Celebrating AAC Awareness Month: Giving Every Voice a Chance to Be Heard

October is AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) Awareness Month—a time to shine a light on the incredible ways communication can take many forms. For some children and adults, spoken language isn’t the easiest way to express thoughts, needs, or feelings. And that’s where AAC comes in.

What is AAC?

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It’s a broad term that includes low-tech options like picture boards or symbol cards, and high-tech devices like speech-generating tablets. AAC doesn’t replace speech; it supports communication, allowing people to share ideas, make choices, and connect with the world around them.

Why AAC Matters

Imagine having thoughts, feelings, and ideas but struggling to make others understand. That’s the daily reality for many people with complex communication needs. AAC is more than a tool—it’s a bridge to independence, confidence, and connection.

I’ve seen this firsthand with my own son, who has been using AAC since January. Before AAC, frustration could build quickly when he struggled to express what he wanted or needed. Since starting, he’s been able to communicate more clearly and consistently, which has reduced frustration and made daily routines much smoother. Even more exciting, using AAC has supported progress in his speech, giving him multiple ways to express himself while learning spoken words.

Common Myths About AAC

1. “Using AAC stops speech development.”
   In fact, AAC often supports speech development by giving children a way to communicate while they are learning spoken language.
2. “Only children with severe disabilities need AAC.”
   AAC is for anyone with communication challenges, including autism, Down syndrome, apraxia, cerebral palsy, or other conditions that impact speech.
3. “AAC is complicated and hard to use.”
   AAC tools are highly adaptable. With the right support and consistent modelling, people of all ages can learn to use them effectively.

How to Support AAC Users

• Model language: Show how to use AAC in everyday routines, just as you would with speech.
• Encourage choices: Let the user select what they want to eat, play with, or wear using their AAC system.
• Celebrate all communication: Gestures, eye gaze, vocalizations, and facial expressions all count!
• Share awareness: Talk about AAC with friends, schools, and communities. The more people know, the more inclusive we become.

A Message to Families and Professionals

Every person deserves a voice that can be heard and understood. AAC is a powerful tool that can open doors to education, social connection, and personal expression. This October, let’s celebrate AAC, raise awareness, and empower communication for all.