Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC)

Kids+ have advanced knowledge, skills, and resources for supporting Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC).

AAC includes an individual’s full communication abilities such as vocalisations and use of words, gesture, sign language and aided communication.

Our team can explore the multiple ways that your child uses to communicate and can provide additional strategies, tools, and equipment to expand and enhance their communication and interaction with others.

Children with disabilities using AAC technology to learn in a classroom setting

What is AAC?

A Man in a mobility device wearing a Kids+ Shirt while using AAC technology

Augmentative Communication is when we add something to the speech to make it clearer to the listeners. This can include using signs or pictures to clarify what you want to say.

Alternative Communication is when a different communication method is needed when we are unable to speak, or the listeners do not understand speech.

Communication is a fundamental human right. The purpose of AAC is to provide the person with a form of communication so that they can:

Express their needs and wants
Participate in making their own life choices and expressing their opinions
Make and maintain relationships.
Make connections with others at school, in the workplace and in the community.

AAConnect Programs at Kids+

AAC Siblings Looking at a screen in a session

Group of 3 young adults they are in wheelchairs and using assisted technology in an AAC Session

AAConnect Videos

What our families say

“The most powerful and special moment was when my son told me that he loves me using his AAC device”

Meet the Kids+ AAC Team

Noah Callan

AAC & Technology Coordinator

AAC News

Featured

AAC and the Workplace

We all want to achieve greatness within ourselves, make a difference in our communities, and leave a legacy.

But, what if the person in the job cannot communicate verbally to their colleagues? That’s when AAC comes in.

AAC and the Importance of Modelling

When you start exploring the world of AAC especially as a kid, it can be overwhelming as there are so many options to choose from. Take time to try various devices and programs, don’t be in a rush to choose which one is right for you. It is a huge investment, a bit like buying a car. It has to fit your lifestyle and personal preferences.

AAC and Advocacy

One of the greatest things we do every day is communicate with one another to connect. It is an important and necessary part of life. Without the existence of communication between humans, I am not sure how the world would cope and I wonder if people would get along. Imagine if you couldn’t communicate verbally. How would you feel? This is the reality for many non-verbal people who have a voice inside but cannot output their message.

AAC - a parent perspective. Olivia’s (and my) journey with AAC – how a shift in perspective changed everything

Supporting young people who use AAC in the community - in the shoes of a support worker