What is aac (augmentative and alternative communication) in speech therapy?

Any tool that helps a child communicate without speaking—picture boards, apps, sign language, or speech devices. AAC does NOT prevent speech; it supports communication while speech develops. Example: A child pointing to a picture of a truck on a communication board to request it.

🎯Therapy Approaches

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)

What is aac (augmentative and alternative communication) in speech therapy?

Any tool that helps a child communicate without speaking—picture boards, apps, sign language, or speech devices. AAC does NOT prevent speech; it supports communication while speech develops.

Example

A child pointing to a picture of a truck on a communication board to request it.

🔊 Using pictures to communicate

How can I help my child with aac (augmentative and alternative communication)?

Our visual vehicle cards can support AAC users by providing consistent imagery.

Explore Talk & Listen App

About this guide: This glossary is designed to help parents understand speech therapy terminology. Definitions are simplified for clarity and informed by resources from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).

Not medical advice: This information is educational only. For concerns about your child's speech development, consult a licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP).Find an SLP near you →

Learn More From Trusted Sources

ASHA: Speech & Language Development Chart— Official milestones by age
ASHA: Late Blooming or Language Problem?— When to seek help
Identify the Signs— ASHA's early intervention resource

Parents Also Ask

What is AAC in speech therapy?▼

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) includes any tool that helps communication: picture boards, sign language, apps, or speech devices. "Augmentative" means it adds to speech. "Alternative" means it replaces speech when needed.

Will AAC prevent my child from talking?▼

No! Research shows AAC actually SUPPORTS speech development. Children who use AAC often develop more speech, not less. AAC reduces frustration and gives them a way to communicate while speech develops.

When should a child start using AAC?▼

There's no "too early" for AAC. If your child is struggling to communicate verbally, AAC can help immediately. Early AAC use supports language development and reduces frustration. Talk to your SLP about options.

"The pictures of trucks are very relatable to boys which is perfect since a lot of boys need help with building speech and language."

Grace Zaras M.S CCC-SLP — ZARASpeech Company

Trusted by 25+ Speech-Language PathologistsSee all SLP reviews →

Related Terms

Core Words

The small set of powerful words (about 200-400) that make up 80% of what we say every day. Words like "go," "stop," "more," "want," "help" are more useful than nouns like "truck" because they work in many situations.

Visual Supports

Pictures, symbols, schedules, or written words that help children understand routines and communicate. Helpful for all children, especially those with language delays or autism.

More Therapy Approaches

View all →

Gestalt Language Processing Modeling Expansion Recasting Parallel Talk Self-Talk

Learn More About Speech Development

Speech Therapy at Home Do Speech Apps Actually Work?8 Best Speech Apps for Late Talkers Speech Blubs Alternatives

Explore our parent guides for more speech development resources.

Support Your Child's Speech Development

Little Wheels apps use vehicle-based learning to make speech practice engaging and fun. Perfect for home practice between therapy sessions.

Explore Talk & Listen Browse All Terms