AAC
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
Supporting individuals in expressing themselves through tools and strategies beyond speech, such as communication devices, symbols, gestures, and other systems.
Overview
What is AAC?
Communication is a fundamental human right, and every person deserves access to a way of expressing themselves that feels authentic, effective, and meaningful. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) includes tools and strategies that support communication beyond spoken words, such as speech-generating devices, communication boards, symbols, gestures, and other personalized systems.
At Savvy Communication Studio, AAC support is centered around autonomy, connection, and honoring each individual's unique communication style. We believe AAC is not a replacement for speech — it is a way to expand communication access and provide people with more opportunities to share their thoughts, needs, preferences, ideas, and personality.
Our approach focuses on meaningful communication in everyday life through collaboration with individuals, families, and support teams. We prioritize modeling, exploration, and creating communication environments where every person is supported in communicating in the ways that work best for them.
What to Expect: AAC Evaluation
Step 1: Understanding Communication Needs & Goals
We begin by learning about the individual’s current communication methods, strengths, preferences, and goals. We’ll discuss communication challenges, daily routines, important relationships, and the environments where effective communication is most needed.
Step 2: Comprehensive AAC Assessment
An AAC evaluation explores how different communication systems and supports may help an individual express themselves more effectively. Through observation, interviews, communication samples, and individualized assessment activities, we consider current communication abilities, motor skills, sensory preferences, language skills, and access needs.
Step 3: Explore AAC Options
There is no one-size-fits-all communication system. We explore a variety of AAC options, including low-tech supports, visual communication tools, and high-tech speech-generating devices. We consider the individual’s preferences, lifestyle, communication partners, and long-term communication goals when identifying the best fit.
Step 4: Trialing & Personalizing Supports
When appropriate, we provide opportunities to explore different AAC systems and strategies to determine what feels accessible, meaningful, and effective. We focus on creating a system that supports authentic communication, independence, and participation across everyday environments.
Step 5: Recommendations & Next Steps
Following the evaluation, we provide a detailed summary of findings and individualized recommendations. This may include AAC system recommendations, implementation strategies, communication partner coaching, funding support documentation, and collaboration with families, schools, or other professionals.
Step 6: Supporting Successful Implementation
AAC success extends beyond choosing a device or communication system. We provide ongoing support to help communication partners feel confident modeling and creating opportunities for communication throughout daily routines and meaningful activities.
