I am super excited to start AAC as a communication tool with Leah. Although this journey is a marathon and we have only " signed up for the race " I am hopeful that this tool will help my little girl and unlock her potential.
What is AAC?
It stands for Augmentative and alternative communication. It is a set of tools and strategies that an individual uses to solve everyday communicative challenges.
AAC covers a huge range of techniques which support, or replace, spoken communication.
What does AAC look like?
AAC is commonly categorised in the following ways:
Non-aided AAC. It includes communicative methods such as facial expression, body language, gesture and pointing. No additional tools or equipment are used beyond the human body.
Aided AAC. This is generally organised into two further subcategories:
Electronic AAC. This involves the use of electronic Assistive Technology equipment involving dedicated hardware and software options.
Paper-based AAC. This involves the use of paper-based communication tools such as PODD
Where I first seen AAC in use?
There is a wonderful series called special school. This is whete AAC is used by different uses with different complex needs
More on special school can be found here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000mpv2