We provide a range of alternative communication options for children with medical conditions that impact speech and language.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) provides alternative ways of communicating for children who have difficulty speaking naturally.

AAC can involve one or more of a number of methods of communicating, involving different levels of technology. Our therapists are trained in no-tech, low-tech and high-tech means of augmentative communication, and incorporate AAC into therapy sessions. We create functional communication goals to promote your child’s use of AAC at home, school and in the community.

AAC can help children with conditions including:

• Apraxia
• Autism
• Brain injury
• Cerebral palsy
• Craniofacial differences
• Metabolic and genetic conditions
• Stroke
• Other complex medical conditions that impact speech and language

Evaluation for AAC

We take a team approach to evaluating children with complex medical needs who may benefit from augmentative communication, to ensure they receive the most appropriate intervention. Our team includes a speech language pathologist who specializes in AAC, rehabilitation physician and occupational therapist.

When evaluating your child to determine a course of treatment, we consider your child’s:

• Speech and articulation skills
• Language
• Oral motor skills
• Cognitive skills
• Current means of communication
• Visual status
• Gross and fine motor skills
• Seating and positioning
• Sensory processing and modulation skills

The assessment team will recommend the appropriate intervention for your child, customized to meet his or her needs, with input from the family, school and outside therapists.

Common recommendations may include:

• Intensive episodes of speech therapy to target increase in natural speech production
• No-tech AAC, including the use of gestures or signs
• Low-tech AAC, including the use of a picture board
• High-tech AAC, including the use of speech generating devices (SGDs), which is the term used by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) as a funding category for durable medical equipment. Mounting for the SGDs will be determined by collaborating with the family on their needs and the needs of their child.