How to Help Your Child Reach Communication Goals Faster with AAC

Understanding AAC: The Basics and Its Powerful Impact

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It refers to a wide range of tools, systems, and strategies designed to help individuals communicate when speaking is difficult or not possible. These can include picture boards, communication books, apps for tablets, and high-tech speech-generating devices.

For children with autism, apraxia, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, or other speech challenges, AAC bridges the gap between what they know and what they can communicate. When introduced early and used consistently, AAC is more than just a backup—it’s a path toward genuine connection, independence, and academic success.

• Low-Tech AAC: Picture cards, communication books, symbol boards
• High-Tech AAC: Speech-generating devices, dynamic apps, eye-gaze systems

Key takeaway: AAC is not a last resort. It’s a life-changing tool that gives every child the right to be heard in their unique way.

How to Set Communication Goals That Work in AAC

Effective AAC goals are functional, meaningful, and tailored to your child’s world. They should focus on participation in daily life: telling what they want for breakfast, greeting peers, sharing feelings, or commenting on activities. Work with your SLP to choose individualized targets that match your child’s age, interests, and developmental level.

SMART AAC Goal Checklist

• Specific: What exact message or skill will your child learn?
• Measurable: How will you track progress?
• Achievable: Is the goal realistic and motivating?
• Relevant: Will this improve real-life communication?
• Time-bound: When will you check for progress?

Sample AAC Goals:

• Request 3 favorite snacks using a communication app during snack time.
• Greet classmates with symbols or device on arrival at school.
• Use “no” or “stop” when refusing a choice at home and in therapy.
• Comment (“That’s funny!” “I like that!”) while reading with a sibling.

7 Proven Ways to Accelerate Communication Growth with AAC

1. Model Communication All Day, Everywhere
   Children learn by watching and participating. Use your child’s AAC system to talk throughout your day, meals, play, errands, car rides. Your child does not have to “perform” on command; simply seeing meaningful AAC use by adults and siblings teaches real-life language.
   • Say and point: “Time to eat!” while tapping icons.
   • Use core words: “Go,” “want,” “help,” “like,” in varied settings.
   • Pro tip: Enlist everyone, teachers, friends, grandparents, to model AAC. The more, the better!
2. Personalize Vocabulary for Maximum Motivation
   Include interests, favorite foods, pets, jokes, and routines in the device. Customize vocabulary for school, home, and the community. Update it regularly so it stays fresh and compelling. If the system features something “too young” or “boring,” engagement drops fast.
   • Ask your child about shows, toys, and topics to add.
   • Support new hobbies or classroom topics by pre-loading relevant words.
   • Reflect family culture, names, and routines for a sense of ownership.
3. Embed AAC in Routines and Real Life
   Speed comes from repeated, short practice during routines, not just isolated therapy sessions. Use AAC while picking clothes, cooking, reading together, or playing games. These everyday activities make communication meaningful, consistent, and “normal.”
   • Morning: Choose music or breakfast using AAC
   • Shopping: Ask for items or respond to questions
   • Play: Comment, request a turn, make silly jokes
4. Celebrate Every Attempt, Not Just “Perfect” Use
   Every try matters. A child pressing a “wrong” button or mixing gestures with AAC? Celebrate that risk-taking. Every step toward independence asking for help, refusing, initiating a joke is a win.
   • Immediate, enthusiastic praise (little “wins” build big confidence)
   • Share successes with others to build a support network
   • Use a sticker chart, “Win Wall,” or digital tracker for visibility
5. Expand Beyond Requests: Real Conversations and Expression
   AAC is more than asking for needs. Teach and model comments, questions, feelings, jokes, and stories. Broaden interaction so your child can share about their day, give an opinion, or join group conversations.
   • “That’s silly!” “I love that!” “Did you see?”
   • Peer-to-peer greetings, commenting on play or lessons
   • Voting or making choices in family or school activities
6. Involve All Communication Partners (Family, School, Community)
   The fastest progress happens when everyone “buys in.” Teachers, bus drivers, siblings, and afterschool staff should all know the basics of the AAC system and be encouraged to use it. Provide simple guides or scripts for new partners so they feel comfortable responding and initiating.
   • Hold brief training or info sessions
   • Send home “cheat sheets” or videos as reminders
   • Set up communication opportunities in varied environments
7. Make It Fun and Motivating Every Day
   Tap into your child’s sense of play and humor. Use built-in games, silly sounds, favorite characters, or custom “jokes” within the device. Play-based practice beats drills for keeping kids engaged and coming back for more.
   • Scavenger hunts, “Simon Says,” or storytelling with AAC
   • Let the child choose device voices, themes, or favorite jokes
   • Plan collaborative writing, drawing, or music activities using AAC

Creative AAC Strategies for Home and School

• Writing with AAC:
  • Shared storytelling, journals, emails, poetry, and “real-world” lists all boost literacy and confidence.
  • Model writing on the device (so your child sees and hears the whole process).
  • Let your child guide the content and format, celebrate every story, label, or list they create, no matter how simple.
  • Mix high- and low-tech supports as needed (typed, symbols, drawn input).
• Reading with AAC:
  • Program new vocabulary from current stories into the device before reading.
  • Pause during shared reading to model how to comment, predict, or answer questions with the AAC.
  • Engage in interactive reading: encourage children to use their device to tell parts of the story, vote on plot twists, or share their opinions.

How to Troubleshoot and Avoid Common AAC Pitfalls

• Lack of Motivation:
  • Refresh vocabulary and content frequently. Add favorite games, shows, or silly jokes.
  • Involve peers, siblings, and group activities to boost engagement.
• Inconsistent Use:
  • Script daily “check-in” times and routines, like mealtime or reading, so AAC is always present.
  • Build caregiver and teacher knowledge with simple visual reminders and ongoing, open communication.
• Tech Challenges:
  • Always have a backup (low-tech board, laminated words) ready for “off” moments.
  • Check for device updates and repairs regularly; make it part of your weekly routine.
• Physical Access Issues:
  • Work with your SLP and OT to ensure device positioning, touch sensitivity, and mounting match the child’s needs.

Privacy, Inclusion, and Advocacy: Essential Considerations

Respecting children’s personal information is a top requirement when using AAC in schools and clinics. Devices and apps often collect and store data. Always work with your SLP and school team to follow all privacy and consent protocols.

• Comply with federal laws like COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act), IDEA, and FERPA.
• Ensure caregivers are informed of which AAC tools are used, what data is collected, and who has access.
• Never share photos, videos, or data from AAC use online without explicit, written guardian consent.
• Advocate for your child’s right to access AAC in all educational settings, IEPs, 504 plans, and school teams should include AAC supports as needed.

For more details, ask your school’s privacy officer or technology lead for guidance on AAC data and device privacy.

Tips for SLPs and Parents: Building AAC Success Together

• Celebrate progress, not perfection. Small wins matter most.
• Anchor AAC routines to daily family activities for maximum carryover.
• Encourage and thank all team members who model and support AAC use.
• Keep learning, attend AAC workshops, webinars, and connect with other families and professionals for fresh ideas and support.
• Be flexible. Update your approach, vocabulary, and routines as your child grows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts: Every Voice Is Worth Hearing

Your child’s AAC journey is uniquely theirs, and every step forward, no matter how small, is cause for celebration. By prioritizing daily use, personalization, joy, and a team approach, you can help your child reach communication goals faster and with more confidence. Trust the process, honor your child’s voice, and embrace the laughter, learning, and progress that AAC brings to your family and community.