Supporting Your Child’s Communication with AAC at Home

Parent Handout

Your child’s AAC device is their voice. The more they see it used, the more they will use it.

What You Can Do Every Day

1. Keep the device nearby

·     Have it available all day (not just during therapy)

·     Bring it to meals, playtime, outings, and routines

2. Model simple words

·     While you talk, press 1–2 words on the device

·     Example:

o  “Let’s go outside” → press GO

o  “Do you want more?” → press MORE

No pressure - just show them how to use it

3. Use core words often

Focus on simple, powerful words:

·     go, stop, more, help, want, like, not, turn

Use the same words in many activities

4. Create chances to communicate

·     Give a little → wait → look expectant

·     Pause during fun activities

·     Hold a favorite item and wait

Wait 5–10 seconds

5. Accept all communication

·     Wrong button? That’s okay

·     Sounds + gestures + AAC = communication

Respond as if they communicated successfully

6. Make it fun and meaningful

·     Follow your child’s interests

·     Use AAC during play and routines

·     Celebrate every attempt 🎉

7. Be patient

Communication grows over time:

1.   Watching

2.   Using with help

3.   Using independently

Remember:

✔ Model more, test less

✔ Keep it simple

✔ Make it part of daily life

✔ Every attempt matters

Home AAC Routine Checklist

Use this daily to support your child’s communication:

Daily Use

☐ AAC device is within reach all day
☐ Device is used during meals
☐ Device is used during play

Modeling

☐ I model 1–2 words while speaking
☐ I use core words (go, more, help, etc.)
☐ I model without asking my child to repeat every time

Communication Opportunities

☐ I pause during activities
☐ I wait 5–10 seconds
☐ I give my child a reason to communicate

Responding

☐ I accept all communication attempts
☐ I respond even if the button is “wrong”
☐ I praise and encourage attempts

Consistency

☐ I use the same words across routines
☐ I follow similar strategies as school
☐ I share updates with teachers/SLP

Engagement

☐ I use AAC during fun activities
☐ I follow my child’s interests
☐ I keep communication positive and stress-free