• Augmentative and Alternative Communication
• Floor Time
• Joint Action Routines
• Music Therapy
• Naturalistic Language Strategies
• Picture Exchange Communication System
• World of Play

Augmentative and Alternative Communication: Introduction

For a variety of reasons, some individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are unable to communicate effectively by speaking. Without an effective communication system, they are unable to convey even the most basic of wants and needs. For them Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) may be a solution.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to any system or method of communication that is used to replace or support speech for individuals whose verbal skills are limited or lacking.

Let's Take a Look at AAC in Action.

• James points to a toy on a shelf and looks toward parent. When asked if he wants the toy, James nods yes.
• While eating a meal Alex reaches for his communication board, grabs a picture of cookie, and hands it to his caregiver. The caregiver responds by giving him the cookie.
• Grace is listening to music in her classroom. When her music stops, she presses a switch on a simple device that “speaks” the message “I need help”. A teacher hears the message and quickly comes to help her.

All three of these children are unable to use speech effectively and yet are able to communicate basic information through use of AAC.

To find out more about Augmentative and Alternative Communication read this lesson.

Lecture Content

The lesson is broken down into a sequence of sequential phases:

• Definition AAC and rational for its use
• Review of types of AAC
• Issues in decision making
• Available Resources