AAC doesn't inhibit speech and language development

One of the most common concerns parents have when AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) is recommended is:

“Will using AAC stop my child from learning to talk?”

The evidence says no.

AAC includes communication methods such as signs, gestures, communication boards and speech-generating devices. It can be used alongside spoken language and does not need to be a replacement for speech.

What does the research tell us?

Research examining AAC and speech development has found that AAC does not prevent or reduce speech production. In fact, some children demonstrate increases in spoken communication while using AAC.

A systematic review of AAC interventions for children with autism found that AAC interventions were associated with improvements in speech production overall, although speech gains were generally smaller than the gains seen in AAC communication.

Research also shows that AAC can support broader communication and language development, including expressive and receptive communication, functional communication and participation.

More recent research has found that incorporating AAC into language interventions may support language outcomes for autistic children with minimal speech.

Why doesn't AAC stop speech?

AAC gives a child another way to communicate while their spoken language is developing.

Instead of waiting for speech to develop before giving a child a reliable way to communicate, AAC allows them to communicate now — to request, comment, reject, ask questions, share ideas and interact with other people.

Importantly, AAC does not mean that we stop supporting speech. Speech can continue to be encouraged and modelled alongside AAC.

AAC gives children a voice

Every child deserves a reliable way to communicate.

For some children, speech may develop alongside AAC. For others, AAC may remain an important part of how they communicate. We cannot always predict exactly how a child's communication will develop — but providing AAC does not take away their opportunity to develop speech.

The goal isn't to choose between speech or AAC.

The goal is to give children the tools they need to communicate successfully.

Supporting children with AAC in Sydney's north-west

At The Speech Spot, we support children and families with speech, language and communication development, including AAC.

We provide paediatric speech pathology services across The Hills District, Parramatta, Ryde, Epping and surrounding areas, as well as clinic-based and telehealth services.

If you're wondering whether AAC might be appropriate for your child, a speech pathologist can assess their communication needs and help identify an AAC system that suits them.

AAC doesn't take away the opportunity to develop speech — it gives children a way to communicate while they do