Strategies that can be used to promote the use of AAC devices

AAC devices, or augmentative and alternative communication devices, are tablets or laptops of sorts that help someone with a speech impediment communicate successfully. Using AAC devices in school is becoming easier and more accessible with all the technology we have access to these days.

To make using these engaging, functional and rewarding, using toys and sensory/therapeutic materials is a great way to teach children how to use their devices.

Strategies for learning to use AAC devices

It is best to find and use materials or subjects that students prefer. Once you learn what they prefer or don’t also prefer, then you can incorporate those items. Be open to trying different things, don’t limit yourself to the specific items you have purchased.

Modeling, modeling, modeling is also important. Use the device with your student in their daily routine and show them how you would expect it to be used to make learning truly meaningful for them.

Terms commonly used on AAC devices

Go/Get/Give

When teaching your student to use devices for simple expressions like go, get, or give, it’s important to know your students’ interests and preferences.

Place some preferred items around the room
Models using their device to ask them to go, get or give you an item
Use positive reinforcement after successfully completing a skill

Open close

If you are teaching your child to communicate terms like open or close, put some of the preferred items in a box or large container for the student to open and close to retrieve them after being asked to open or when he asks you to open. .

Food

Does your student have a preferred snack or meal? A good way to incorporate this item is to reward them for using their equipment correctly.

Other toys/items to use

Teaching your students to communicate their wants and needs is the most important skill they will learn using their AAC devices. Some things to keep handy while learning are: