AAC is short for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. AAC is an assistive technology that aids in communication meaning it is an effective means for individuals to communicate when they do not have the physical ability to use verbal speech or writing. AAC is a term used to describe the various methods of communication designed to help people who struggle with speech express their thoughts, needs and ideas. AAC can range from a simple set of picture symbols on a communication board up to high-end speech generating devices. The symbols used in AAC include pictures, gestures, line drawings, letters or words.

AAC can be a temporary aid for those with speech and language impairments or a permanent solution as a person’s primary means of communication for a lifetime. Common causes for severe speech impairments include congenital conditions such as cerebral palsy and autism. There are dedicated AAC devices which are electronic hardware systems designed specifically for communication. These devices range from simple clock communicators to complex systems with many access and language features.

Assistive technology (AT) is any item, piece of equipment, software program, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities. Assistive technology can be viewed as an extension of the individual in facilitating the use of assistive technology devices function better and effectively without any outside assistance.

• AT can be low-tech: communication boards made of cardboard or fuzzy felt.

• AT can be high-tech: special-purpose computers.

• AT can be hardware: prosthetics, mounting systems, and positioning devices.

• AT can be computer hardware: special switches, keyboards, and pointing devices.

• AT can be computer software: screen readers and communication programs.

• AT can be inclusive or specialized learning materials and curriculum aids.

• AT can be specialized curricular software.

• AT can be much more—electronic devices, wheelchairs, walkers, braces, educational software, power lifts, pencil holders, eye-gaze and head trackers, and much more.

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Assistive technology helps people who have difficulty speaking, typing, writing, remembering, pointing, seeing, hearing, learning, walking, and many other things. Different disabilities require different assistive technologies.

Early intervention is for children ages birth to 3 years. 

Is your child meeting their milestones? Do they understand verbal as well as non-verbal communication? Do they react when you smile, clap, make other sounds?

Missed milestones are a problem, and it doesn't get better with time. It gets better with treatment. And this treatment needs to be customized to the needs of your child.

Language disorders are not the same as speech disorders. You can have problems with language while your speech is perfect. Here are some key differences/definitions of language disorders.Receptive language disorder: your child is having difficulty understanding what they are being told or processing other written/verbal input.Expressive language disorder: your child is having difficulty saying what they want to say in order to get their point or meaning across.We can help with both. Studies have shown that as much as 5% of children have expressive and/or receptive language problems before they reach the first grade. This is not a phase your child is going through, but it is very treatable.Expressing and understanding language is key to success in school and life.

People with autism have challenges with communication and social skills. They often find it hard to have conversations and may not pick up on social cues. Some people with autism may not talk at all, and others may talk very well. But all will have some challenges making friends and communicating socially.People with autism also have some type of restricted interest or repetitive behaviors. They may focus on one topic, like cars or a television show, or they may be attached to a certain object or activity. A person with autism may not like changes in their schedule or changes in the way they do something.Autism can range on a spectrum from mild to severe, depending on how much these challenges affect everyday life.

Can you or your child make the sounds you need to make in order to speak? It is one thing to speak, but you need to be understood. Sometimes we have trouble making the right sounds to form words that people understand. This is articulation disorder. Articulation disorders are not a phase that just goes away with time. Over time, the disorder can become worse and affect how a child performs in school and socially. The good news is that an articulation disorder that is treated soon can be remediated quickly with less chance of regression later on in life.