What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication?
This blog post was written by Kindred co-founder Nolan Shaffer.
When I first began my journey to become an S2C practitioner, I thought that Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) was only associated with technology. In actuality, AAC is any form of communication that does not rely on speech or talking. There are various forms of AAC that utilize apps and software (and we have a specialist who focuses on technology) but AAC can also be “low-tech”. At Kindred, we begin the journey into AAC by using letter boards and stencil boards to develop the motor or movement skills to point intentionally and purposefully. S2C and RPM are also considered AAC.
Myth: My child will lose speech capabilities when pursuing Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Speech is a miracle. Controlling our mouth, lips, tongue, and vocal cords in unison is complex, to say the least. Watch the video below which shows an MRI of the articulators in action. The video is slowed down to show the subtle movements of the articulators. Live video of movements during speech production (MRI at 20 ms.)
Speech is always an important goal. We here at Kindred support the furthering of speech development.
Yesterday I was doing a consultation with a concerned parent. Her 7-year-old boy was prompt dependent in his speech and she was exploring Augmentative and Alternative Communication for the first time. After a few minutes, it became apparent that the mother was believing a popular myth. She believed that pursuing Augmentative and Alternative Communication could hinder her son's speech development. That would make sense in theory and many people have believed this myth for decades. A parent or guardian may ask the question: If my child relies on an alternative form of communication, will his speech become an afterthought? According to Darlene Hansen, Licensed Speech and Language Pathologist and our Director of Communication, research has shown that this is not the case. Furthering the expression of language through AAC has been shown to help develop and further speech in some individuals.
Let's break this down. When we are teaching a speller to communicate their language through pointing on a letterboard, keyboard, iPad, etc. we are providing an adapted and easier way to communicate. Pointing on a letterboard slows down the speller and provides an ability to express deeper thoughts, ideas, and opinions. A spelling or AAC lesson is usually accompanied by an educational lesson. A lesson plan provides shared information with the communication partner.
When the communication partner provides shared information and asks strategic questions, it helps develop the art of conversation and deeper expression. This expression can transfer from expression through Augmentative and Alternative Communication to expression through speaking.
