Augmentative and Alternative Communication Clinic

AAC is a means of communication for individuals who have difficulty using their speech to get their needs met. AAC can help a child:

  • Express their thoughts and feelings
  • Achieve their language milestones
  • Decrease frustration
  • Express their medical needs
  • Increase their opportunities to communicate with family, friends, and others
  • Unlock their communication potential

Types of AAC devices

  • Sign language
  • Picture Exchange
  • Core Boards
  • Switches
  • Speech Generating Devices like iPads, dedicated/ specialized devices, and more.

Features of a robust Augmentative and Alternative Communication system

  • Contains a robust vocabulary to allow an individual to communicate a wide variety of words (nouns, verbs, pronouns, adjectives, and others).
  • Can be used for more than choice making. Individuals should be able to request, reject, comment, exclaim, self- advocate, ask questions, tell jokes, and much more.
  • Has the ability to expand with the learner over time.

Are there any prerequisites to AAC?

No. There are many different AAC options that can help individuals express themselves. Everyone can learn how to communicate when provided with the best support.

Communication opportunities should not be withheld because a child has not reached a specific milestone. ALL children have the right to be heard.

Who may benefit from AAC?

  • Children who have a difficult time expressing themselves.
  • Children who have difficulty imitating sounds or single words.
  • Children who communicate primarily with gestures, crying, and/ or simple sounds.
  • Children who rely on imitating language to communicate with others (children who only use echolalia).

How to find out if an AAC Device will be helpful?

  • Talk to your doctor about the potential benefits of using an AAC device.
  • Obtain a referral for an AAC evaluation.
  • Connect with a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) who has experience using a variety of AAC systems and request an evaluation.

What happens during an AAC evaluation?

  • The evaluator will speak with you about your child’s learning history.
  • They will trial different types of AAC devices with your child.
  • Determine appropriate/potential function source for the AAC system (insurance, Medicaid, school district).
  • Answer any questions you may have.

Who will be on the AAC Evaluation team?

An AAC evaluation will be completed by your child’s team including:

  • Speech Language Pathologist: They will determine the best system for your child.
  • Occupational Therapist (if applicable): They will provide input on your child’s fine motor abilities and regulation as it impacts their use of an AAC system.
  • Physical Therapist (if applicable): They will provide input on your child’s gross motor abilities as it impacts their use of an AAC system.
  • Caregivers: They will provide input regarding their child’s strengths, interests, and home environment.
  • Child: Throughout the evaluation, the team will consider your child’s preference for different types of AAC and do their best to find a system that is the best fit for them.

Referrals/Enrollment

Kindering’s AAC evaluations and follow-up sessions are provided for children between the ages of 3 and 11 years old. If your child is under 3 years old, please reach out to Kindering’s Early Support services or your local Early Supports program for support and resources.

To make a referral for an AAC evaluation, please call (425) 289-7526, email us at kidsclinicreferral@kindering.org, or visit KidsClinic Pediatric Therapy Referral online at kindering.org/referrals.