence to use it.