Frequently Asked Questions about Speech and Language Therapy and AAC
How many sessions will be required?
Learning to use AAC is like learning a foreign language. Regular once or twice a week individual sessions of S< need to be followed up with daily communication opportunities in everday situations.
S< invariably continues throughout schooling / college and setting up in different levels of independent living.
Who will benefit from using AAC?
Any person with no or limited natural speech will benefit from using AAC to be able to express themselves clearly to the best of their ability. Most people I work with have Cerebral Palsy with a range of physical and learning ability and some with associated visual impairments of varying degrees.
Which is the best AAC device?
There are many different devices on the market and each person requires an individual assessment to ascertain the most appropriate device, access method and software.
Will an iPad be enough?
iPads are excellent tools for fun activitiesand there are many communication apps available with switch and touch access. Robust casings and speakers can be purchased to enhance the use. However an iPad is not appropriate for everyone and communication skills need to be assessed fully. Some people will require a bigger screen, specific accessing, an integration between different communication software on the same device.
Will using AAC stop my child from ever talking?
There is no evidence to suggest that the use of AAC will delay speech. In practicet he use of AAC reduces a child's frustration, develops language skills and builds the child's confidence in communicating independently. The extent of the child's physical, learning or behavioural disability will limit the production of speech.
