What is AAC?

AAC is a method or tool for people to communicate in ways other than speaking. This could be using:

  • Key Word Sign

  • Symbols

  • Text

  • Communication devices

  • Communication books

AAC stands for augmentative and alternative communication

What does AAC look like?

communication book with high contrast symbols
photo of stacey standing next to a child in a stroller playing a game on an eyegaze device
eye gaze device that has a picture of a lightning bolt and daniel tiger
image of Stacey using the "thank you" sign
image of nail polish with a speech bubble saying "lets do your nails"
big red button that speaks when you press on it
image of a communication app on an ipad
image of a PODD communication app
image of a hand pointing to a screen with symbols.
communication book with a high contrast symbol that says "chat words"

All people need a way to communicate, this is a human right.

For people with little to no speech, AAC can provide a way to access to communication.

There is no prerequisite for AAC. This means that all people living with a communication disability deserve a right to communicate in their own way.

Examples of people who may benefit from AAC include people living with:

  • Cerebral Palsy

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder

  • Down Syndrome

  • Intellectual Disability

  • Developmental disability

  • Acquired disabilities

Who uses AAC?