AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)/A‑A‑C (A‑E‑C)/
Tools and methods that support or replace spoken language so people can communicate (e.g., symbol boards, text-to-speech, sign, eye-gaze).
Andy says:
AAC is like adding extra lanes to a busy road so ideas can flow. If speaking is hard right now or always, AAC gives you another way to be heard.
Detailed Explanation
AAC ranges from low‑tech to high‑tech, and can be used alongside speech.
Examples:
- Low‑tech: paper symbol boards, letterboards, communication books, gestures/sign
- Mid‑tech: single‑message buttons, simple voice output devices
- High‑tech: robust apps, dedicated devices, and eye‑gaze systems
AAC supports people whose speech is unreliable, fatiguing, situational, or unavailable. Using AAC does not prevent speech development. Effective access requires time, modeling, and practice in real contexts.
Community Context
Neurodivergent communities advocate for AAC as a right, not a last resort. AAC reduces masking pressure, supports autonomy during shutdowns, and enables participation in school, healthcare, and work. Everyone benefits when multiple communication options are normalized.
Quick Tips
- Offer text/chat, writing, or buttons alongside talk in meetings and classes
- Model AAC (point to symbols while speaking) to build familiarity
- Allow extra response time; confirm you’re listening even without speech
Do / Don't
- Do: presume competence; ask preferred methods; accept non-speaking replies
- Do: provide written agendas and summaries
- Don't: remove AAC “to encourage speech”
- Don't: demand eye contact or immediate answers
Scripts (Examples)
- "How would you like to communicate—talk, text, or AAC?"
- "Take your time; I’ll wait."
- "I’ll summarize in writing after this."
Scientific Context
Research shows AAC improves participation, learning, and quality of life across ages and conditions. Best practice emphasizes aided language stimulation, partner training, and access across settings.
Language Notes
AAC includes aided (tools) and unaided (sign/gestures) methods. Terms vary by region; principles are consistent: access, modeling, autonomy.
Related Terms
Neuroaffirming
Creating spaces, practices, and attitudes that accept and support neurodivergent people as they are, rather than trying to change, fix, or hide their differences.
Accommodations
Changes to the environment, tools, timing, or expectations that remove barriers so a person can participate on an equal basis.
Masking
Consciously or unconsciously hiding one's neurodivergent traits to fit in with neurotypical expectations.
Sensory Processing Disorder
A condition in which the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses.
Executive Dysfunction
Difficulties with a set of mental skills that include working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control.
Autistic Shutdown
An involuntary response to overload where an autistic person becomes very quiet or unresponsive, withdrawing to protect themselves and reduce input.
Autistic Meltdown
An involuntary state of overwhelming distress in which an autistic person temporarily loses the ability to self-regulate, often resulting in crying, shouting, pacing, or other intense behaviors.
Sources
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