Helping Your Child Speak Their Mind Through AAC Support

For many children with speech and language challenges, finding their voice can feel impossible. Whether due to autism, cerebral palsy, apraxia of speech, Down syndrome, or other developmental delays, communication barriers can affect every part of a child’s life—from social interactions to learning and emotional well-being. That’s where AAC support comes in.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) empowers children who have difficulty speaking to express their needs, thoughts, and feelings. At The Way You Say LLC, we specialize in AAC evaluations and therapy to help children across New Jersey unlock their true communication potential.

Below, we’ll explain what AAC is, the types of AAC systems available, how AAC evaluations work, and how AAC therapy can transform your child’s ability to communicate and connect with the world.

What Is AAC?

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to all forms of communication other than oral speech used to express thoughts, wants, needs, and ideas. AAC helps individuals who are partially or completely nonverbal or those who struggle with speech production.

AAC can include:

• Unaided communication systems: gestures, sign language, facial expressions.

• Low-tech AAC: picture boards, communication books, printed visuals.

• High-tech AAC: speech-generating devices (SGDs), tablets with communication apps like Proloquo2Go or TouchChat.

AAC is not “giving up” on speech—it’s about giving children access to communication while supporting their speech development. In fact, studies show that AAC use does not delay speech—it often encourages verbal development.

Why AAC Support Is Life-Changing for Children

When a child cannot express their basic wants or emotions, frustration builds. This often leads to behavioral issues, isolation, and lowered self-esteem. AAC gives children the tools to express themselves confidently, reducing frustration and building trust between them and their caregivers, teachers, and peers.

The benefits of AAC support include:

• Increased independence and autonomy

• Improved behavior and reduced meltdowns

• Enhanced social interaction and participation

• Boost in academic performance

• Stronger parent-child communication

At The Way You Say LLC, we view AAC not just as a communication tool, but as a gateway to a better quality of life.

Understanding AAC Evaluations

AAC support begins with a comprehensive AAC evaluation. This personalized process helps determine the best communication tools and strategies for your child.

What happens during an AAC evaluation?

1. Assessment of communication needs: We gather information about your child’s current abilities, daily routines, and goals.

2. Trial of AAC systems: Your child is introduced to a variety of AAC tools—both low-tech and high-tech.

3. Collaboration with parents and professionals: We work closely with families, educators, and healthcare providers to ensure a holistic approach.

4. Device and strategy recommendations: Based on the findings, we recommend AAC systems tailored to your child’s needs and preferences.

Our evaluations consider motor abilities, cognitive skills, sensory needs, language development, and more. The goal is to match your child with a communication system that’s effective, accessible, and engaging.

AAC Support Is a Journey—Not a One-Time Fix

One common misconception is that once a child receives a communication device, they’ll instantly know how to use it. In reality, AAC is a learning process that requires support, training, and time.

That’s why The Way You Say LLC goes beyond evaluations—we provide ongoing AAC therapy to ensure your child:

• Learns to navigate and use their AAC system confidently

• Understands how to express ideas, feelings, and choices

• Builds vocabulary over time

• Practices real-life communication scenarios

• Gains social interaction skills through play and structured activities

We also train parents, teachers, and caregivers to integrate AAC into daily life, making communication opportunities consistent and meaningful.

How to Know If Your Child Needs AAC

If your child is struggling with speech or not meeting developmental milestones, an AAC evaluation might be appropriate. Here are some signs your child may benefit from AAC:

• Limited or no verbal speech

• Reliance on gestures or pointing

• Difficulty forming words or sentences

• Frustration when trying to communicate

• Diagnosed speech or language disorders

• Nonverbal autism or cognitive delays

Even children who can speak may benefit from AAC tools for clarification, support in stressful situations, or to increase language complexity.

Common Myths About AAC—Debunked

Let’s clear up a few misconceptions that often discourage families from seeking AAC support.

Myth 1: “AAC will stop my child from talking.”

Truth: AAC often supports speech development by giving children a model and reducing communication pressure.

Myth 2: “My child is too young for AAC.”

Truth: Early intervention is best. Even toddlers can benefit from simple picture-based AAC.

Myth 3: “AAC is only for kids with severe disabilities.”

Truth: AAC is for anyone with communication challenges, regardless of diagnosis.

Myth 4: “All AAC devices are expensive and complicated.”

Truth: There are affordable, user-friendly options—many covered by insurance or school systems.

At The Way You Say LLC, we help you navigate these decisions, advocate for funding when needed, and train your family on the system chosen.

Our AAC Evaluation and Support Process

At The Way You Say LLC, our AAC services are rooted in compassion, experience, and evidence-based practice.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Thorough evaluations conducted by licensed speech-language pathologists

• Experience with a wide range of AAC tools, from basic visuals to advanced speech-generating devices

• Custom AAC therapy plans tailored to your child’s learning style and abilities

• Family training and support so communication continues beyond the therapy session

• Collaboration with schools and therapists for a team-based approach

We’re proud to support children and families throughout New Jersey, helping them find their voice—whatever form that takes.

Real-Life Example: Empowering Expression Through AAC

One of our young clients, a 4-year-old with nonverbal autism, came to us using only gestures to communicate. Through a comprehensive AAC evaluation, we introduced a tablet-based system with visual symbols. Over time, with regular therapy and family involvement, this child learned to request snacks, express feelings, and even tell jokes—something his parents had only dreamed of before.

AAC didn’t replace his voice. It gave him one.

FAQs About AAC Support

Question: At what age can a child start using AAC?
Answer: Children as young as 12 months can begin using basic AAC tools like picture cards or sign language. Early introduction often leads to better outcomes.

Question: Will insurance cover AAC evaluations or devices?
Answer: In many cases, yes. We assist families in navigating insurance approvals and finding funding for AAC tools when needed.

Question: Can my child still work on speech while using AAC?
Answer: Absolutely. AAC complements speech therapy and may even promote verbal development by reducing frustration and modeling language.

Question: How long does it take for a child to learn AAC?
Answer: Every child is different. Some begin using it right away, while others need gradual training. Consistent use and support are key to success.

Question: What if my child’s school doesn’t support AAC?
Answer: We can collaborate with educators to ensure AAC is integrated into your child’s learning plan and provide training if needed.

Question: What types of AAC devices do you recommend?
Answer: We work with a variety of AAC systems, including TouchChat, LAMP Words for Life, Proloquo2Go, Tobii Dynavox, and others—depending on your child’s abilities and preferences.

Question: Is training provided for parents?
Answer: Yes. Parent and caregiver training is a crucial part of our AAC support model. We want families to feel confident in using AAC at home.

Helping Your Child Speak Their Mind Starts Here

Every child deserves a voice—and for some, that voice comes through AAC. At The Way You Say LLC, we’re passionate about giving children the tools to express themselves fully, make choices, and build meaningful connections.

If your child struggles to communicate, don’t wait. An AAC evaluation could be the first step toward a brighter, more expressive future.