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.

Observations

Has lots to say but has difficulty getting their message across

Becomes frustrated when others don't understand them

Uses gestures, pointing, pictures, or takes your hand to communicate

Understands more than they can express with speech

Has trouble communicating their wants, needs, thoughts, or feelings consistently

Finds it difficult to start or keep conversations with others

Benefits from visual supports or enjoys communicating with pictures, symbols, or technology

Observations

Has lots to say but has difficulty getting their message across

Becomes frustrated when others don't understand them

Uses gestures, pointing, pictures, or takes your hand to communicate

Understands more than they can express with speech

Has trouble communicating their wants, needs, thoughts, or feelings consistently

Finds it difficult to start or keep conversations with others

Benefits from visual supports or enjoys communicating with pictures, symbols, or technology

Observations

Has lots to say but has difficulty getting their message across

Becomes frustrated when others don't understand them

Uses gestures, pointing, pictures, or takes your hand to communicate

Understands more than they can express with speech

Has trouble communicating their wants, needs, thoughts, or feelings consistently

Finds it difficult to start or keep conversations with others

Benefits from visual supports or enjoys communicating with pictures, symbols, or technology

Communication support

Communication support

Communication support

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Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)