When a child has complex communication needs, many parents, teachers, and therapists quickly start thinking about which AAC device will best support them. With today’s easy access to robust AAC apps and dedicated speech-generating devices, it’s understandable that we want to give children the most powerful tools available as soon as possible.

And that’s exactly what we should be doing—considering what could become a child’s robust method of communication. However, we need to be careful that we don’t prioritize forcing a technology solution over building meaningful interactions.

AAC is More Than a Device

There are no prerequisites to AAC—every child deserves access to communication, regardless of age, ability, or skills. But AAC doesn’t always mean a high-tech device is the only tool provided. Instead, every child benefits from multi-modal communication opportunities—a combination of high-tech and low-tech solutions that support learning and engagement.

For example, a child with vision and motor impairments may ultimately benefit from an advanced auditory scanning system, but if they are just beginning to understand the power of communication, we don’t want to create unnecessary barriers. Equipment has a learning curve for both the child and their communication partners, and when technology fails or overwhelms the adults supporting them, communication can break down.

Multi-Modal Communication: Setting the Stage for Success

So how do we balance introducing a robust system while ensuring interaction remains at the center? By making sure that children have multiple ways to communicate while learning to use their AAC system:

• ‍Model on the robust system regularly, even if the child isn’t using it independently yet.‍
• Use aided language input with core boards, PODD books, or other visual supports to reinforce communication throughout the day.‍
• Encourage unaided responses, like vocalizations, gestures, and body movements, to give children easy, immediate ways to engage.‍
• Provide predictable choices using verbal or partner-assisted scanning, allowing the child to indicate a response without requiring direct access to a device.
  

The Goal: Leading Toward Autonomous Communication

High-tech AAC is a powerful tool, and we want to identify the most appropriate robust system for each child. But communication isn’t about just using a device—it’s about building connections.

For our youngest learners, perhaps even more than their older counterparts, communication should be natural, engaging, and multi-modal. The goal isn’t to make technology the only option, but to support autonomous communication—wherever and however a child can express themselves best.