AAC: More Than Just the Name of This Blog
4 Minute Read
It may come as a surprise, but AAC is not just the name of this blog.
AAC in the communication world stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. So what does that mean?
According to ASHA (the American Speech-Langauge-Hearing Association), augmentative means to add to someone’s speech, and alternative means to be used instead of speech. Simply put, AAC includes any form of communication that isn't spoken words—and it’s an essential tool for many individuals who are non-speaking or have limited verbal language.
A large part of my job as a speech pathologist is to help non-speaking individuals find what form of AAC works the best for them.
So let’s break down the types of AAC.
The terms no-tech or low-tech AAC refer to things like:
gestures
writing
drawing
spelling words by pointing to letters
pointing to pictures, photographs, or written words
The term “high-tech” refers to:
using an app on an iPad or tablet to communicate
using a computer with a voice output (speech generating device)
Just like all communication, these tools can be mixed and matched. AAC systems are highly individualized, and what works for one person may look entirely different for another.
So why does AAC matter? And why is it so prevalent in the autistic community?
The autistic brain often has more synaptic connections than a neurotypical brain, which can make it more responsive to visual input. That’s why pairing pictures with spoken words can be especially powerful for autistic individuals.
We call this multi-modal communication, or total communication - using more than one method (like pictures, speech, and gestures) to support understanding and expression.
A total communication approach not only helps teach new vocabulary and language skills, but it also affirms and validates any way that one tries to communicate and connect.
At its heart, AAC is about access, autonomy, and connection. It's a tool—not just for communication, but for building relationships, expressing identity, and honoring every individual’s unique voice.
Whether spoken, typed, drawn, or signed, communication is a human right. And AAC helps ensure that right is accessible to all.
~Chloe