AAC Devices: What Parents Need to Know
AAC can give children another way to communicate their wants, needs, thoughts, and feelings. Learn what AAC is, the different forms it can take, and why it doesn't prevent speech development.
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) can give children additional ways to express wants, needs, thoughts, feelings, and ideas. AAC can include speech-generating devices, communication apps, picture systems, signs, gestures, and other communication tools. It can be used alongside spoken language or as an alternative when speech isn't meeting a child's communication needs.
What you'll learn
What AAC means
Different types of AAC
Who may benefit from AAC
How AAC can support everyday communication
Why AAC does not mean giving up on spoken language
Why children don't have to be a certain age to begin using AAC
Why the right communication system should be individualized
Quick Tip: AAC isn't a last resort. If a child is having difficulty communicating, AAC can provide another way to communicate while their other communication skills continue developing.
Disclaimer: This resource is for general educational purposes only and is not medical, speech-language, or professional advice. AAC systems should be selected and supported based on the individual child's communication needs and abilities. A speech-language pathologist and other qualified professionals can help evaluate communication needs and determine appropriate supports.
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Autism Therapies & Tips
Autism therapy isn't one-size-fits-all. Learn about common therapies, practical caregiver strategies, and why individualized goals and the right fit matter.
Exploring autism therapies can feel overwhelming, especially when every child has different strengths, needs, communication styles, and goals. This infographic introduces common therapy options and practical tips for helping families understand and support their autistic child.
What you'll learn
Common therapies and supports used with autistic children
What speech therapy can support
What occupational therapy can support
How behavioral and developmental approaches may be used
Why therapy goals should be individualized
Practical ways caregivers can support skills at home
Why finding the right fit matters more than simply doing more therapy
Quick Tip: More therapy isn't automatically better. Look at what the therapy is helping your child do, how your child responds to it, and whether the goals actually matter to your child's daily life.
Disclaimer: This resource is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Autism therapies and supports should be individualized to the child's needs, goals, preferences, and circumstances. Talk with your child's healthcare providers and qualified therapists when deciding which services or interventions may be appropriate.
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New free resources are added regularly to the Maternal Menace Resource Library.