By Allison Schmidt -Link therapies

Speech-Language Pathologist

Give It Time: Supporting Your Child as They Learn to Use Their AAC Device

When introducing an AAC device (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) to your child, one of the most important things you can do is give it time. Learning to use AAC is just like learning a new language—not only for your child but also for you as their communication partner.

Just like babies need to hear and see language before they begin to speak, AAC users need time to:

Explore their AAC system
Hear and see words modeled consistently
Start making connections between symbols and meaning
Make mistakes and learn from them

What AAC Learning Might Look Like

At first, it might seem like your child is simply tapping around or “playing” with their AAC device. But this seemingly random activity is crucial. It helps your child:

Discover how the system works
Learn the location of key vocabulary
Practice the motor skills needed for accurate selection
Understand that the device is a tool for communication

How to Help at Home with AAC

You play a vital role in your child’s success with AAC. Here are three parent-friendly tips for encouraging communication through exploration:

1. Be Present and Talk With Them

Sit beside your child while they use their AAC system. Talk about what they’re trying to say and show them you value their attempts. As a parent, you are a powerful communication model.

2. Allow for Mistakes

Don’t worry about correcting every button press. Exploration is how kids learn. Just like with spoken language, children need room to make mistakes before they can use AAC intentionally and fluently.

3. Celebrate All Attempts

Whether your child selects a single word or presses a whole sentence, celebrate it! Every communication attempt matters. Just like we cheer on a baby who babbles for the first time, we need to encourage early AAC use with enthusiasm and positivity.

Final Thoughts

Your child’s journey with AAC will take time—and that’s okay. By being supportive, patient, and engaged, you help build their confidence and communication skills every step of the way.

If you’re looking for more resources on AAC for kids or need guidance on how to support your child’s language development, we’re here to help. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our speech-language pathologists!

“Very happy with all of the speech sessions. Our therapist was always willing to answer and explain any questions I had in a way I could easily understand. She worked with me on the goals we focused on and really listened to my concerns. Most importantly my daughter LOVED seeing and “playing” with her each week.”

“We had more than a positive experience, our therapist was flexible, friendly and caring, our son was always happy to see her. Despite the pandemic, she made every effort to meet him either virtually or in person, even when we asked to meet at a local park, she was always ready to create a fun environment for him, innovative in every way to get him engaged. He has made a significant progress in his speech skills. She also made sure to equip us the parents to address his needs and help him to progress. We highly appreciate her help.”

“Our therapist really personalized all of my son's therapy sessions and always created interest and engagement in the work she did with him. They had a great bond! He always looked forward to their sessions!”

“We are deeply grateful for the expertise, compassion, and guidance Laura has provided to our child and family as a whole. She is a bright light in our lives. Thank you so very much for all that you do!”

“Dory Burns was very professional punctual and amazing with my son from barely talking to multiple words I never knew he knew. Thanks for having her on your team to help my son grow into a better version of himself."