Celebrating AAC Awareness Month: The Importance of Augmentative and Alternative Communication

October is AAC Awareness Month, a time to celebrate, educate, and advocate for the importance of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). For many children, especially those who face challenges with verbal communication, AAC opens the door to connection, expression, and participation in daily life.

At Therapy Smarts of Durham and Chapel Hill, we see firsthand how AAC changes lives—not only for children on the autism spectrum, but also for those receiving speech, occupational, and physical therapy.

What is AAC?

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication—any tool, strategy, or system that supports communication beyond spoken words. This includes:

• Low-tech options like picture cards, communication boards, or sign language.
• High-tech options like speech-generating devices, iPads with communication apps, or specialized computer systems.

AAC doesn’t replace speech—it supplements and supports communication, empowering children to share their needs, thoughts, and feelings.

Why AAC is Important for Children

Communication is at the heart of learning, play, and relationships. For children who have difficulty with verbal expression, AAC helps them:

• Express needs and wants (which reduces frustration and behaviors tied to communication breakdowns).
• Participate in school and therapy sessions by answering questions, following routines, or engaging in group activities.
• Build social connections with peers, siblings, and caregivers.
• Develop independence and confidence in everyday interactions.

AAC and Therapy Services

AAC often works best when supported by a team approach. At Therapy Smarts, our speech, occupational, and physical therapists collaborate to ensure children can use AAC effectively across environments.

• Speech Therapy: Focuses on developing language, teaching children how to navigate devices, and supporting functional communication.
• Occupational Therapy: Helps with motor skills needed to access AAC tools—like pointing, touching, or navigating buttons—and ensures devices fit into daily routines.
• Physical Therapy: Supports posture, positioning, and mobility so children can comfortably and effectively use their AAC systems.

By combining these therapies, we give children the tools and strategies they need to thrive in all settings.

AAC and Autism

For many children on the autism spectrum, communication challenges can make it hard to connect with the world around them. AAC provides a bridge—whether it’s using visuals to structure routines, apps to share preferences, or devices to join conversations.

Importantly, research shows that AAC does not prevent speech development. In fact, AAC often helps children with autism develop spoken language by reinforcing communication pathways.

A Team Effort

AAC works best when everyone is involved—therapists, teachers, parents, and peers. Families play a vital role in modeling and encouraging AAC at home, while therapists provide guidance, training, and support. Together, we create an environment where communication is possible for every child.

If you have questions about AAC or think your child may benefit from an evaluation, contact us at our Durham or Chapel Hill clinics (919) 378-1340. We’re here to help children find their voice, however it comes to life.