When to consider?

Did you know there are no prerequisites for AAC?

According to the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA), "the currently accepted evidence suggests that there are no specific prerequisites (e.g., age, cognitive, linguistic, motor) for getting started with AAC" (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, n.d., Augmentative and Alternative Communication, AAC, para. 7).

Read more about Busting the AAC Myth of Prerequisites

AAC Consideration is a team process that should include educators, related service providers, the family and the student, when appropriate. Even if the student does not communicate by speaking, the student may be expressing themselves through actions and/or behaviors. AAC can support the development of functional communication and social emotional skills in students.

This one pager, Five Signs Your Child Needs Augmentative and Alternative Communication, is a good place to start when considering who might be a candidate for AAC.

Communication Bill of Rights - The National Joint Committee for the Communication Needs of Persons with Severe Disabilities (NJC) developed the Communication Bill of Rights to ensure that all individuals are provided what is needed to participate meaningfully in communication interactions. This printable resource from VCU-ACE highlights each of these communication rights.

Communication Bill of Rights, VCU Autism Center for Education
Infographic Description for Communication Bill of Rights